I’ve been gearing up for this weekend’s 2010 Photowalk at Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park. Photowalks are a wonderful opportunity for fellow photographers of all levels to come together and learn from one another in a very laid back and fun atmosphere. I’ve heard from many really nice people who will be joining, so cross your fingers for good weather and I think we’ll have fun, learn a thing or two from one another, and hopefully get some awesome photos while we’re at it. This is your chance to say, “Hey, what f-stop are you at right now? F8.0? 200 ISO? Oh, let me try that!”
Throughout the years I’ve had more than a handful of people ask me, “How do you go about asking someone if you can take their portrait?” I recognize not everyone is comfortable approaching a complete stranger with a camera in tow. I have found that a warm smile often times followed by light conversation can work wonders. Unfortunately, I’m one of the those people who has never had much luck mastering foreign language, so I’ve always relied upon body language and gesturing to communicate abroad. Simply motioning with your camera—as to say, “do you mind if I take your photograph?” and then waiting for a nod of approval can do the trick. If I’m fortunate enough to have a local guide with me I’ve often used him/her to help communicate my needs. Local guides truly can make a world of difference. In recent years I’ve also tried to share my image with my subjects by showing them on the camera’s viewer. This of course is incredibly well received by children, and if I’ve spent a lot of time with an adult, I will get their information and send them a print once I get home.
Here’s what I know doesn’t work: Don’t simply pull your camera out and stick it in your subjects face, take the shot, and walk away. Frankly, that’s the difference between being a good photographer and “bad” tourist. Good images come from putting our subjects at ease and allowing them to feel comfortable enough to be themselves and not feel exploited. I find it’s good practice to start asking friends and family. If you can’t ask them, you may have a harder time asking strangers. So get comfortable first, and then go out and start practicing with strangers at parades or public events. It gets easier with time.
The Contest:
Tomorrow, I’ll be announcing the winner of our Outdoor Photo Gear giveaway—some lucky person is going to walk away with a super cool new Black Rapid’s strap! So if you haven’t entered do so by clicking HERE and remember to check back tomorrow for the announcement.
Workshops:
I have one space available in my August Yellowstone workshop. If you’re interested in joining me this August then check out this link HERE to learn more about the workshop. I’m excited about the current participants, so you would be joining a really great group of people. We’re going to have a lot of fun!
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John, an excellent post about street photography, being approachable as a photographer and helping people overcome their apprehension of having their photo taken. It is all about respecting the subject and judicious use of the camera. Treat people with respect and dignity and you will mostly be treated in kind.
John, appreciate your comments. I have some photos of interesting people taken at public events. Some of them gave me permission and some did not because they were shots taken in context of an activity, dancing and that sort of thing. I am just learning the ropes, and need to know if there are any reasons I can not use those photos for my use, or to sell? Do I have to have written permission to use those photos?
Thanks!
Becky,
Written permission is always the safest route to go but the reality is very few photographers get model releases. If they are performing in a public setting then I would say you are very safe to use and/or sell their image but some clients might require a model release. Personally I don’t get model releases because much of my work doesn’t require it nor do I have clients that require model releases. I hope this was helpful. John