So I’ve been shooting street for a few months now. It has been very exciting and rewarding. It truly is amazing what you see and feel if you just take the time to look and see. Hanging out of Flickr I have found some really inspired street photographers who’s images really tell a story and have that unique urban beauty. Each image is a point in time never to be duplicated.
The Occupy Wallstreet movement has been a lot of fun and interesting. I like to talk to people out on the streets. One thing I can say is that the media spins things any way they want, so if you really want to get the straight story, you really need to get as close to the story as possible. Talk to people and make up your own mind.
So what are some things that I have learned?
Always take your camera with you.
It has been said many times but it is true. So, don’t think about it just grab your camera and if you do ask yourself if you should bring your camera, just do it. It took a while for me to program myself to do this but it pays off big.
Take the time to shoot
I’ve gotten some nice shots on my way to and from the train station and at lunch. We’re talking 15-20 minutes here and there. Feels good and keeps you on your game.
Make sure your camera is set for the first shot.
I missed a shot because I had my camera in self timer mode for some group shots I took over the weekend. It took me a while to figure out what was going on as well.
Take a Test Shot
It is easy to be a little sheepish until you get close and fire that first shot for the day. So get it over with. Get in there close and personal even though you know it’s not going to be a keeper.
Enjoy the Walk
Street photography can be a lot like fishing. You never know if you are going to capture something or not. I had a period where I felt like I was hunting down images and felt bad when I came back empty. Enjoy the walk and appreciate the moment. You always win if you are enjoying yourself. Photography is supposed to be fun right?
Smaller Camera and Glass
The weather here inChicagois getting cruddy so I decided to use my D50 and a 50mm f/1.4 just incase I fall on my ass. I don’t want to risk my main gear, plus it is always stays in my commuter bag. What did I find? People perceive you in a less suspicious way. They really don’t react much at all. With my D300 and 17 -50 lens, I get inquisitive looks like they might get in the evening paper or find themselves on a bill board. Its been an interesting experiment to say the least.
So here are a few shots that I like. You can see them at Flickr on the Streettog222 photo stream.
Keep shooting!