How to Be a Street Photographer

Work with a minimum of equipment. Because you will be walking the streets waiting for the right moment, carrying only the essential equipment can make the experience easier and more enjoyable. Carry only your camera, flash and any filters you need. Packing too many lenses and light reflectors will make your job difficult. You may miss photo opportunities because you are sorting through equipment.

Choose your location wisely. Street photographers look for interesting occurrences. Select a place with a lot of people to increase the possibility that you'll see something notable.

Dress to blend in with everyone else. The object of street photography is to become part of the background and go unnoticed, so your subjects are oblivious that they are being photographed. Do not wear clothing that will attract attention.

Set your camera up before you go out to take photographs. If you are using a film camera, load the film beforehand. Set your ISO to the appropriate setting and set the f/stop number high enough to allow for a deep depth of field. This will vary between cameras. Pre-focus your camera to a distance of approximately 10 feet. You'll take most photographs from about this distance, and the deep depth of field will increase the focus.

Have your subjects sign a release form if you wish to sell or publish your images. Without a signed consent form, you may experience legal ramifications stemming from lack of permissions.