In the first part, we have listed some important points in mastering street photography. Now, we are going to go one by one, with some additions…
So, how to overcome the fear? First, you have to know a few facts. Street is a public space and you have the right to take photos as you like. If someone does not wish to be photographed, he can express his wish, and you will delete his photo. Remember, your job is not “stealing” photos, but preserving the documents of life during your tenure on the planet Earth.
If you come across a nervous person with aggressive behavior, just calm things down, apologize and delete the controversial photo. If he allows discussion, explain to him what are you doing and why. If not, just continue walking and let him/her be. There are people who are simply not worth talking to.
Punch Ball (Canon 60D, ISO3200, EFs 18-55mm, f3.5-5.6 @18mm, 1/30 sec, f4.5)
The main skill you should upgrade is — of course — communication skill. Here is a simple advice: Do not desperately try to get “sneaky” photos. Show your camera and your intentions to use it. Then, many good things can happened. Majority of people will accept your presence, and very soon stop paying attention, which will allow you to get those unposed, spontaneous life shots.
Not only that. You will attract people who would like to be photographed. And they are, by the rule of thumb, most interesting you can ever wish. It’s not only costumed people who are advertising some corporation, or street performers. You can find kids with their boards, roller skates, or guys who love to show off their acrobatic skills…
Street Acrobat (Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3, ISO160, 14-42mm, f3.5-5.6 @14mm, 1/800 sec, f3.5)
Anything can happen when you show your camera, therefore…
It is reasonable for you to find a decent camera that is small, quiet, discreet, and has fairly speedy AF for the street shooting. But you will get no use of the best camera in the world, if you do not have it ready to shoot. Have it ALWAYS ready. Even if you just holding it casually in your hand, let it be ready to fire without even looking into the frame. Yes, it may take 100 shots to have one good with that technique, but that one is usually worth it. We live in a digital age. Now you can easily afford to miss 100 shots for one good :)
Now, if you nail that one as it should, you can get that unposed, natural look of the people in that unique and unrepeatable moment of life…
Young Gentleman (Canon G10, ISO80, 6.1mm (28mm equiv.), 1/500 sec, f2.8, -1 EV)
“Hey, all your photos are in color! Wouldn't it be better if they were black&white?”
OK, there will be more parts to this class, so please be patient. Patience is one of the most important characteristics of a good street photographer 😊
