I struggle so much with 'geting closer'. Youre so right, it is all a mental thing. Still struggling with it but working on it! Thanks for the great advice!
I’m very fortunate to be living in Thailand and have to say the Thai people love being photographed. Instead of animosity I’m very often asked by someone to take their photo, and they are very natural in front of the lens. Add that to the streets of Bangkok it’s such a pleasure to be out and about. Nobody cares about your equipment either, I wander down alleyways well into the night carrying my Q2 with zero sense of threat
I agree with absolutely everything listed and said besides what you said about getting closer. I shoot with a 45mm and a 28mm for street photography but I've seen people get amazing street photos with tonnes of emotion and a tangible story with 85mm and even 105mm or 120mm primes. I think that aspect of street photography is truly subjective.
@@yeohi I'm happy for you to disagree with me, but I'd love to see some of your work. I genuinely want to see what kind of images you are getting as you take photos in a completely different way to me.
I'm new to photography and actually training my eye subconsciously...even watching tv....getting ideas. Endless possibilities ....thank you for your video 😊
I wanted to take the opportunity to tell you how much I am enjoying and getting out of your video and photos. It has helped me soooo much. I came across your channel a few weeks ago, and I have been savoring every minute of it. There are folks out there with tips and advice, but they don't always have the work to back it up. Both of your portfolios are amazing!! I love your philosophy and approach to photography in general. And the production quality of the videos is first-class as well. I know how much work must go into this. Thanks to much for giving this to the community; so generous of you two. With gratitude, Gene
There is a lot of good advise in this video. Most of my favorite photos were discovered after I get done and look at the images hours later. I close the LCD also keeps to save battery and if I do need to peak I never erase anything on the spot.
Oh god. No. Never delete anything in camera. That’s the worst thing you can do. Apart from the fact that the image might actually be a good one, deleting can seriously screw up the file structure on a card.
Great video and totally agree with all the points made in this video to help in street photography and a few points I try to adhere to, don't hang around when you have taken a photo of someone move on, look stupid if you take a photo that someone notices as if you don't know what you are doing they will just look at you as a fool as opposed to coming up and challenging you. I shoot wide using a high res camera that allows you to crop in in post etc etc etc I could go on..............
Excellent advice. Definitely try not to look sneaky or suspicious and avoid quick, jerky movements as these trigger people's inner alarm. But most all, learn to 'read the room'.
Good points, I shoot with one camera and one lens. I like the simplicity of such a set up. I've also gone back to film for a little while at the moment, so I've left the digital at home as well - I'll always pick up the digital over film if it's there!
@@WalkLikeAlice Tell me about it, I am shooting with HP5 as it is cheaper than Tri-X (but I prefer Tri-X usually). I usually focus on film for a few months, then go back to digital. My brain can't cope with both!
Limiting myself to 2 and eventually one lens helped me greatly. I do like to bring pairs if possible as I find it creates a bit of difference yet with coherence within a group of shots. E.g. 28mm and 50mm. Lately I've been limiting myself to a 35mm whenever possible ( to try to cure my hatred for the 35mm). So far, so good. Although it often feels too clinical. I love the drama and challenge the 28mm brings.
I’ve recently pick up an older film camera and I have to say it is a weight off my shoulders getting my face out of the back screen of my Sony a6700. It’s helped me slow down and stay more focused on just getting the shot and move on to the next.
I don’t chimp… but I have fake chimped. I sometimes take the Winogrand confused photographer approach. I stare at the back of the camera (LCD is never on), befuddled look on my face, make like I’m pressing a button or two, as if I’m trying to figure out what I’m doing. I do this when I see a photographic opportunity forming and someone has noticed me and my camera.
I actually agree with you. I often just walk alone or with my dog but without a camera just to try to „see“, what is a great school for my way of/ changing the way of shooting. Also I often go out with a film camera. No screen. No distractions from that side;-)
Some great advice - I have the Leica Q2 and most of the time (every time I’m doing Street Photography) I put a piece of black tape over the “red dot” to avoid unwanted attention / theft. Really enjoying your new videos…..keep them coming :- )
I suffer Plantar Fasciitis Sit for five minutes and rise again you are crippled with pain Caused by wearing old worn out footwear and damp or wet shoes and concrete floors don't help I now make sure I wear comfortable new footwear Walking around with a camera half limp looks strange to others and you feel an idiot!
Great tips, been wanting to get into street photography for a while and not really knowing now to take the first steps and your videos are a great help. Thanks.
Great tips. I also think picking a location where there are sufficient numbers of people that you can blend in and not stand out while walking around with a camera.
Thanks for the tips. I’ve been shooting street photography since the 90s and still learning something new everytime. Love your pics btw. Amazing stuff. Wish I had that kind of eye. Take care, keep at it and God Bless
Thank you very informative RUclips video I have one camera and one lens which I will make it work for me. Yeah it was the camera I always wanted so I stick with it even though it's big I love it 👍
I enjoy shooting 50 on my M10 but often feel it’s too tight indoors. Like you suggested, I would love to use only 1 lens. 35mm might work but I feel it’s a compromise on both ends.
It’s interesting because the 35mm has always felt like a pair of old shoes. It’s not an exciting lens to use by any means, but whenever I use it, I just seem to enjoy the perspective.
Great video. So much valuable info here. I agree with all the tips except for the last one about blending in. For whatever reason, people in my city are much more open to being photographed when I dress a little more 'loud'. It seems like the more I try to blend in, the more people assume im a voyeur snapping shots, rather than a street photographer documenting his city.
Yet another fab video , thanks fella , my fav Channel.. are you going to do some more ‘ how I edit’ videos ..love watching those , also .I was wondering how you have mapped the buttons etc in your mx mouse ..I have the same mouse and would be interested how you have set it up ..cheers ..
