Originally posted by brownguy:
I just have a question; do you have any tips for photographing people? I've just started at my school's paper and it's still pretty awkward for me to take people's photographs. Do you just learn to push those feelings away or do you introduce yourself to everyone and ask permission or what? |
it all depends on what i'm shooting. if it's for an assignment where everything has already been set up, i engage my subject in light conversation, trying to get to know them a little and to trying to put them at ease. i'll ease into shooting them as they're talking with me, slightly directing/posing them as necessary. i'm mainly trying to get an interesting environmental portrait; and, i always make sure i get a few good headshots.
on the other hand, if i'm on an assignment that involves candids, i typically shoot first, then introduce myself as being from the paper and get their names, etc. every now and then, i'll introduce myself first, but then i'll get a basic headshot and then wander off so i can come back to get a truer candid when the subject is not as aware of me (it really depends on the type of shot you're after and how candid it needs to be, as opposed to documentary type shots or portraits).
the more you do it, though, the easier it is to push those awkward feelings away. good luck! |
