I.AM.VAGABOND - Street Photography Tips

Street Photography

What is Street Photography?

As with most things in photography the definition of street photography will vary depending on whom you ask.

For me, whatever catches my attention in a public place is potentially a subject for street photography. Obviously Studio shoots are not covered in this definition and neither are shots of mountains and rivers, trees and flowers, moon and stars (you get the idea!)
If you don’t agree with this you are more than welcome to try Google or Wikipedia.

Very next topic, I want to put past us, is whether it's legal to shoot (you know what I mean) people in public places.

Again, there are numerous websites and legal advice available for you to go through if you really want to read and educate yourself.
I am neither a lawyer nor have the resources to do an in-depth analysis of this complex topic.
So I will just say that you should read local laws applicable in your country.

For us here in America we give a lot of emphasis on freedom of expression and street photography is arguably a form of that. As long as you are legally in a public location and your subject is also in a public location and no one is asking you to put your camera down you should be ok. If the subject or a cop asks you to stop taking pictures, please be respectful at the least.

Ok, so now we can get to the actual reason why I started this article.
Well from my experience taking pictures on the streets of San Francisco Bay Area and Greater Los Angeles I wondered if it would help budding street photographers if I try to put in words all that I learned so far and mind you I consider myself a student and am learning every day.

Let’s get started.

#1. First of all, if you don't have a camera you can't really get a shot. Can you?

Try to carry your camera more often and in cases where you can't, you still have that smartphone don't you? Phone cameras have gotten better and if nothing they can be used to practice till you gain enough courage to carry your real camera on the streets.

Streets of LA - Los Angeles, CA
Photographer's Note: I shot this while going for lunch and it just happened that I had my camera with me that day. By the time I came back the sofa was gone.

#2. What good is that camera if you can't fire it up to take that shot before the subject disappears?

Know your camera and its settings. The reason being that on streets scene change at a fast pace and you don't want yourself fumbling with camera setting while that someone walks past you. So yes learn to shoot fast. Also, don't run out of memory if shooting digital or film if shooting film (what is film you may ask and I won’t judge you)

Catching the Skyline - San Francisco, CA
Photographer's Note: I had very little time to capture this shot while the girl still had her camera up.

#3. Street photography is mostly about telling a story and it often helps if you get close to the action.

I am not saying that there aren't great street shots from a distance, but I am just saying that more often than not, being close will get you a good chance of catching great action or story.

Life is Good - San Francisco, CA
Photographer's Note: Happy feeling conveyed by faces and body postures here might be difficult from a distance.

#4. Again telling a story is what this is about so look to find something that excites you.

It's self-defeating if you shoot things that don't excite you (unless you are forced to do a story you don't believe in and the results will show in such cases). As with shooting anything, be true to yourself. If something makes you jump up and get that camera out of its resting place go for it.

The Wait - Boston, MA
Photographer's Note: I liked this scene as it did have bright colors yet there was a sense of stillness and wait. It was not happy, but neither was it sad. Yet somehow it made you feel for the person.

#5. The biggest hurdle I faced was getting over the fact that I am taking pictures of people who may or may not like to be photographed.

Getting over is not always easy. If it bothers you a great deal, please don't hesitate to approach the subject and ask them for permission to shoot, but always know that someone knowing that you are shooting is not exactly same as when that someone is doing stuff not aware of the camera. You can still get great shots, though, but not the same.

Sounds of Subway - New York, NY
Photographer's Note: As soon as he saw my camera he got a bit conscious.

#6. Make yourself invisible. Well, at least, try to blend in and avoid undue attention.

There are simple things you can try like maybe dress like most folks on that street or like a tourist taking pictures of random stuff. If you are comfortable and experienced you can try shooting from hip or anywhere else except the eye, but mind you it needs practice and you may not be able to frame the shot that well. Oh, and keep those LCD display screens off.

Good old days - Barcelona, Spain
Photographer's Note: Why would anyone even think of distracting them from enjoying a lovely day at the square.

#7. Looking back can be a good thing.

Sometimes interesting things might be happening behind your back.

Looking around - Amsterdam, Holland
Photographer's Note: I felt like someone was watching me as soon as I passed that pole.

#8. Anticipate a scene.

Sometimes you can sense or judge an action that’s about to take place. During these times you can pre-focus at the center of the action and wait for the subjects to jump in the frame.

Star Struck - Hollywood, CA
Photographer's Note: This was rather easy. Hollywood Walk of Fame is always teeming with action.

#9. Know your routes.

It might be fun and exciting to get lost, but it may be harmful to your health if you wander into areas you would rather not.

Lost - Boston, MA
Photographer's Note: I waited for the man to come at the corner of the frame and he stopped there for a few seconds or so it seemed.

#10. Invest in some good street photography books.

..and the most important part, Read them.

Pissin' off Texas - Anchorage, AK

#11. Don't be self-aware.

You will have to forget that you are doing street photography and get over the fact that there may be people watching you. I will strongly add that no matter what you do, always be respectful of others. So please don't keep shooting if the subject is uncomfortable and/or wants you to stop.