Looking around is critical. Part of it is using the viewscreen with both eyes at the same time you look at the scene for me. I never use the camera viewfinder and have not for any kind of photography for 20+ years. I cannot see the scene properly with a viewfinder and only one eye. With the screen and both eyes I can see the scene completely in an instant without looking all over it trying to figure it out through the VF.
I'm about to embark on my first "shooting from the hip" street photography excursion this weekend. Regarding the references to "chimping", I feel especially challenged by avoiding doing this because I'd like to be able to check my shots as I'm walking around otherwise I may miss a lot more if I'm way off the mark with what I'm doing. I don't see a way around this. I don't have time for a practice run plus I'll be out of town in New York City just for the day and I want to make the most of the opportunity. Any suggestions other than using the settings you recommended?
Nothing wrong with using the screen when starting out. Just try not to look at it after every shot. When we have workshops here, I’ll get the photographer to walk up and down a street. Take some photos and at the end of the street, take a look at the photos. So you can concentrate on looking for shots without being distracted, and then get the feedback you need to see where you are.
On the "Don't chimp" point, so how are we gonna make sure we nailed the focus and exposure and if our camera settings were wrong, should we waste the whole day of shooting because we should look "professional" and not "chimping". I agree with the fact that after each photo you don't need to check the photo our. But after you entered a new scene that requires new camera settings, you might wait and check out the scene to see if you nailed the shot or not. Great video btw
Forgive me if I misunderstood your point and jumped too quickly to comment section😅 Your videos has been helpful and informative as always. Thank you@@WalkLikeAlice
First of all, I would like to say thank you for these really great tips! 🙂 I´ve recently started street photography and I´m still very reluctant to take pictures of people. Because I´m afraid that someone could file a complaint for a picture I later uploaded to the internet. Are there any tips for this?
Depending on the country that you are shooting in, the law varies. In the UK, the law states that people have no expectation of privacy in a public place. Given that there are CCTV cameras, dash cams, mobile phones etc on every street corner in the UK, we are happy to take what we want and upload what we like. However, we avoid taking photos of people in compromising situations. The chances of anyone seeing a photo of themselves in our work is very unlikely, but If, by some remote chance, they did see a photo with them in it, the worst they can do is ask us to remove the photo, but the law is on our side in the UK. They have no legal footing to enforce such a request.
@@WalkLikeAlice Many thanks for the quick response 🙂 Then I´ll see what I can find in our German laws. And I can only repeat myselfe, your work is really great and instructive 🙂
Currently floating between a 35mm Fuji and 27mm Vintage Pentax on Fuji X only taking one lens is good advice as tbh, everything else you were saying also 👊
Love all your points. Thank you for your work. My question with regards to your last point is that when walking around trying to blend in, carrying a 15k+ Leica setup, how would we reconcile these thoughts? I keep reaching towards my Sony more frequently as opposed to my Leica simply because of this fact. Super annoyed and sad about this.
The problem with Leica is that the new gear is so ridiculously expensive that I would hesitate to take it out on some streets. I guess you have to pay the insurance and hope for the best. We have older cameras and lenses so it’s not such a big deal for us. I personally would always choose a black camera rather than a silver one and I would probably tape it up to make it a little more beat up. But it does depend on where you are going with it.
@@WalkLikeAlice Thank you for your reply. I always have a buddy with me, when I take out my Leica. That's how I feel a lot more secure. Such a shame though. Love your work guys. Thank you again.
Nice video. Regarding getting closer, a lot of street photography oddly seems to be at either extreme. Either they wave a short focal length in people's faces, or they shoot from a distance towards a building that has satisfying lines and a person (possibly a friend) walking across in front of it (ideally holding an umbrella that can be photoshopped into a suitably complementary colour in post). I'm not saying they're not using amazing skill, but these feel like conventions that any of us can get stuck in. With those kinds of shots, after-editing and lens distortion etc do a lot of heavy lifting to make them look dynamic, but the interesting subject is still missing. I've shifted to using a small prime this winter (to cope well in low light) and have opted for the Fuji 33mm f1.4. That lens is 50mm equivalent and takes quite straightforward pics, lacking the se*y distortion of the 18mm or the powerhouse bokeh of the 56mm etc. I'm hoping that'll be healthy for my composition skills, by making me work a little harder to find interest and energy in pictures. I'll see how it goes.
You and Sarah are my favourite street photography RUclips channel. Always insightful, and mixed in with honesty and humility. I still don’t know if streets photography is for me as I’m still too far from my subjects and generally in fear of having a confrontation. I guess, practice makes perfect. BTW, I”m more like you in my temperament than Sarah.
Biggest tip, stop worrying if you take bad photo, the stress of not taking good photos will limit your ability, just take snaps of things you, yes you find interesting not anyone else
Thanks for the tips Jeff. I'd love to see you photograph Blackpool's Rebellion Festival in August..... I went last year and it's a brilliant event with loads of colourful characters out and about on the streets. I'll be going this year, for the music and festivities and probably take my little Oly XZ1 or Canon S95. Have you ever shot the festival from the street?
We’ve always been away at that time of the year. I know Sarah is trying to get into the event this year as we will be at home in August. Our daughter knows the organisers. So we will see. 😉
I have a Rebel T6 and it makes quite a noticeable sound when taking shots. Are you worried about yours attracting attention. How would one go about mitigating this?
Thank you, again. You have some really great photos. One tip I don't think you mentioned is: "Take lots of pictures!" If you take three photos of the same person, one of the photos is going to be more interesting, more appealing than the other two. I'm guessing that Henri Cartier-Bresson took lots of photos - and he had to wind his film after each shot.
Did Sarah flash you the middle finger @0:39 Jeff? Love it... One camera, one lens is the way to go for me. My M240 with a 35mm (mostly) and just love that setup. Thanks for the video..
@@WalkLikeAlice One small bit of advice (from Matt Osborne/mrleica) that I found interesting while out on the street, but had not thought about it is using silver cameras or lenses. They seem to stand out to people much more than all black gear.
