@^Demon Thanks
I introduce my 100 strangers project, and say it is street photography, and that I would love to make their portrait.
I generally pay them a compliment and say why I wish to take their photograph. I asked Vytaute above because of her style and said that she would look great against the vanishing background.
Jess has wonderful colourful hair (you can see the colour version in my 100 strangers project over in that part of the forum) and I said I loved her style.
Smile, be friendly and open and people will react the same in return.
I give people my card with all my contact details on. Its a one way transaction, I don't ask any details of the strangers beyond their name and a little about themselves by my asking an open question. Something as simple as what makes them happy?
Just something to get the conversation going.
I am a naturally talkative person, so don't find it particularly difficult approaching people but it can be quite daunting at first.
People will surprise you, go ahead and ask. The worst they can say is no really. I had two declines today in fact, I just thank the person for their time and move on.
Good luck with it, I'm sure you will be fine and once you get started its quite addictive.