Love is.. growing old together - Paris, France

#12. Just go for it.

Almost last, but definitely not the least and, in fact, this might be the most important tip. Unless you do it you will never know if it excites you and pushes you further to do even better or it's just not for you.

Balcony Life - Oahu, HI

I will give an extra one just cause you have been so good to go thru all 12 above!
This is applicable to almost everything you do in life: Practice to be happy and smile a lot... hey not that creepy kind, though.

Checkout some of these tips below:

Authentic Travel Tips | Road Trip Tips

Your Comments:

Unknown  |  March 7, 2016 at 12:19 AM
I really enjoyed this article. It inspires me to take my Mark II out around the city. I have been holding back because I hate my current lense... but so what? I should just go for it.

Mary Elizabeth Velarmino Francisco  |  March 7, 2016 at 12:56 AM
I like this especially the last extra one, practice to be happy and smile a lot. Thanks so much for sharing! :)

Anonymous  |  March 7, 2016 at 2:05 AM
My Nikon is sitting steady at my desk... i feel time to take it out after reading this article!

Richard Collett  |  March 7, 2016 at 7:14 AM
Great read man! I love urban photography and the hardest part is always getting over the self consciousness I feel in photographing on the streets, but you just have to go for it to get the best shots.

Unknown  |  March 7, 2016 at 7:52 AM
Thanks for sharing! I had always wondered about photographing strangers. I know that I personally, wouldn't like to have my picture taken without my knowledge or permission.

Ana De-Jesus  |  March 7, 2016 at 9:28 AM
It is official I need to go to Santa Monica and visit the street art because their street art scene is fab! I love that art installation.

Joanna  |  March 7, 2016 at 9:39 AM
I love street photography. It's always good to have a good lens with a long zoom and try to capture closeup moments when without the subjects seeing you. Those are the best pictures!

Unknown  |  March 7, 2016 at 12:17 PM
I love getting outin the cities in the early mornings and taking streetscapes before they fill up with people

Unknown  |  March 7, 2016 at 12:47 PM
Thanks for your post! I'm going to give cameras to my children when were in Japan to see what they come up with.... Great photos by the way!

Unknown  |  March 7, 2016 at 8:52 PM
Nice post

Anonymous  |  March 7, 2016 at 10:48 PM
Nice article. I am gonna try street photography soon ....

krystle cook  |  March 8, 2016 at 7:55 AM
I always feel weird taking picture of people without them knowing. It's different though if I don't feel like they are the focus of the picture.

Unknown  |  March 8, 2016 at 8:57 AM
Wow! These are some very interesting pictures. I have always wanted to be a good photographer. I love seeing great work like this.

Sundragonlady Choi  |  March 8, 2016 at 10:06 AM
Great post and reminder to always have some sort of way to capture a moment before it passes. Cameras are awesome for that. I find myself using my phone a ton. Great photo captures as well. They truly speak for themselves. ;)

Celeste Choi  |  March 8, 2016 at 10:49 AM
I love giving the camera to my kids and letting them have fun with it. I am so amazed by the captures they decided to capture. Sometimes their view of life is eye opening. Thanks for sharing.

Barbara Bovio  |  March 8, 2016 at 10:49 AM
What amazing trips you did in Us and great topics about photography that I have to put on my mind for my next post!

Nina & Ellie Alexander  |  March 8, 2016 at 10:54 AM
You've actually inspired me to give this a go and try to take some more pictures on the streets :) I hope I will manage to capture the moment! Nina Alexander | http://followthesisters.com

Heart2Art  |  March 8, 2016 at 1:30 PM
I really enjoyed this article. What great tips. You have inspired me to give it a go myself. After all, they say a picture is worth a thousand words.

Unknown  |  March 8, 2016 at 2:50 PM
I worry about taking photos where people who don't want to be in the shot are in it too. But great post loads of tips , will have to go for a walk around Dublin with my camera now :)

Karen  |  March 8, 2016 at 4:42 PM
I live out in a rural area in the upper plains. Never thought about street photography before, but your photos in the post each tell a fantastic story. Love it.

Unknown  |  March 8, 2016 at 7:03 PM
You have helped me to get over many hesitations in photography and inspired me to take the road less travelled. Thank you for sharing your post.

Unknown  |  March 8, 2016 at 8:46 PM
I love street photography. The pictures say a lot and you have the opportunity to work your imagination and either build a story or try to understand the story that is going on. I enjoyed every bit of the pictures in this post, gives me an insight of life in your side of the world.

Dunja  |  March 9, 2016 at 1:36 AM
Great post! I love taking photos, i'm not a photographer or anything but these tips were still very useful!

howtodiyempire  |  March 10, 2016 at 2:06 AM
I love street photography!

Anshula  |  March 10, 2016 at 9:47 AM
I love this post! I'm obsessed with street photography, but I often shy away from it because of strange looks from people. These tips are super helpful!

Corinna  |  March 10, 2016 at 9:51 AM
Great read! I'm just a hobby picture-taker but I appreciate the tips you've given. I think the biggest thing for me would be dealing with those who don't want to be photographed. Thanks!