@@mwales2112 we can only speak from experience but in 25 years of owning silver Leicas, we’ve never had an issue. If anything, the black cameras get more comments from people. That may be because we use black cameras more than silver. I don’t know. But no, never had an issue with silver cameras standing out.
@@mwales2112 we can only speak from experience but in 25 years of owning silver Leicas, we’ve never had an issue. If anything, the black cameras get more comments from people. That may be because we use black cameras more than silver. I don’t know. But no, never had an issue with silver cameras standing out.
As far as looking at the back of the camera goes, I agree that you can't judge the photograph from the back screen. However, I fully believe in using the screen as you start your day out, or if a challenging lighting condition shot is taken, to dial in your exposure settings using the histogram and checking for blown out highlights. Ex. If your entire sky is blown out to get an exposure, then that limits, if not prevents, doing things with that image if the blown out sky takes up a large/majority part of the image.
I only ever chimp if I have been standing a a particular spot waiting for the right subject to enter the scene with street. I must know I've got an acceptable shot....in my minds eye..!
As a starter I chimp a lot. The reason is especially when my environment changes my camera values change too and i want to adjust shutter or aperture, etc. because the lcd shows to bright and or to dark. I feel that I lose opportunities. What can i do about it?
Try not to obsess over the exposure. The LCD isn’t the greatest way of judging exposure because it only shows the embedded jpeg in the RAW file. There’s a lot of latitude in RAW files so you would have to be wildly out to screw up an exposure. Leave the camera in aperture priority or set the shutter speed and aperture manually and use auto ISO, and just take photos. You will learn more by taking pictures than looking at the LCD.
On the subject of chimping there is a an easy way to get over it: Give them a film camera. And I'm not saying you should do this all the time but as addition to the system and instrument for self-education it still has a place in my bag (strictly b+w).
You say , don’t stand on corners looking creepy, what about when you have good light and you work the scene , shadow and light and minimal street are part of what I like to do , I suppose it could be termed different because I just want a human element in the scene , I do candid stuff too and I agree about standing in one spot in this case , I do keep moving , pausing just enough to get a sharp shot . Love the channel 👌
You can stand on a street corner and NOT look creepy. It’s the standing there with a camera up to your eye permanently while following people with the camera that is a little bit creepy.
I do both. I’ve been standing on a corner and “not being creepy”. If it’s a busy corner in the rush hour, most people are too busy to pay attention how you look. I guess it depends a lot how much experience you have as a photographer.
Great tips! I sometimes find a great background. Then it's wait for my actors! Don't chimp! If confronted, sometimes not having even taken an image, offer to do one, on phone and share! Sure not candid but pleasing! Don't be intense! Never use a Rollei! They are seen as beautiful (they are!) and you will have long chats! Offer the Phone image! Share there and then! Use compact cameras. My M3 is in 1/2 case from a Pentax! Very worn camera. Dress down, but don't look like a hobo! Bravo!
I suggest a modification to the advice on chimping - if you're hunting, don't chimp because you might miss the next shot. If you're fishing, however, chimp so that you can check whether you've got the shot (and can move on to the next location). I have had multiple shoots in which I've been fishing for a long time, only to discover later (after the shoot) that one of the earlier frames was good (and if I had chimped more, I would not have wasted my shooting time).
Thanks for the comment. I think everyone has a different approach, which is how it should be, but I personally couldn’t work like that. I’m too reactive as a photographer. I can’t stand still when shooting. So chimping, for me, is to check the camera is ok, not to make judgements on the photos I’m taking. But, like I said, everyone is different.
For some it’s a form of social documentary. For others it’s a means of self expression. Most people tend to shoot street photographs just because they like to.
each time i am going out with my film camera I am chimping my first couple of shots, even if there is no screen, and I lol, after that I enter another dimension where i focus on light and how to move the dials not to miss the next shot
I think [Get Close] needs to be taken with a grain of salt. I've seen many getting close, but not for good reason - Ending up with a mediocre street portrait with wonky, out of focus backgrounds, or no context at all. I think you need to not only capture characters, but also scene for a good story. I shoot 28mm, but I'd still step back to try and capture the world that my subjects inhabit. The full mis-en-scen makes a photo documentary for me. I find that as time goes on, I appreciate these wide images more, because they show more.
Yes I agree, but as a general principle, and as someone that sees a lot of street photography from others, the most common issue that photographers have is that everything is shot from too far away. The images created often lack energy or interest. Getting closer usually improves the images and also the confidence of the photographer. Everyone has a reason to shoot street. For us, it’s how we make our living. For others, it’s just for fun and enjoyment. So as long as the photographer is happy with the images, all is good 🙂
@@WalkLikeAlice I suppose we probably see vastly different examples. I typically see the social media bangers which are pretty close and bokeh-ry. 85mm of just some old guy's hand with a cigarette against blurry asphalt, or babes looking worried about the camera as they step out of stores at golden hour. Typically I can't tell where anything is - and they feel like insert shots from a movie where they're cut against a guy looking through binoculars. I feel like a sniper, and always think stepping back and getting a bit more in frame would offer some more story to those ones at least.
How does anyone make a living taking pictures of strangers? Who buys pictures of people they don't know? I understand why someone would want work by famous photographer's ..... But I don't know who would buy work that isn't well known, or by somebody that isn't well known.
@@ThePurpleHarpoon That's because you are associating making a living in photography with the buying of photographs. That hasn't been the case for many years.
I did never hear about Chimping😂😂😂. But your explanation made clear it is a habit I really do not like! Shooting street with a 1932 Leica Standard and a 3.5 cm f3.5 Summaron I can’t help myself doing this when I see the People who do Chimping ( I love the expression) I ask them, is it a good photo? And most of the time they show it proud! And then I show the black back of my old Standard. Looking at those faces totally confused…. Okey corny, I know😂😂😂
About the action of "chimping". I understand what you're getting at although I have to disagree that you should not do it. My reasoning is that something might be accidentally changed. That could provide you with a totally trash photo. Once in a while, a simple check, "Chimp", concerning the quality of the photo can provide you without a totally ruined day of shooting. This comes from when I had my camera hanging on my side and I walked around looking for a restaurant then grabbed my camera only to find that one of the controls had accidentally rubbed on me and changed the setting.
