Street Photography Misconceptions
Street photography has gained popularity over the years in part due to social media but also because at least in my opinion, it has the lowest barrier to entry for beginners. When I used to run workshops, I found that many people had certain observations about this genre that were not necessarily true. In this blog I will cover some of the biggest ones.
Faces
The first misconception is that street photography must include visible people. Often you see street photography as gritty, in your face and showing every character in full detail. This is simply a style and not a given for the genre. Personally I try to minimise visible people in my photography and only keep a human element for scale and to fill the frame. Some photographers shove their cameras in peoples faces and even fire flashes. I personally find this disrespectful and although sometimes having a recognisable face can really elevate an image, just try to do so in a respectful way.
People
You also don’t have to include any people at all. Street photography is about capturing life in an urban environment and although people play a major role, they are not the only subjects of interest. Also in some parts of the world, photographing people is outright banned. So then what? Instead of people, focus on light, on texture, architecture, transportation and try to convey the feeling of being there. Of course having at least some human element is helpful, but not necessary.
Specific Gear
You’re not a real street photographer if you don’t use a Leica rangefinder. You’re not a real street photographer if you don’t use a prime lens. You’re not a real street photographer if you don’t use a film camera. You’re not a real street photographer if you don’t use a 28mm, 35mm or 50mm lens. Over the years I’ve heard it all. Ignore what everyone says and if you want to shoot with a Sony and a 24-70 then go ahead. You do not need specific cameras, formats or focal lengths to ‘fit in’. Some of my favourite street shots were taken on my iPhone.
Big City
Most street photography you see online will be coming out of either New York, London or Tokyo. Sure you have plenty more photographers in other cities but generally big cities seem to be where all this is happening. However you don’t need to be in any of these to shoot this genre. Matter of fact you don’t even need to be in any city. My favourite shooting locations are small seaside towns and villages. Of course having a photogenic location is not necessary but extremely beneficial. There is no getting round the fact that shooting in Paris will yield more results than in Ipswich. So although having large cities can help, it’s not a prerequisite and in many cases, smaller quieter towns can provide ample opportunities too.
Extraversion
Street photography will naturally involve dealing with people. Be it asking for a portrait, interacting with your subjects or even defending your actions. One would think that this genre is exclusively for extraverted individuals who are great with people. However it’s not really true. Matter of fact most street photographers I know are actually introverts. Of course if you want to shoot wide angle and really get into the scene, then having people skills is critical. However if you prefer to be a fly on the wall and shoot at a longer focal lengths, then you don’t need to be an extrovert at all. I would caveat this with saying that having some people skills and emotional intelligence is a must. Being able to read the situation and other people is important.
