Close approach on people

[shadowfox]

This thread is wonderful because it opens up an aspect of photography that most dismissed or oblivious to.

Getting to know people is a *big* part of why I like photography so much.
People whom I wouldn't even meet otherwise.

I always introduce myself as a photographer, and qualifying when situations allow that I like to document old ways of life.

After which, it usually is my turn to be surprised at how open people are once they know what I'm about. It helped a lot in de-mystifying people's life for me, and for those whom I share the story with.

And I find that people absolutely *loved* a print of themselves or their loved ones, when it's done in B&W wet-print. Numerous times they commented on how different it looked, and when I described to them the process -- which they always ask -- they appreciate it even more.

This is why sometimes when I read some here who proclaimed that "all that matters are the final image" I feel the sudden urge to get more coffee 🙂

 

[Paul Luscher]

Generally, I don't ask for permission. The essence of street photography, in my opinion, is about spontaneity. It's all about the Decisive Moment--when all the element in a scene come together in such a way as to "tell the story, " so to speak.

Catching that kind of fleeting instant is hard enough in the first place, so asking for permission first totally destroys any chances of getting that moment. First of all , the moment is gone, and by asking permission, you've lost the spontaneity of people acting without being conscious of your presence.

Shoot first, ask questions later, that's my motto...

 

[starless]

I agree with this interpretation of Capa's famous remark. The key aspect in Gabor's explanation is how we act out the "close" factor. This differs in my experience, depending on the type of people or person and the situation. But this sense of 'closeness' does not change, even though it is demonstrated differently.

I don't agree with this interpretation. I think Capa meant get closer physically. Get dirty, get in the thick of it. And so he did during his years as a war photographer.

There is no correct approach. Every photographer has their own approach which works for them.

For example, most of HCB's shots were of random people in the streets, with which he had no verbal or non-verbal communication. He was even trying to conceal the camera in a handkerchief or in his clothes in order not to get noticed.

 

[Dr Gaspar]

Generally, I don't ask for permission. The essence of street photography, in my opinion, is about spontaneity. It's all about the Decisive Moment--when all the element in a scene come together in such a way as to "tell the story, " so to speak.

Catching that kind of fleeting instant is hard enough in the first place, so asking for permission first totally destroys any chances of getting that moment. First of all , the moment is gone, and by asking permission, you've lost the spontaneity of people acting without being conscious of your presence.

Shoot first, ask questions later, that's my motto...

I agree with you, partially, Paul. I know every photographer has their ways, and I'm not here to change someone's mind, at all.

I think about this in two ways. One, is just taking in consideration the photo and nothing else. Which is alright. You catch the moment, you have a great photo. The job is done.

But sometimes, if you get to know the person, be around them, they won't lose the spontaneity, and you'll be able to work freely around them, which could also lead you to a great capture.

I'm just saying that it's not asking for permission or not asking for permission. There are other ways.

To each their own of course!

Cheers!

 

[GSNfan]

This is tricky, while it makes sense to talk, at the same time by that act of talking you ask for the attention of people. On the other hand, if you just casually shoot, people soon lose interest and carry on the way the were.

Its a lot better to act like a nobody tourist interested in pictures than some fake PJ trying to tell their story.

 

[dave lackey]

This is tricky, while it makes sense to talk, at the same time by that act of talking you ask for the attention of people. On the other hand, if you just casually shoot, people soon lose interest and carry on the way the were.

Its a lot better to act like a nobody tourist interested in pictures than some fake PJ trying to tell their story.

Ha! Just as there is no ONE camera or other gear for everything, neither is there just one way for using said gear. Acting like a tourist may work in a tourist city or a large metropolitan city, but it only draws unwanted attention if you are small town America. That unwanted attention will certainly draw the local law enforcement folks to you.

Paranoia is rampant. Try walking around a small town with a camera snapping photos of strangers and you better have bail money available.😛 Or bullet-proof underwear.

 

[GSNfan]

Ha! Just as there is no ONE camera or other gear for everything, neither is there just one way for using said gear. Acting like a tourist may work in a tourist city or a large metropolitan city, but it only draws unwanted attention if you are small town America. That unwanted attention will certainly draw the local law enforcement folks to you.

Paranoia is rampant. Try walking around a small town with a camera snapping photos of strangers and you better have bail money available.😛 Or bullet-proof underwear.

Indeed, a very intelligent observation.