I haven't read through all the comments, but at about 10:48 into the video, you state that you should "look like a tourist". I have to disagree with this. If you want to blend in, you don't want to look like a tourist because they are the subject of a lot of scams, pick-pockets, and other crimes. I do agree, however, with everything else you said. Leave all of the expensive stuff at home! Good video. Thanks!
Thanks for your comments. The point I was tmaking is that you don’t want to look like a photographer. When shooting in a popular place, there are lots of tourists taking lots of photos and nobody pays them any attention.
I took some photos in a park of trees ,plants and park life. while I was taking a picture a child rushed into frame and the parents dragged their child away and looked at me disgustingly . I walked away. Asking someone if they mind having there photo taken is the best thing to do.
The only thing I disagree with is your interpretation of what’s creepy. Sometimes I see a scene and I have to run to make sure I get to it, or I have to get into an awkward position because I pre-visualized what I wanted. Then again, there’s sometimes you have to make a move quickly and use your intuition, it doesn’t always work out, but you never know to you try! But the biggest thing I try to avoid is getting into peoples faces, so I try not to get too close, as I can always crop!
And never wear a red shirt. Like the old known statistic that red sports cars get the most tickets. Thanks man good video… this is coming from a photographer with 40 years experience.
@@WalkLikeAlice my channel is an expose' of cheap guitars and knockoffs which I am against based on copyright infringement. I'm in a large cosmopolitan city. Gangs, high crime, homelessness.
Concerning shoes, I highly recommend a good pair of jogging / running shoes bought from a good(!) sports shop. Generally the salespersons know what they're talking about. Some of those shops can even do a video analysis of your walking or running style so you can get a pair with correction if necessary. The difference to a pair of usual street shoes is huge, both in weight and comfort!
Fast 50, wide 28; SP is a long walk made interesting. A single lens can limit the experience and possibilities. Zooms waste time with decision making. Right on the button though about weighing yourself down with equipment.
@@yeohi it doesn’t. I don’t use them. But in 25+ years of teaching photographers, zoom lenses are a problem to many. They are also big, heavy, and pretty obtrusive. But that’s just my opinion.
I struggle so much with 'geting closer'. Youre so right, it is all a mental thing. Still struggling with it but working on it! Thanks for the great advice!
What a brilliant channel!! Refreshing to find a photographer making YT videos rather that a YTuber making photgraphy content.
Thank you!!
I’m very fortunate to be living in Thailand and have to say the Thai people love being photographed. Instead of animosity I’m very often asked by someone to take their photo, and they are very natural in front of the lens. Add that to the streets of Bangkok it’s such a pleasure to be out and about. Nobody cares about your equipment either, I wander down alleyways well into the night carrying my Q2 with zero sense of threat
So true 😊
I agree with absolutely everything listed and said besides what you said about getting closer. I shoot with a 45mm and a 28mm for street photography but I've seen people get amazing street photos with tonnes of emotion and a tangible story with 85mm and even 105mm or 120mm primes. I think that aspect of street photography is truly subjective.
Everything in photography is subjective 🙂
@@yeohi if you're looking for objectivity within an art form you very very are lost.
@@yeohithats your way, thats not the way of lots of other people.
@@yeohi I'm happy for you to disagree with me, but I'd love to see some of your work. I genuinely want to see what kind of images you are getting as you take photos in a completely different way to me.
If you take a look at this video, I look at lens choice and how it's very personal to the photographer. ruclips.net/video/5PKmuDVVMVs/видео.html
Olympus EM1-2 with 12mm - 40mm f2.8 Pro lens.....just wonderful !
I'm new to photography and actually training my eye subconsciously...even watching tv....getting ideas. Endless possibilities ....thank you for your video 😊
Thanks for watching
OMG... blast from the past. Ascough was my inspiration early on in my photography journey. Glad to see him back to Leica it seems.
I wanted to take the opportunity to tell you how much I am enjoying and getting out of your video and photos. It has helped me soooo much. I came across your channel a few weeks ago, and I have been savoring every minute of it. There are folks out there with tips and advice, but they don't always have the work to back it up. Both of your portfolios are amazing!! I love your philosophy and approach to photography in general. And the production quality of the videos is first-class as well. I know how much work must go into this. Thanks to much for giving this to the community; so generous of you two. With gratitude, Gene
Thanks, Gene. You are very kind. We are very happy that you like the content and get something from it. 🙏🙏
This spoke to me sooooo much. For once a photographer with real talent is talking to me and demonstrating what the art is really about. Many thanks!
Thank you. 🙏🙏
There is a lot of good advise in this video. Most of my favorite photos were discovered after I get done and look at the images hours later. I close the LCD also keeps to save battery and if I do need to peak I never erase anything on the spot.
Oh god. No. Never delete anything in camera. That’s the worst thing you can do. Apart from the fact that the image might actually be a good one, deleting can seriously screw up the file structure on a card.
Thank you, very practical approach, we will learn to apply the knowledge to the real shooting, thanks again! 🙏
Excellent points. As a beginner it's always helpful to hear some advice how to improve.
Cheers. I’m glad you found it helpful. 🙏
Absolute greatness! The video, the work. I loved this.
Thank you!!
This could be one of the most important videos of all time in my Street Photography creativity journey. 🎉
Possibly the most interesting video ever. Thanks so much for sharing!
You are very kind. Thank you 🙏
Great video and totally agree with all the points made in this video to help in street photography and a few points I try to adhere to, don't hang around when you have taken a photo of someone move on, look stupid if you take a photo that someone notices as if you don't know what you are doing they will just look at you as a fool as opposed to coming up and challenging you. I shoot wide using a high res camera that allows you to crop in in post etc etc etc I could go on..............
