The reason I like this approach to portraiture is simple, the brief encounter with people who are generally really nice people is a wholesome experience. I also find that because the subjects are not as relaxed having their photograph taken, as they might be if the photographer were their best friend, it makes the portrait more about them than the image they wish people to see of them. In other words people aren't comfortable enough to put on a facade, the portrait shows them for who they really are, insecurities and all.
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i so wish i had the confidence to approach people in this way! your pics are great!
ReplyDeleteIt's really not that hard, you should make it a mission to do it before the year is out.
ReplyDeleteCouple of things.
1) Make sure you get your story straight.
When you ask if you can take someone's picture, the first thing they will say is "Why do you want to take my picture?". Now-a-days I usually say that I like taking pictures of people I meet in the street. I used to say, that I'm practicing taking portraits.
2) Don't let a knock-back put you off. The knock-backs that I get are 99.9% really pleasant people, they are not rude, they just don't want their picture taken. You'll meet really nice people and it will be good fun, trust me.
Thanks for the compliment.