I absolutely love Street Photography! There is something about taking images of the present moment and capturing the essence of what places and people look like right now. Think about even 20 years ago- how much fun it is to see how a town has changed or how people dressed.
Street photography is an exciting genre that captures the essence of everyday life in public places.
I am just starting on my journey of Street Photography and learning along the way as well. This is my first article on this site- I’m super excited to share this passion with you.
So- here are Ten Essential Street Photography Tips for you to begin your adventures in Street Photography.
Be Genuinely Interested in People
Street photography can be done with or without people. However, If you want to photograph people, it helps to actually be interested in what they are doing. Or who they are. If you are not much of a people person, then it will make it more difficult to approach them when you want to take their portrait. A general consensus is that you can photograph people in public. (I never photograph kids though- that’s just me). Being a parent, I never would have appreciated a random stranger taking pictures of them. You just have to use common sense. 😊
Main idea here – the better you are with people and the more you care, the better your pictures will be. At first, I was a bit shy about asking people. I do have strangers telling me no now and then- but for the most part so far, I’ve had a lot of luck. I have even had people pose for me w/out me even asking. Technically, you can take pictures of people w/out their permission- I like to ask though.
Be mindful of people’s privacy and cultural differences. If someone seems uncomfortable or asks not to be photographed, then it’s best to respect their wishes.
In some places, it may be best to ask for permission before taking someone’s photo. Try to use your best judgment.
Take a Photo Walk
I love walking and love photography. If this is you as well, then why not combine your Photography with a walk? This takes the pressure out of “having to take that stunning image of the day” out of your head. I will throw some water in my pack, put on my tennis shoes and head out with my camera. I feel so relaxed as I’m walking because there’s also plenty of time to just look around. I guarantee you will see things that you never noticed before.
For instance, the picture I have on this site of the swinging chair off of the Billboard sign. All the times I drove by this sign I never noticed it. Who would have ever thought there would be a swinging bench from a BillBoard? 😂 Here is an image I took of the Historic District in Twin Falls, ID. I am from this place- and never truly experienced or appreciated this area until I took pictures of it.
Know & Have the Best Camera
If you have a new camera, then take time to learn it before you head out. Know what type of images you want to capture so your camera is ready.
While I was in ID visiting family, I had three instances of wildlife showing up in my images while I was taking pictures of the landscape. One was a Beaver crossing the River- and unfortunately I did not catch it in time. Now, I know this isn’t “street” photography, but still a relevant example.
Get familiar with your camera settings and understand how to quickly adjust the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. This helps you react quickly to changing scenes. Nothing is more frustrating than to miss getting a great photo because you can’t get your camera set in time.
For Street Photography, do your best to use a small, unobtrusive camera. Mirrorless cameras or compact cameras are ideal for street photography as they draw less attention. If you’re walking around in certain neighborhoods for instance, you may not want to be flashing an expensive camera. I often find that the more interesting scenes are in the older neighborhoods. There is more character and signs of real life- real people. I use my Pocket 3 a lot for this reason- you can’t even tell I am carrying a camera.
Understand the Light
Photography is ALL about light. Most photographers agree that two of the best times of day for photography are sunset and sunrise. The early morning or late afternoon light is often ideal for street photography, providing soft and interesting shadows.
There are exceptions though- and these two times of the day don’t necessarily mean that’s the only time you should shoot. If you study the mid day lighting – and know the type of image you want to produce, then you can go take images during the middle of the day. With the harsh afternoon sun, you can get deep shadows and strong contrasts.
As far I have learned though- with Street Photography you always want to use natural light. It’s about the authenticity of the moment and capturing what is. If you are bringing flashes, and a lighting set up with you- then to me, this isn’t real Street Photography.
Always Have Your Camera with You
Have you heard that saying- the best camera is the one you have with you? This is so true! How many times have you been in a situation where you wanted to take a picture, but didn’t have your camera? This has happened to me- and I get so frustrated because I know this rule! Again- this is why having a smaller camera is better. If it’s lighter and more portable, then you’re more likely to take it.
With the AZ Heat, I can’t leave my equipment in my car. I also don’t want to take the chance of it getting stolen. If you have a camera that you can tuck into your purse or man bag, then you’re more likely to always have it on you. In my opinion, the best photographers are consistently on the lookout for a good image. They can happen anywhere and at any time- you want to be ready!
So- take your camera everywhere and shoot regularly. The more you practice, the better you’ll get at noticing and capturing interesting moments.
Be Patient and Observant
There may be days where you are challenged in finding suitable images- or you may have a certain place in mind that needs the right subject. Either way, you need to practice patience. Like Guns N Roses says, “All we Need is Just a Little Patience”.