Excellent advice. Definitely try not to look sneaky or suspicious and avoid quick, jerky movements as these trigger people's inner alarm. But most all, learn to 'read the room'.
Can't wait for the Oxford workshop! I feel like it's going to improve my wedding work ten fold.
Looking forward to meeting you!!
Really useful and original tips! Thanks a lot!
Good points, I shoot with one camera and one lens. I like the simplicity of such a set up. I've also gone back to film for a little while at the moment, so I've left the digital at home as well - I'll always pick up the digital over film if it's there!
I keep dabbling with film but can’t quite justify the expense!!
@@WalkLikeAlice Tell me about it, I am shooting with HP5 as it is cheaper than Tri-X (but I prefer Tri-X usually). I usually focus on film for a few months, then go back to digital. My brain can't cope with both!
Such an outstanding video! Amazing advice, one of the best street photography videos out there!
Thank you
Limiting myself to 2 and eventually one lens helped me greatly. I do like to bring pairs if possible as I find it creates a bit of difference yet with coherence within a group of shots. E.g. 28mm and 50mm. Lately I've been limiting myself to a 35mm whenever possible ( to try to cure my hatred for the 35mm). So far, so good. Although it often feels too clinical. I love the drama and challenge the 28mm brings.
I have two cameras, both with fixed lenses - 28 and 50.. Trying to master those and "see" everything within that range.
I’ve recently pick up an older film camera and I have to say it is a weight off my shoulders getting my face out of the back screen of my Sony a6700. It’s helped me slow down and stay more focused on just getting the shot and move on to the next.
Excelent,tips thank you for sharing with us,keep up the good work
Thank you 🙏🙏
I don’t chimp… but I have fake chimped. I sometimes take the Winogrand confused photographer approach. I stare at the back of the camera (LCD is never on), befuddled look on my face, make like I’m pressing a button or two, as if I’m trying to figure out what I’m doing. I do this when I see a photographic opportunity forming and someone has noticed me and my camera.
That’s a great tip. Winogrand was a master of that.
Thank you for putting up these incredibly informative videos!! 🙌🏻
All great points -and as Yogi Berra reminded us, you can see a lot just by looking around.
I actually agree with you. I often just walk alone or with my dog but without a camera just to try to „see“, what is a great school for my way of/ changing the way of shooting. Also I often go out with a film camera. No screen. No distractions from that side;-)
Some great advice - I have the Leica Q2 and most of the time (every time I’m doing Street Photography) I put a piece of black tape over the “red dot” to avoid unwanted attention / theft. Really enjoying your new videos…..keep them coming :- )
Thank you!!
comfy shoes is a top tip.
I suffer Plantar Fasciitis
Sit for five minutes and rise again you are crippled with pain
Caused by wearing old worn out footwear and damp or wet shoes and concrete floors don't help
I now make sure I wear comfortable new footwear
Walking around with a camera half limp looks strange to others and you feel an idiot!
man the wedding photos you had there where some next level stuff, like stills from a movie!
Thank you. They’re from a different photographic lifetime.
Great tips, been wanting to get into street photography for a while and not really knowing now to take the first steps and your videos are a great help. Thanks.
Thank you!! Just go out with a camera and see how you feel.
Great tips. I also think picking a location where there are sufficient numbers of people that you can blend in and not stand out while walking around with a camera.
Good tip. Yes, it’s a lot easier to work in crowded areas.
Thanks for the tips. I’ve been shooting street photography since the 90s and still learning something new everytime. Love your pics btw. Amazing stuff. Wish I had that kind of eye. Take care, keep at it and God Bless
Thank you so much. You are very kind. 🙏
Thank you very informative RUclips video I have one camera and one lens which I will make it work for me. Yeah it was the camera I always wanted so I stick with it even though it's big I love it 👍
👍
Good solid advice. Thanks for this
Thank you 🙏
Another good episode Jeff thanks for posting.
Thanks for watching!! Glad you are enjoying them.
Great video! Thanks . I wonder if you are a shutter speed or a aperture priority street photographer! Or instead you prefer manual mode?
Sarah - Aperture Priority
Jeff - Manual
Hope this helps.
this was some really thought out good advice for beginners. great stuff. and yes SHOES SHOES SHOES... i tell people that all the time hahahaha.
I enjoy shooting 50 on my M10 but often feel it’s too tight indoors. Like you suggested, I would love to use only 1 lens. 35mm might work but I feel it’s a compromise on both ends.
It’s interesting because the 35mm has always felt like a pair of old shoes. It’s not an exciting lens to use by any means, but whenever I use it, I just seem to enjoy the perspective.
Such a helpful video - thanks so much
You are very welcome. Thanks for watching.
Great tips Thank you😊
Thank you for watching
very nice video, thank you for sharing!
Thank you for watching 🙏
Great video. So much valuable info here. I agree with all the tips except for the last one about blending in.
For whatever reason, people in my city are much more open to being photographed when I dress a little more 'loud'. It seems like the more I try to blend in, the more people assume im a voyeur snapping shots, rather than a street photographer documenting his city.
Yet another fab video , thanks fella , my fav Channel.. are you going to do some more ‘ how I edit’ videos ..love watching those , also .I was wondering how you have mapped the buttons etc in your mx mouse ..I have the same mouse and would be interested how you have set it up ..cheers ..
Thanks Mike. Yes we have some editing videos in the pipeline 🙂
,. very helpful advices.. thank you so much ...
🙏
Thanks for this hint about chimping!
Glad you found it helpful
Looking around is critical. Part of it is using the viewscreen with both eyes at the same time you look at the scene for me. I never use the camera viewfinder and have not for any kind of photography for 20+ years. I cannot see the scene properly with a viewfinder and only one eye. With the screen and both eyes I can see the scene completely in an instant without looking all over it trying to figure it out through the VF.
