Alfonso Calero shares five essential photo tips for anyone looking to improve their street photography skills.
01 WHEN, WHERE, HOW? My 85mm lens sometimes allows me to shoot at a far enough distance not to be noticed when shooting a street scene. I like to spend about two to three hours wondering in the late afternoon when shadows are longer and the light is softer. Look for interesting backgrounds and wait for a person to walk past. If you work like this the person will feel more like they have entered your space rather than you entering theirs. It's a subtle but important point, and it will help you get better photos.
02 PERMISSION Sometimes I ask permission, sometimes I don't. If I feel the person is already seated or standing in the best spot for a shot I usually ask if they mind if I take a quick shot. Sometimes it helps if you offer to share the photo via email, Facebook, etc. I often go back to the same place and try to build a relationship with individuals and shoot another street portrait. Keep the space around them simple and not distracting. Remember to focus on their eyes. If you are in a public place you do not need to get the subjects' permission. If you feel a street scene frames better at a distance then that can be a good approach too. It's really up to you.
03 BODY LANGUAGE Most people don't mind you taking photos, but take the time to read the situation, particularly if you are travelling or in an unfamiliar culture. Be friendly and only bring the camera up to your eye when you are taking the shot. Explain yourself if asked and be genuine about your intentions.
04 CAMERA SETTINGS If you want your images to be sharp, make sure you choose a sufficiently fast shutter speed. The general rule is your shutter speed should be faster than your equivalent focal length. For example, for an 80mm (equivalent) lens, the shutter speed should be 1/80s or faster. Take into account this rule applies to stationary objects. If you're photographing someone riding through the frame on a bike, you'll need a faster shutter speed again if you want to freeze the action. When it comes to aperture I prefer to shoot with a shallow depth of field, in most cases around f/2.8.
05 BLENDING IN Try to blend into the crowd as much as possible. Darker clothing works well. Bright jackets and white runners don't! Avoid wearing jewellery or anything too flashy or showy. Finally, observe, relax and be very patient. You will be amazed what might reveal itself.
Alfonso Calero graduated from the Sydney Institute of Technology with an Associate Diploma in Photography in 2001 and has been professionally photographing fine art, food, portraits, landscapes and travel subjects ever since. He is the owner of a travel education and tours company that delivers workshops every Saturday morning in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Fremantle. One on one or small group sessions are also available. He also takes groups to Japan, Philippines, Spain and Tasmania once a year for 5, 10 and 14-day photography workshops.
