TECHNIQUES
Get into position, observe and press the shutter – street photography sounds simple, but there’s an art to capturing images with alasting impression
French photographer Robert Doisneau famously said, “The marvels of daily life are exciting; no movie director can arrange the unexpected that you find in the street.” And nowhere is this more true than in street photography – the streets bring people together who may not otherwise have crossed paths. Indeed, the most thrilling aspect of street photography lies in the unexpected combinations of people and their actions that come together fortuitously for the perfect shot.
Observing the way in which people interact is an important element of street photography, allowing you to capture people off-guard while going about their business. Walking the streets with a camera in hand and watching what’s happening around you is not just the best way to discover the city but also to practice your photographic skills. However, it is important to remain discreet when doing so.
Urban areas offer plenty of opportunities to capture images that celebrate everyday life. However, certain times of the day offer a greater potential for capturing catching situations, such as the end of working hours when people are heading to public transport. Events such as exhibitions, fashion shows and conventions also offer the opportunity to frame unique characters amid the hustle and bustle of the city.
Over the next few pages, we will cover everything you need to know about street photography. With pro advice from photographer Jamie Canning, we’ll cover everything from choosing the right gear to using your camera’s automatic modes to best effect. We’ll also look at remaining discreet when capturing authentic street scenes and respecting people’s privacy.