I just liked this video and subscribed your channel. ❤
Thank you
I'm about to embark on my first "shooting from the hip" street photography excursion this weekend. Regarding the references to "chimping", I feel especially challenged by avoiding doing this because I'd like to be able to check my shots as I'm walking around otherwise I may miss a lot more if I'm way off the mark with what I'm doing. I don't see a way around this. I don't have time for a practice run plus I'll be out of town in New York City just for the day and I want to make the most of the opportunity. Any suggestions other than using the settings you recommended?
Nothing wrong with using the screen when starting out. Just try not to look at it after every shot. When we have workshops here, I’ll get the photographer to walk up and down a street. Take some photos and at the end of the street, take a look at the photos. So you can concentrate on looking for shots without being distracted, and then get the feedback you need to see where you are.
thanks a lot !!
On the "Don't chimp" point, so how are we gonna make sure we nailed the focus and exposure and if our camera settings were wrong, should we waste the whole day of shooting because we should look "professional" and not "chimping". I agree with the fact that after each photo you don't need to check the photo our. But after you entered a new scene that requires new camera settings, you might wait and check out the scene to see if you nailed the shot or not. Great video btw
Which is basically what I said. 🙂
Forgive me if I misunderstood your point and jumped too quickly to comment section😅 Your videos has been helpful and informative as always. Thank you@@WalkLikeAlice
@@itsmahdisadeghi No problem 🙏🏻
First of all, I would like to say thank you for these really great tips! 🙂 I´ve recently started street photography and I´m still very reluctant to take pictures of people. Because I´m afraid that someone could file a complaint for a picture I later uploaded to the internet. Are there any tips for this?
Depending on the country that you are shooting in, the law varies. In the UK, the law states that people have no expectation of privacy in a public place. Given that there are CCTV cameras, dash cams, mobile phones etc on every street corner in the UK, we are happy to take what we want and upload what we like. However, we avoid taking photos of people in compromising situations. The chances of anyone seeing a photo of themselves in our work is very unlikely, but If, by some remote chance, they did see a photo with them in it, the worst they can do is ask us to remove the photo, but the law is on our side in the UK. They have no legal footing to enforce such a request.
@@WalkLikeAlice Many thanks for the quick response 🙂 Then I´ll see what I can find in our German laws. And I can only repeat myselfe, your work is really great and instructive 🙂
Currently floating between a 35mm Fuji and 27mm Vintage Pentax on Fuji X only taking one lens is good advice as tbh, everything else you were saying also 👊
Thank you
Love all your points. Thank you for your work. My question with regards to your last point is that when walking around trying to blend in, carrying a 15k+ Leica setup, how would we reconcile these thoughts? I keep reaching towards my Sony more frequently as opposed to my Leica simply because of this fact. Super annoyed and sad about this.
The problem with Leica is that the new gear is so ridiculously expensive that I would hesitate to take it out on some streets. I guess you have to pay the insurance and hope for the best. We have older cameras and lenses so it’s not such a big deal for us. I personally would always choose a black camera rather than a silver one and I would probably tape it up to make it a little more beat up. But it does depend on where you are going with it.
@@WalkLikeAlice Thank you for your reply. I always have a buddy with me, when I take out my Leica. That's how I feel a lot more secure. Such a shame though. Love your work guys. Thank you again.
Great video :)
Thank you 🙏
What I try to keep in mind is no-one owes me a photograph.
This is very true!!
Nice video. Regarding getting closer, a lot of street photography oddly seems to be at either extreme. Either they wave a short focal length in people's faces, or they shoot from a distance towards a building that has satisfying lines and a person (possibly a friend) walking across in front of it (ideally holding an umbrella that can be photoshopped into a suitably complementary colour in post).
I'm not saying they're not using amazing skill, but these feel like conventions that any of us can get stuck in. With those kinds of shots, after-editing and lens distortion etc do a lot of heavy lifting to make them look dynamic, but the interesting subject is still missing.
I've shifted to using a small prime this winter (to cope well in low light) and have opted for the Fuji 33mm f1.4. That lens is 50mm equivalent and takes quite straightforward pics, lacking the se*y distortion of the 18mm or the powerhouse bokeh of the 56mm etc. I'm hoping that'll be healthy for my composition skills, by making me work a little harder to find interest and energy in pictures. I'll see how it goes.
You and Sarah are my favourite street photography RUclips channel. Always insightful, and mixed in with honesty and humility. I still don’t know if streets photography is for me as I’m still too far from my subjects and generally in fear of having a confrontation. I guess, practice makes perfect. BTW, I”m more like you in my temperament than Sarah.
Thank you. The more you do street photography, the more confident you become. It takes time.
Biggest tip, stop worrying if you take bad photo, the stress of not taking good photos will limit your ability, just take snaps of things you, yes you find interesting not anyone else
You have to take the bad ones to find the good ones.
Thanks for the tips Jeff. I'd love to see you photograph Blackpool's Rebellion Festival in August..... I went last year and it's a brilliant event with loads of colourful characters out and about on the streets. I'll be going this year, for the music and festivities and probably take my little Oly XZ1 or Canon S95. Have you ever shot the festival from the street?
We’ve always been away at that time of the year. I know Sarah is trying to get into the event this year as we will be at home in August. Our daughter knows the organisers. So we will see. 😉
@@WalkLikeAlice it would be great to see you there. Fingers crossed for you. This is year is probably the most diverse line up they've had.
I have a Rebel T6 and it makes quite a noticeable sound when taking shots. Are you worried about yours attracting attention. How would one go about mitigating this?
Can’t say we’ve ever worried about the shutter noise. It always sounds louder in videos because the camera is so close to the microphone.
I just learned I am a chimp. I don't do much street photography but I'm starting to get into it.
