As for the unwarranted praise that street photography receives; I have not noticed this, but then again, when I’m viewing photos, I’m doing just that, not really reading any of the comments that may or may not follow below.
Moreover, since I don’t ask for critique, I don’t give it either…I think that only fair. As such, I don’t really muck about in critique-based forums. This said, I’ve heard folks in various forums complain that praise and compliments are excessively dispensed, so this problem is not unique to street photography.
In general…
Street photography doesn’t even necessitates a human subject. But if focusing on the purpose of the candid, one aspect to consider is timing. Often, the opportune photograph materializes and dissolves nearly instantly…that whole decisive moment thing. Consequently, consent beforehand is not possible.
If folks are burning out on the decisive moment thing, that’s OK, except again, one can say that about every other type of photography, particularly given the number of photos generated on a per second basis across the globe.
As for the ethics of candid photography, it’s a personal choice. I follow my own limitations, whereby I pretty much apply the golden rule…would I want to be photographed doing that or being in that particular condition. However, I typically wouldn’t impose these restrictions on other photographers.
These street photography bashing threads are relatively common, which is fine, but I never seem to receive an alternative recommendation that doesn’t face the same flaws. No one has yet to impress me with a new exciting route, not even close.
Then again, I’m pretty much stuck on stuff from say the late 1920s to early 1970s, which is really no different than someone who prefers classical music from centuries back; there’s no rule that we all need to shove to the front.
And really, so much of this often comes down to arguing that the color blue is better than the color red; thanks, you’ve got your things, I’ve got mine.
In any event, I would hate to think that the photographic documentation of humanity should be limited to posed shots or those done with prior consent.
Still, we can continue to single out street photography if it makes y’all feel better; I'm critical too. But, aside from ethical opposition to candids, it’s simply misguided to believe that any other genre or style is immune to similar faults or criticism.
Finally, no type of photography should need to advance a social message to validate itself; that’s ridiculous. This is not to discredit any type of art that seeks to improve humanity, which needs all the help it can get, but for the love of God, I don’t need ALL art to proselytize, even if for a good cause.
Then again, I don’t believe that photos tell stories, so as you might have gathered, I have no problem with photography being appreciated for form only; there’s nothing shallow about this…that’s aesthetics, and not all art is meant “to get” because often there is nothing intended ‘to get.’