I’m learning that if I go out and photograph for several hours and not take pictures that I liked, it doesn’t mean I’m a crappy photographer. Street photography involves being in the right place and at the right time. Being observant -and more than other people.
There is a concept called the “Decisive Moment”. This is where all the right elements come together. Perhaps there is a certain spot you are waiting for a person or group of people to come into the scene. It can take a while for this to happen. Let’s say you come across a sign that has the word Bird in it. Chances are, if you sit and wait a Bird will land on the sign. Or- maybe there is a section of a sidewalk where skateboarders go. You have to sit and wait patiently for one to show up. Be sure your shutter speed is set high enough to capture the action!
Interesting moments often develop if you are patient. Anticipate action and be ready to capture the decisive moment.
Shoot with Purpose
This tip has helped me a lot. Before, I would just go out and photograph with no particular project or theme in mind. I felt overwhelmed and never took any images that I liked. It helps to know what type of images you want to get before stepping out the door.
For instance- the projects I am working on right now give me direction and focus rather than being all over the place.
Some of my specific projects I have right now include my 50/50 (black and white), the color yellow, & 52-3 (52 color images w/my pocket 3). I realize the 52-3 project is pretty broad, but I am figuring out this camera still. I am also drawn to urban nature/landscapes.
For one of my most recent shoots in my home town- I decided to shoot in color- and photograph the graffiti/art, doors and windows on the old buildings.
Some Questions to ask-
- Do you want to shoot in B&W or in color?
- Do you want the end result to be a photo essay/collection of 12 + more images?
- What theme are you going for?
- Silhouettes, shadows, signs or all 3?
- People or no people?
These questions can go on and on..but I wanted to give you an idea of what you should be thinking about before you go shoot. You’ll find that you’re drawn to certain elements that will be evident the more your photograph. So far, I’ve noticed I like to take pictures of bikes! haha
Keep a Positive and Flexible Mindset
Getting good at Street Photography takes time and practice. I included this tip because I have beat myself up a little bit for those times I spent hours walking around and didn’t take anything that I liked. Part of Street Photography is the willingness to learn and accept that there may be times where you shoot nothing significant.
If you truly love Street Photography- then look at each time you venture out as an experience unto itself. You are doing what you love- and this is what truly matters!
Shoot in Black and White
In my opinion, shooting in Black and White will make you a better photographer. With the absence of color, there are more skills required in capturing contrast, textures, shapes, form, and lighting.
I enjoy shooting in Black and White- but I find it challenging. I will go on a shoot with the goal of photographing in B&W for my photo walks, only to switch it from Monochrome to color. I am still figuring out why this is so…
Perhaps it’s because we see in color- so it can be difficult to envision what something looks like in B&W. I currently have a project on this site called 50/50; I’m taking 50 B&W’s w/ my 50mm lens. So far- the images are alright. I have a long way to go – but I’m okay with this.
If you’re a beginner- it’s very important to understand the relationship between your shutter speed, aperture, ISO and depth of field. The settings on these features determine the amount of light that comes through the lens of your camera.
If you have too much light that comes in- your image will be over exposed. And Vice-Versa- if you have not enough light, your image will be under exposed.
Break the Rules
Okay, learn the rules- but also, don’t be afraid of breaking them. Goodness- there are so many darn rules that photographers are taught to follow. Here are some of them:
- -Apply the Rule of Thirds
- -Don’t chop off limbs
- -Keep Horizon Straight
- -Avoid mid day sun
- -Minimize noise/grain
- -Avoid extreme contrast
- -Don’t shoot into the light
So- these are some of the main ones, but I’m sure there are more. One of my mantras is- Progress, not perfection. If you are so focused on not breaking these rules, it could inhibit your creativity and keep you from experimenting. Which in my opinion, plays a huge role in improving.
There are photographers who are very well known, like – William Klein and Daido Moriyama who break these rules.
Experiment with different perspectives, angles, and techniques. Don’t be afraid to break the rules and develop your own style.
Essential Street Photography Summary
These 10 Tips on Street Photography for Beginners will give you a great head start. In review, You need to genuinely like people- and not be afraid of taking their pictures. Ask first if it makes you more comfortable. Know your camera settings so you’re ready for that once in a lifetime shot. Understand the light, carry your camera with you always, go for long photo walks, shoot with a purpose, don’t be afraid to break the rules, B&W photography can move you out of your comfort zone, and stay positive and patient!
By following these tips and continuously practicing, you’ll improve your skills and develop a keen eye for street photography. Happy shooting!