Thank you, again. You have some really great photos. One tip I don't think you mentioned is: "Take lots of pictures!" If you take three photos of the same person, one of the photos is going to be more interesting, more appealing than the other two. I'm guessing that Henri Cartier-Bresson took lots of photos - and he had to wind his film after each shot.
Thank you.
Did Sarah flash you the middle finger @0:39 Jeff? Love it... One camera, one lens is the way to go for me. My M240 with a 35mm (mostly) and just love that setup. Thanks for the video..
Yeah it’s standard MO when we are out!!
@@WalkLikeAlice One small bit of advice (from Matt Osborne/mrleica) that I found interesting while out on the street, but had not thought about it is using silver cameras or lenses. They seem to stand out to people much more than all black gear.
@@mwales2112 we can only speak from experience but in 25 years of owning silver Leicas, we’ve never had an issue. If anything, the black cameras get more comments from people. That may be because we use black cameras more than silver. I don’t know. But no, never had an issue with silver cameras standing out.
@@mwales2112 we can only speak from experience but in 25 years of owning silver Leicas, we’ve never had an issue. If anything, the black cameras get more comments from people. That may be because we use black cameras more than silver. I don’t know. But no, never had an issue with silver cameras standing out.
@@WalkLikeAlice I haven't either, but is was something to think about since I have a silver and a black M240..
As far as looking at the back of the camera goes, I agree that you can't judge the photograph from the back screen. However, I fully believe in using the screen as you start your day out, or if a challenging lighting condition shot is taken, to dial in your exposure settings using the histogram and checking for blown out highlights.
Ex. If your entire sky is blown out to get an exposure, then that limits, if not prevents, doing things with that image if the blown out sky takes up a large/majority part of the image.
Whatever works for you is the most important thing.
I only ever chimp if I have been standing a a particular spot waiting for the right subject to enter the scene with street. I must know I've got an acceptable shot....in my minds eye..!
god i love docu-style/ reportage style
Good advice
Thank you 🙏🙏
Can you explain the „good shoes“ metaphor?
As a starter I chimp a lot. The reason is especially when my environment changes my camera values change too and i want to adjust shutter or aperture, etc. because the lcd shows to bright and or to dark. I feel that I lose opportunities. What can i do about it?
Try not to obsess over the exposure. The LCD isn’t the greatest way of judging exposure because it only shows the embedded jpeg in the RAW file. There’s a lot of latitude in RAW files so you would have to be wildly out to screw up an exposure. Leave the camera in aperture priority or set the shutter speed and aperture manually and use auto ISO, and just take photos. You will learn more by taking pictures than looking at the LCD.
Get Close is probably the most important tip. It's true. Once you overcome that fear of getting close, your photos will greatly improve.
Always. The biggest way of improving in most genres of photography is to get closer.
Blend in 9:50
great
Gary Winogrand was the king of "chimping" with his old Leica.
On the subject of chimping there is a an easy way to get over it: Give them a film camera. And I'm not saying you should do this all the time but as addition to the system and instrument for self-education it still has a place in my bag (strictly b+w).
There’s a cheaper way. Gaffa tape over the lcd
@@WalkLikeAlice Cheaper than a Leica MD (Type 262) for sure. 😅
You say , don’t stand on corners looking creepy, what about when you have good light and you work the scene , shadow and light and minimal street are part of what I like to do , I suppose it could be termed different because I just want a human element in the scene , I do candid stuff too and I agree about standing in one spot in this case , I do keep moving , pausing just enough to get a sharp shot . Love the channel 👌
You can stand on a street corner and NOT look creepy. It’s the standing there with a camera up to your eye permanently while following people with the camera that is a little bit creepy.
@@WalkLikeAlice Absolutely, I’m 68 and I dress like I’m 40 🤣🤣 I don’t look my age , i like to shoot from the hip for candid stuff too .
I do both. I’ve been standing on a corner and “not being creepy”. If it’s a busy corner in the rush hour, most people are too busy to pay attention how you look. I guess it depends a lot how much experience you have as a photographer.
Great tips! I sometimes find a great background. Then it's wait for my actors! Don't chimp! If confronted, sometimes not having even taken an image, offer to do one, on phone and share! Sure not candid but pleasing! Don't be intense! Never use a Rollei! They are seen as beautiful (they are!) and you will have long chats! Offer the Phone image! Share there and then! Use compact cameras. My M3 is in 1/2 case from a Pentax! Very worn camera. Dress down, but don't look like a hobo! Bravo!
I suggest a modification to the advice on chimping - if you're hunting, don't chimp because you might miss the next shot. If you're fishing, however, chimp so that you can check whether you've got the shot (and can move on to the next location). I have had multiple shoots in which I've been fishing for a long time, only to discover later (after the shoot) that one of the earlier frames was good (and if I had chimped more, I would not have wasted my shooting time).
Thanks for the comment. I think everyone has a different approach, which is how it should be, but I personally couldn’t work like that. I’m too reactive as a photographer. I can’t stand still when shooting. So chimping, for me, is to check the camera is ok, not to make judgements on the photos I’m taking. But, like I said, everyone is different.
So what do you do with street photography? What is the end game? I am just curious about the purpose behind it.
For some it’s a form of social documentary. For others it’s a means of self expression. Most people tend to shoot street photographs just because they like to.
Meaning of "Walk Like Alice", please? Thank you.
It's in the channel description :)
Thank you. Well named.
each time i am going out with my film camera I am chimping my first couple of shots, even if there is no screen, and I lol, after that I enter another dimension where i focus on light and how to move the dials not to miss the next shot
I think [Get Close] needs to be taken with a grain of salt. I've seen many getting close, but not for good reason - Ending up with a mediocre street portrait with wonky, out of focus backgrounds, or no context at all. I think you need to not only capture characters, but also scene for a good story.
I shoot 28mm, but I'd still step back to try and capture the world that my subjects inhabit. The full mis-en-scen makes a photo documentary for me. I find that as time goes on, I appreciate these wide images more, because they show more.
