Actually, I got exactly what I wanted. Obviously my likes and definitions are different than yours. I have accepted that this is ok for me. Sticking a camera in someones face is not my idea of photography, although I will admit when I did do it, I was thinking of you. none the less, my street images are what I like in them.
Hello & Welcome to the forum,
I've had a look through all of the images you've posted and on a positive side I can see that you have a real passion for taking street images, you certainly have the drive for it and I respect the fact that your getting up off your behind and going shooting.
But I strongly agree with the constructive critique you have received. I also agree that you will benefit greatly if you accepted the advice offered.
Petemc, although quite the blunt and direct gentleman he is, is trying to help you to take better images. You clearly get enjoyment from photography so it's natural for someone who understands the genre to want to guide and assist.
The first issue that strikes me when looking at your images is that you lack confidence, the 'sticking the camera in folk's faces' part of your above reply illustrates that you have a confidence issue. It's not quite as bad as that but I think most people do feel a little uncomfortable taking a shot of someone on the streets, the only problem is it really shows in your images.
Most of the subject matter in your photo's is very far away, occupying very little of the frame and leaving a very disconnected image. I really like the image of the couple kissing in the water with the waves, my only gripe is that the strongest part of the frame occupies a only small percent.
My advice would be to ditch your tele lenses and go out and about armed with only a 24mm and 50mm prime lenses.
Scary I know, but you will get much more exciting results that will make you much happier.
Also cropping the hell out of an image to compensate for the proximity degrades the quality of the image significantly. Getting closer will give you a much higher IQ. Try to eliminate the need or desire to crop for a while.
I remember a quote from someone, can't quite remember who but it went something a little like this:
"If you think you have the shot perfectly framed, then take two more steps toward your subject!"
Try it!
The next issue is the context, there is a lot of incidental or 'plain' context, not many 'moments' that engage and captivate the viewer.
Focus more on moments, expressions, actions and spirit.
Have a good read through the links the Pete initially posted, Edinburgh Gary has inspired some very valuable discussions that take place within those threads.
Gary is very inquisitive and passionate with his images, he's not afraid to ask, he's not afraid to experiment or challenge himself and most importatnly, he's not afraid to fail. All of us can learn from this.
IMO, it's a priceless discussion to read and absorb if street photography is of interest to you (which it clearly is).
All the best
T.