5 street photography myths that are holding you back
In life, there are certain belief systems in place, so robust, people see them as fact. They’re not. This mentality is also present in street photography. People from different eras and hierarchies share what they believe to be true and, over time, nobody stops to challenge them. That’s exactly what I am going to do.
Key takeaways
Don’t always wait for the perfect moment. Imperfect street photography can still be compelling.
It’s okay not to always carry your camera. Often, taking breaks can recharge your creative energy.
Don’t worry if you don’t live in a big city. You can still make compelling street photographs in small places.
I should preface this by saying this isn’t an attack on those who built the street photography community. Their advice has helped countless street photographers improve their skill set.
However, times change and things that held up in the past, may be limiting you in the present. With that, I’m busting five common street photography myths, and highlighting an alternative way of thinking.
Street photography myths: Video
Street photography myths: The decisive moment
Street photographers are taught to wait for the decisive moment; otherwise known as the perfect moment. This idea was born in the days of Henri Cartier Bresson, one of the early masters of street photography.
It is true, there are moments that you must capture in a certain instance. But, that’s not all street photography is about. My love of street photography stems from its variety. It’s raw, messy and can break all the traditional rules of photography.
If you’re spending time waiting for the decisive moment, there are likely many fulfilling street images you’re going to miss. I say don’t overthink it, remove the word perfect from your mindset and shoot in more of a flow state — while still being mindful of great timing.
Street photography myths: Always have your camera
Photo by Rachel Claire
The next myth is somewhat of a trap I fell into: always taking my camera everywhere I go. This isn’t at all bad advice. Having your camera to hand will certainly lower the rate you miss shots, but it’s not without its consequences.
Having my camera with me became a tick; I felt anxious without it. It also felt pressure to create every day and, over time, I was making photos, but I wasn’t really seeing them. It was more autopilot.
I find leaving my camera at home actually helps me recharge and regain perspective. The wonderful thing about the streets is there’s seldom a dull moment. A shot you miss today, will, in one form or another, still be there tomorrow — so take rest.
Street photography myths: Get close
The legend that is Robert Capa once said “If your pictures are not good enough, you’re not close enough”. There’s of course truth to this statement. Being close, in the mix, creates an energy in your images.
But I feel this statement has pushed some street photographers to channel their inner Bruce Gilden a little too much.
Standing at a distance actually allows you to fit more in the frame. You get a wider perspective and you can mix more narratives into the story of the photograph. In fact, sometimes standing way back, or even above can add value to your images, especially your street work veers towards minimalism.
That’s not to say don’t get close. You can, and you can make great work - Mark J Davidson is great at this style. But, I don't think it’s the only way to make compelling photographs. Don’t be afraid to stand back and create images from a different perspective.
Street photography myths: 10,000 images
Photo by Lisa Fotios
The story goes that it takes 10,000 images to get good at street photography. However, there’s a big difference from when that was said to the present day: film vs digital.
Back then, digital did not exist. Getting to 10,000 images took time and by nature, film photography has always been slower and more methodical. This slow pace means you get a deeper education over a long period of time.
With digital, some folks may make 1000 images in a single weekend. They won’t be good at street photography in their first 10 weeks. I say remove this from your thinking as today, it takes many more images to get good at street photography.
Street photography myths: Large cities
New York, London, Istanbul, they’re the best cities for street photography, right? Well, yes, many things are happening in these cities, but they’re not the only places for street photography. In fact, you can make good street photographs in small towns as well.
I say this, because a lot of people curious about starting street photography feel they can’t because of where they live. The stories of the streets are everywhere and there’s nothing stopping you from getting out in your local area and creating photographs. You can even tell a story on your single street.
In a way, you’re also at an advantage. The street photography community is oversaturated with images of the same “top spots”. Living outside of those places allows you to deliver fresh work to our eyes.
Signing Off
That’s it for this street photography myth busting sessions. No doubt there are more out there. I’m curious what other myths you think need busting. Let me know in the comments. If you’re looking to improve your street photography, I recommend checking out these four tips. Thanks for reading.
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