Yes I agree, but as a general principle, and as someone that sees a lot of street photography from others, the most common issue that photographers have is that everything is shot from too far away. The images created often lack energy or interest. Getting closer usually improves the images and also the confidence of the photographer.
Everyone has a reason to shoot street. For us, it’s how we make our living. For others, it’s just for fun and enjoyment. So as long as the photographer is happy with the images, all is good 🙂
@@WalkLikeAlice I suppose we probably see vastly different examples.
I typically see the social media bangers which are pretty close and bokeh-ry. 85mm of just some old guy's hand with a cigarette against blurry asphalt, or babes looking worried about the camera as they step out of stores at golden hour. Typically I can't tell where anything is - and they feel like insert shots from a movie where they're cut against a guy looking through binoculars. I feel like a sniper, and always think stepping back and getting a bit more in frame would offer some more story to those ones at least.
@@-grey fair point and I agree. Although I try to avoid any social media accounts with the style of photography you have described 🙈
How does anyone make a living taking pictures of strangers?
Who buys pictures of people they don't know?
I understand why someone would want work by famous photographer's ..... But I don't know who would buy work that isn't well known, or by somebody that isn't well known.
@@ThePurpleHarpoon That's because you are associating making a living in photography with the buying of photographs. That hasn't been the case for many years.
I did never hear about Chimping😂😂😂. But your explanation made clear it is a habit I really do not like! Shooting street with a 1932 Leica Standard and a 3.5 cm f3.5 Summaron I can’t help myself doing this when I see the People who do Chimping ( I love the expression) I ask them, is it a good photo? And most of the time they show it proud! And then I show the black back of my old Standard. Looking at those faces totally confused…. Okey corny, I know😂😂😂
Haha.
About the action of "chimping". I understand what you're getting at although I have to disagree that you should not do it. My reasoning is that something might be accidentally changed. That could provide you with a totally trash photo. Once in a while, a simple check, "Chimp", concerning the quality of the photo can provide you without a totally ruined day of shooting. This comes from when I had my camera hanging on my side and I walked around looking for a restaurant then grabbed my camera only to find that one of the controls had accidentally rubbed on me and changed the setting.
You do whatever works for you 🙂
Please send me more tips so help take photographs
28-70 and a 70-300. We're good to go.
If that works for you 🫣
I haven't read through all the comments, but at about 10:48 into the video, you state that you should "look like a tourist". I have to disagree with this. If you want to blend in, you don't want to look like a tourist because they are the subject of a lot of scams, pick-pockets, and other crimes. I do agree, however, with everything else you said. Leave all of the expensive stuff at home! Good video. Thanks!
Thanks for your comments. The point I was tmaking is that you don’t want to look like a photographer. When shooting in a popular place, there are lots of tourists taking lots of photos and nobody pays them any attention.
I took some photos in a park of trees ,plants and park life. while I was taking a picture a child rushed into frame and the parents dragged their child away and looked at me disgustingly . I walked away. Asking someone if they mind having there photo taken is the best thing to do.
If that’s what you are comfortable with, then go for it. Personally, I’ve never asked anyone for a photo on the street in over a decade. 🙂
The time I`ve taken pictures in the streets, just two situation I had any problem. Both moments it was homeless what didn`t takes part of the scenes.
Always go with your gut. If it looks wrong or feels wrong, don’t take the photo.
@@WalkLikeAlice yes of course. In the two cases I commented on, people did not even point the camera. They appeared out of nowhere.
The only thing I disagree with is your interpretation of what’s creepy. Sometimes I see a scene and I have to run to make sure I get to it, or I have to get into an awkward position because I pre-visualized what I wanted.
Then again, there’s sometimes you have to make a move quickly and use your intuition, it doesn’t always work out, but you never know to you try!
But the biggest thing I try to avoid is getting into peoples faces, so I try not to get too close, as I can always crop!
And never wear a red shirt. Like the old known statistic that red sports cars get the most tickets. Thanks man good video… this is coming from a photographer with 40 years experience.
I once went out on the street with a red jacket during the winter. Never again!! Thanks for your kind comments.
At times it is prudent to ask for permission before taking pics of strangers. Know your audience.
Can I ask your experience level in terms of photography? I can only see a channel dedicated to cheap guitars.
@@WalkLikeAlice my channel is an expose' of cheap guitars and knockoffs which I am against based on copyright infringement. I'm in a large cosmopolitan city. Gangs, high crime, homelessness.
Carrying your photo gear in a baby diaper bag - is the safest way. And never forget - the cheapest and most effective zoom is your legs.
Concerning shoes, I highly recommend a good pair of jogging / running shoes bought from a good(!) sports shop. Generally the salespersons know what they're talking about. Some of those shops can even do a video analysis of your walking or running style so you can get a pair with correction if necessary. The difference to a pair of usual street shoes is huge, both in weight and comfort!
Agreed.
Oh don't forget. You'll also be a better photographer if you buy a Leica or x100v!
Haha. Very true.
I will never „chimp“ again,…promised. 😅
😂😂
Do u need a flash
For what?
Fast 50, wide 28; SP is a long walk made interesting. A single lens can limit the experience and possibilities. Zooms waste time with decision making. Right on the button though about weighing yourself down with equipment.
I think a single lens can open up a different way of seeing the familiar but everyone is different.
@@yeohi It’s also a way of confusing oneself and not getting the shot at all!!
@@yeohi "Your best zoom is your feet." Ernst Haas
@@WalkLikeAlice Agree, on more than one occasion the "decisive moment" came and went while I fumbled with framing.
@@yeohi it doesn’t. I don’t use them. But in 25+ years of teaching photographers, zoom lenses are a problem to many. They are also big, heavy, and pretty obtrusive. But that’s just my opinion.
People are not enjoyable to capture for me. Rather find osmething interesting. More creative.
Creativity comes from the photographer, not the subject.