Wanderlust and Dogs  |  March 10, 2016 at 10:39 AM
hehe, I love your disclaimer after the word "shoot". Just today a band I "shoot" for posted one of the photos on instagram and I commented that I was bummed they wouldnt be back near me this tour and that I was itching to get out and shoot with them again. I guess the word shoot in offensive because someone promptly commented and told me I should really rephrase. I can only assume that was the part they didnt like?!

Sarah  |  March 10, 2016 at 10:51 AM
This is a great article. I am thinking about buying a camera even though I already have a pretty good one on my Nexus 6. The pictures in the post are really good too!

Flo*  |  March 10, 2016 at 11:03 AM
Yees!! So glad I found your article :) I'm starting with street photography... Thank you for all these tips!!

gladys  |  March 10, 2016 at 11:21 AM
Great article. I could definitely use some of my own photography in my blog. I think street photography might be a great new hobby to try. Thanks.

Majid Ak  |  March 10, 2016 at 8:16 PM
Oh ! I haven't similar with street photography, but this article made me.

Unknown  |  March 10, 2016 at 8:22 PM
Great read! I'm more into nature photography and I've been debating trying out some street photography. This article gives me hope! I need to just muster up the confidence... That's my biggest problem too, dealing with people, especially those who don't want their picture taken. Thanks for posting!

Brianna George  |  March 10, 2016 at 9:13 PM
this is probably my favorite kind of photography. :)

Desiree Crowley  |  March 10, 2016 at 9:15 PM
amazing tips! I wish I knew a little more photography as a blogger myself! Thanks for sharing

Kimberly  |  March 11, 2016 at 1:37 AM
Fantastic tips, I know I get self concious when taking street photos and always just try and do it fast but they end up terrible, out of focus etc.

Pranshu Nigam  |  March 11, 2016 at 7:48 AM
I am seriously inspired by these tips since I do not have much interest in photography, and I think that must be the reason why I end up searching the entire Internet to get relevant pics. Thanks for sharing!

katie  |  March 12, 2016 at 11:39 PM
Im not much of a photographer myself but these pictures are wonderful. Beauty always happens when you least expect it.

jjhgh  |  March 13, 2016 at 12:07 AM
Thanks for the tips. I just bought my first DSLR camera and I have an interest in learning more about photography. Great Post!

Mini Noms  |  March 13, 2016 at 12:28 AM
I liked #8 tip..That's useful in most of the times ..

lauraxloves  |  March 13, 2016 at 1:53 AM
Thanks for the great tips! Inspires me to get out there and start snapping x

Erika A.  |  March 13, 2016 at 3:26 AM
Nice post! I love street photography. http://www.makeupfun.it

Unknown  |  March 13, 2016 at 9:52 AM
Living in Scotland, the best shots you can get is of our lovely scenery. Love your post, one of the reasons why I love visiting the US!

OpenYourEyes  |  March 13, 2016 at 12:10 PM
Great post! thanks for sharing. I am very much into street photography lately, and I totally agree with all your points, especially when it comes to anticipating a scene!! :)

Gecca  |  March 13, 2016 at 6:22 PM
I just love photography especially when you take it out on the street and just photograph random people. Thanks for the tips!

Unknown  |  March 14, 2016 at 12:42 PM
I am obsessed with street photography. I don't capture it myself very well ... a skill I am working on! These are some fantastic tips

Ami Rose  |  March 15, 2016 at 4:48 AM
This is such and informative post. It's really inspired me to get my camera out and start snapping! Ami xxx

Kerr  |  March 15, 2016 at 8:19 AM
I just came back from a trip to wynnwood in Miami and it was heaven from street photography planning on going back with a better camera to take some awesome pictes

The travel Fool  |  March 28, 2016 at 10:12 AM
Some good tips here. I am a little hesitant taking a photo of someone where they are the focus of the shot without their permission. Not sure on the legality of it.

Eulanda Shead  |  March 30, 2016 at 10:37 AM
It so true about knowing your camera and its settings. Before you know it, you've missed the moment while fiddling with your aperture, lol! 2nd time at this, hopefully it will show?

Unknown  |  March 31, 2016 at 5:09 PM
This is an excellent article, Vik. Many thanks. I will be featuring it on my FB post sometime in the future, as I don't see many "how to" photography posts around.

Unknown  |  March 31, 2016 at 5:45 PM
Vik, This is an excellent post with some solid information. Nice work! I will be putting this link on one of my future PitchTravelWrite.com posts. Thank you.

Unknown  |  May 10, 2016 at 7:08 AM
Great tips! #2 is an obvious but really valuable tip! I've missed a few great photos that way. :(

shah  |  May 23, 2016 at 11:40 PM
nice article! really informative. thanks for sharing with us. keep this blog update

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For my part, I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel's sake. The great affair is to move.
- Robert Louis Stevenson

All the pathos and irony of leaving one's youth behind is thus implicit in every joyous moment of travel: one knows that the first joy can never be recovered, and the wise traveler learns not to repeat successes but tries new places all the time.
- Paul Fussell

I am Vagabond