Why You Should Ask for Permission in Street Photography
One common misconception about street photography is that you must always be a fly on the wall, never interacting with your subjects. I’m here to dispel this myth and grant you the freedom to ask for permission. Engaging with people can open doors you never thought possible.
Closeness Isn’t Just Physical Proximity
“When I consider getting close in street photography, I consider an emotional closeness to my subjects.”
Getting close to your subjects isn’t just about physical proximity—it’s about emotional closeness. Asking for permission is a way to establish a connection, creating an intimate relationship between you and the people in your photographs. When you ask, you start a dialogue, allowing your subjects to feel seen and respected. This connection can lead to incredible experiences. I’ve been invited into people’s homes, driven in their cars on adventures, and even invited to weddings, funerals, baptisms, and celebrations.
Benefits of Asking for Permission:
- Opens dialogue and builds rapport.
- Allows for more authentic and intimate photographs.
- Creates opportunities for deeper experiences and stories.
Be an Explorer First
“Treat the camera as a passport.”
Consider your camera a passport—a tool that allows you to explore the world. In street photography, it’s crucial to remain curious and open to new experiences. Think of yourself as an adventurer first, and a photographer second. The camera is merely a way to see the world, positioning yourself at the right time to capture moments as they unfold.
Forget About the Pictures, Just Explore:
- Curiosity is key.
- Let go of technical concerns—composition, settings, layering—these are easy to learn.
- Focus on interacting with life and being present in each moment.
Photography is about being on the front lines, engaging with life and embracing the unexpected. It’s less about mastering techniques and more about being there when the magic happens.
Audacity
“Photography all comes down to whether or not you have the audacity to actually go out into the world and engage with life itself.”
At its core, photography is a simple medium. It’s about moving your body and recognizing the relationships between the elements in front of you. The real challenge lies in engaging with life—interacting with strangers, stepping outside your comfort zone, and embracing uncertainty.
Too often, photographers get caught up in their heads, trying to be master documentarians or visual storytellers. But in reality, it’s about letting go of that self-image. Be an amateur on the streets. Be playful. Embrace your inner child and have fun. Chat with people, show genuine care, and become emotionally invested in the world around you.
Key to Success:
- Don’t take yourself too seriously.
- Have the courage to engage with strangers.
- The more you care, the more natural the photographs will become.
Don’t Focus on the Outcome
“When I go out there with my camera, I’m not actively looking for photographs.”
Street photography should be driven by curiosity, not by the outcome. If you’re only out there to capture images, you’re missing the point. Photography should be the excuse to explore, like a cup of espresso that gets you moving in the morning.
Embrace the Journey:
- Go out without expectations.
- Follow your intuition.
- Walk with confidence and an open mind.
Treat the camera as a key that can unlock new doors, leading you to unexpected adventures. The goal is to remain curious—let your interest in the world guide you. Ask yourself this simple question before you head out:
“What will reality manifest to be in a photograph?”
With this mindset, you allow yourself to discover the world without pressure. The pictures will follow naturally, as a byproduct of your exploration and connection with life.
Conclusion: Embrace Curiosity and Connection
By asking for permission and embracing a spirit of exploration, street photography becomes an adventure rather than a task. It’s about connecting with people, embracing curiosity, and letting go of expectations. When you remain open to what the world has to offer, the moments you capture will be richer, deeper, and more meaningful. Pick up your camera, step outside, and let the world surprise you.