In today’s day and age, it seems like everyone – young and old – has a camera with them 24/7. Camera’s have become a powerful tool in the world of social media and social justice, but cameras are still the lifeblood of many and those people are photographers.
Being a photographer is one of the greatest joys for many people, and they (photographers) have captured some of the most iconic pictures in times of turmoil and times of peace. From the afghan girl to the towers coming down, photography is a powerful and beautiful medium.
As a photographer, you often see beauty and due to many relaxed laws, you can take photographs in public places without permission. For anyone who is unaware, a stranger photo shoot is quite simply the act of soliciting someone in public and asking permission to take their photo for whatever reason it is intended. There are times where you might want to ask for permission, but are skiddish in asking someone’s permission in order to get the best shot. Dan Doyle Pleasantville NY is an authority on this subject and sat down with us to share six tips on how to have a successful stranger photo shoot.
1. Don’t be nervous!
Don’t be nervous to ask someone for permission to take their photo. You would be surprised how many people their are out who are desperate for some human contact and would be equally flattered to have their photo taken. The worst they can say is no, and the best they can give you is a new friend, or even a business contact.
2. Be ready to take the shot!
Stranger sessions are usually short, due in part to the fact that your newfound friend may be in a hurry to get to work, etc. Be ready to take the shot in less than 30 seconds lest they get antsy and walk away.
3. Don’t be afraid to invite them to your studio, if you have one
Obviously, for some it may seem a little unnerving for someone to approach you in the street pushing a camera in their face. If you sense a little apprehension, offer the subject a business card and extend the offer of a visit to your studio at their convenience, but press the issue as to why you wanted to photograph them in the current situation. Flattering them until they let you get that Pulitzer prize shot!
4. Focus on one part of their body, or dress
In order to maximize your time spent photographing strangers, you should have a subject area ready and maybe even a joke about it to break the ice. Some regularly photographed body parts include ears, hands, and if the subject is game, bellies! Remember to be prepared to discuss the reasons you’ve chosen the particular aspect you wish to photograph and why. If someone asked me to take a photo of my belly without a proper explanation or introduction, I would not be receptive to the idea.
5. Encourage emotions
It is important to encourage your subject to show how they truly feel as opposed to what they think you are looking for. If you see they look very stiff and nervous, tell them a joke. Use whatever tools you have to provoke an emotion in order to get a lively shot! Dan Doyle Pleasantville NY encourages flattery to draw out true emotion and you never know, it might brighten up the subject’s day.
6. Choose your location wisely
If you want to take shots of the way people’s hands move, why not go to the restaurant district and ask anyone who’s eating outdoors for a photo, or even go to a bar and capture people’s hands or themselves in different lighting? Whatever the subject, make sure you go to a location where you can capture a greater and diverse population.
The bottom line
Taking photos of strangers can be a challenge, but once you take the plunge, you will find it easy to do and your newfound confidence will be an inspiration to every other photographer you know.
