How to Shoot Street Photography with Confidence
- csshop0
- 18 minutes ago
- 4 min read
I'm a huge fan of street photography when shooting on film, no matter where I am in the world. It gives you a look into someone else's life in an unfiltered way. Plus, the beauty is that you never truly know what you're going to shoot.
But if you're new to street photography it can understandably feel daunting and make you feel awkward thrusting a camera into the path of a stranger. If you've ever hesitated to lift your camera before you're not alone, but overcoming it and building your confidence is key to enjoying the process and upping your street photography game.
I've compiled a handful of tips that I've used, along with advice from other photographers to help you get started!
1.Are You A Fisherman or A Shark
I recently attended the Photography & Video Show in London and had the pleasure of going to a talk by Leon Neal of Getty Images.
He's a hugely talented photographer, known for his gritty storytelling and striking images. He shared a great piece of advice about street photography that I won't ever forget.
Leon shared, "Sharks cover as much ground as possible and keep moving to get a wide variety of shots. Whereas fishermen find a spot that's going to be good pickings, you stop and wait and see what you can get. It takes time, but works when it happens".
He also added, "don't expect to strike gold everyday. It makes the moment better when you do".
So, when you're next out and about, why not try each method and see what feels more natural to you?
2.Start Simple and Stay Observant
You don't have to dive straight in to getting up close portrait shots and asking for permission to begin with, and actually, you don't ever have to get this up close and personal anyway.
Start with scenes, shadows, silhouettes and even shooting scenes of people from behind. Photograph interesting architecture, someone sitting on a bench, or even just reflections in windows.
The quieter moments are a great starting point, and getting out early or late in the day when it's not so busy can help ease you into it.
Shoot With A Group
At FilmProcessing we've hosted a couple of photowalks now and one thing that so many of our walkers said was that being in a group made them more confident to practice street photography.
Pack mentality works! If you're joined with one other or a handful of other people with cameras it can feel intentional and like you're part of something which can help to overcome those nerves of getting your camera out in a busy place.
Whether it's an organised photowalk or getting a friend involved for a day of photography, I think this is one of the best ways to start building confidence up.
4.Be Honest & Respectful AND Keep It Real!
In most countries it's legal to take photos in public places, but it doesn't always mean it's welcome.
One of our followers, @lloydy110 said "be open about what you are doing, don't hide and most importantly, be ethical'.
You may feel like hiding away, but by being honest you're being respectful to the people you're shooting, and where you're shooting. This will make you feel more confident about pointing and shooting on the go.
Leon agreed and added, "treat people with respect. If someone's down on their luck, don't add to their problems. Never pose or manipulate a moment, either in person or in the edit. Keep it real".
5.Walk With Purpose
Body language makes a huge difference here and confidence often comes from intention. Stand tall and move through the streets like you belong there, and don't forget to smile! @captured_on_35mm said, "keep a smile on your face, but not a creepy one!".
Avoid sudden stops of frantic movements, people notice uncertainty more than the camera itself. We loved @thomaselliottmedia suggestion, "use a REALLY big camera to catch everyone's attention, and snap a photo".
Yes, you'll draw more attention to yourself, but that intrigue from walkers going about their daily lives could spark some really interesting photos!
6.Practice Often
It might seem obvious, but practice really makes perfect! Swallow the frog and get out there and start building confidence with street photography.
Confidence builds with repetition. The more you go out, the more comfortable you’ll become. Try short sessions at first, 20 or 30 minutes, so it doesn’t feel like a big production.
You don't even have to have the full intention to do just street photography, carry your camera wherever you go and if an opportunity presents itself, go for it. Carrying lighter camera gear might be a good idea for this option!
7.Don't Overthink People's Reactions
Most people don’t even notice you’re taking photos. If they do, a simple nod or smile can go a long way.
If someone seems uncomfortable, it’s okay to lower your camera and move on. You’re not doing anything wrong, but it’s good to stay respectful.
Taking your time is just as important! @vision3olu shared, "don't be afraid to take multiple shots of the same scene to get the perfect one".
Street photography is a mix of awareness, patience and a little bit of guts to begin with, but the right location and timing can achieve some incredible results.
Are you a fan of street photography? Please share your favourite tips in the comments below of things you've found that have really helped.
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