Street photos - Beginner

[mark_wilson]

Im looking on some tips for taking some street shots. What should i first set my canon to? Also anymore general tips on street shots would be much appreciated.

 

[Sparkles33]

If you're a total newbie to photography, maybe set your camera to auto and start looking at the settings that the camera used after you took the photo (they usually tell you). Once you see the settings used and what kind of f stop and shutter speed you're using for different conditions, then start putting it on manual on those and similar settings. Shoot in RAW and JPEG if you can

I'm only saying do it this way cause you don't really have time to go and learn and research stuff in time for tomorrow.

Let us know how you get on.

 

[BlackCloud]

Look in the people and portraits section and also general photo sharing sections for some ideas on street photography. I have been at it a while and it takes a bit of nerve to point a camera at people. If you look, many people take side on shots, just random shots, no eye contact, seems to be just routine stuff. When I look at many of my shots the focal length is around 30-35mm so you have to be pretty close, some people feel it is better to be further away so as not to be so intrusive and change the scene by making people aware. Some people use a shallow depth of field to isolate their suvbject, some prefer to keep the background in focus to set a context. You will have to adopt your own style. The main thing you should be aware of is what constitutes a public area where you can photograph, and generally it is outside on the street. As soon as you wander onto private land including buildings, shopping centres, car parks etc. the rules change. Also be aware of your safety, I have had a couple of nasty moments as not everyone wants to be photographed. I am very cautious of context if kids are in shot, generally avoiding it, and pretty girls with neanderthal husbands!

 

[RobC]

Good advice above, all I can offer is take a look at my efforts and do the exact opposite

 

[mrtoad]

its a digital camera and all your mistakes are free

shoot loads and do some reviewing now and again...sit in princes st gardens with a takeaway coffee and look at them
take some more...down the station as well and the bridges
its a toddlin town the burg...so enjoy it..

i would set on programme at asa 100 ...and look at the settings you will be better pleased with the results and learn a bit about film speed and how to tackle low light without letting the cam do it all

lang may yer lum reek..

 

[mid_gen]

When I first got my DSLR I forced myself to use it in Manual mode for the first few weeks. Sure you might fluff up your first few shoots, but it forces you to get to grips with the principles!

I usually use aperture priority when I'm out on the streets now.