Street Photographers at Monas Survive in the Era of Advanced Smartphone Cameras

Jakarta – Despite the growing sophistication of smartphone cameras, the services of street photographers operating in the National Monument (Monas) area of Jakarta have not been entirely abandoned.

At a rate of Rp 20,000 per printed photograph, several visitors admitted they remain interested in using such services, particularly to capture moments of togetherness.

On Friday (27 February 2026), Kompas.com spoke with several visitors who had just been photographed by street photographers in the Monas courtyard.

Dewi, 29, a resident of Depok, came with two friends. They initially were simply strolling around the Monas area. However, when a photographer offered his services, they did not refuse.

“I was just photographed by the gentleman, so we went ahead with it. We rarely come here as a group of three,” said Dewi.

According to her, despite carrying a personal smartphone, the results from a DSLR camera looked better, particularly in terms of lighting and composition.

“When using a phone, sometimes the photo is cut off or dark. With this, the Monas is clearly visible,” she noted.

Dewi paid Rp 20,000 for one standard-sized printed photograph. She considered the price reasonable for an iconic tourist location like Monas.

“It’s still okay at Rp 20,000. The photo is ready immediately, no waiting,” said Dewi.

“When there’s a big group and we want a photo together, I usually use this service. It’s awkward to ask someone else to take the picture,” she added.

For Dewi, printed photographs held particular sentimental value compared to digital files on a mobile phone.

“Printed photos feel more meaningful. You can keep them. With a phone, you often forget about them,” she explained.

A similar view was expressed by Fajar, 29, a resident of Tangerang, who came with his wife and child. He admitted he had not originally planned to use a street photographer’s services.