Street Photography: Kicking off.
Street Photography: Kicking off.
I have started a new artistic endeavour recently, dipping into the world of street photography, or photography in general, but focusing primarily on capturing moments of life where people are.
It is exciting and challenging because there are several different challenges. From getting the correct light exposure, and figuring out if you want to use shutter or aperture settings, right up to getting over the timidity of taking pictures of people as you pass them, or as they do something interesting. That’s not even including the difficulty of composing the image correctly and even if you get all these things right, there is no chance that you might end up with an awful photo that did not look as good as you thought it was when you snapped it.
To begin with I found a number of places where I could get a sound piece of advice. I shall now lay out the general tips that many feel are the key elements of taking a street photo.
The Key Elements of a Good Street Photo.
Creating a popular street photo requires a blend of technical skills, artistic vision, and a keen sense of observation. Here are some key elements:
Interesting Subjects: Street photography is all about capturing the human condition. Look for interesting characters or individuals who stand out. It could be well-dressed people, lovers, pet owners, or anyone who catches your eye.
Composition: Good composition is essential in street photography. Look for patterns and repetition in the architecture and design of the city. Use these elements to create a visually pleasing image.
Timing: Street photography often involves capturing fleeting moments. This could be someone walking into a shaft of light, a bike coming around a corner, or an interaction between people. Patience and readiness are key.
Storytelling: The best street photos tell a story. It could be photos of people doing everyday activities or unique events that capture the essence of city life. The aim is to evoke emotion and connect with the viewer.
Lighting: Understanding and utilizing natural light can make a significant difference in your photos. The right lighting can add depth and drama to your images.
Perspective: Try shooting from different angles and perspectives. This can add a unique touch to your photos and make them stand out.
Authenticity: The photo should feel genuine and not staged. It should capture real moments and emotions.
I have tried a few excursions onto the streets to get into the practice. I have had a number of success. Let me clarify, that success for me as a picture taker is not that I have a photo that people all like and rave about online, but a picture that I am happy with and that I feel looks good and is interesting. Not that everyone will feel the same about my work, but I feel that it is important to make pictures that you enjoy looking at first and foremost.
I have included a small selection of my early efforts. I am looking to put together a Zine of my photos, but shall continue to snap, just to see what comes out in the end. I shall continue to share my journey with you.
Words and images are © Vincent S. Coster 2023