Dear friend,

I believe street photography is the best tool to become not only a stronger photographer, but human being.

I. No fear.

First of all, shooting street photography will help eliminate some (if not most) irrational fear from your life.

Most of us have never taken a punch in life, and are fearful of others. We see others as scary, and unapproachable. This is what leads to prejudice, and racism.

In street photography I see everyone as my friend. I treat them like my friends. Lots of fist bumping, “what’s up bro”, of high fives. This build instant rapport.

A simple assignment when saying hello to a stranger:

“What’s up boss?” [extend fist to fist bump]

Or for someone else:

[Huge smile] how’s it going?

Whenever I see older women in their 60s or older, I imagine them like my mom. Or a friend of my mom. Instant rapport built.

I’m always trying to create a bridge with strangers. And street photography gives me an excuse. Because I’m not just a weird creep, I want to make a photo of them. So people trust me more.

Homework assignment: Give a compliment a stranger, and ask to make a portrait of them. The compliment is free, which boosts their mood, but you also get a photo out of it. Win win.

II. Push yourself out of your comfort zone.

The only way to grow as a human being is to push yourself out of your comfort zone.

For example, I personally know that if I just deadlifted the same weight forever, I would be bored out of my mind. Instead, every week I try to increase the weight by five pounds. This is what keeps it challenging and fun.

The best practical way to do that in street photography is to constantly push your personal boundaries and fears. Keep shooting stuff that makes you scared. And the more you face your personal fears in street photography, the better equipped you will be to face your fears in real life.

The homework assignment is to only shoot what you’re afraid of. If you see a person or a scene that doesn’t scare you, don’t shoot it. Rather, shoot what scares you shitless. Photograph people with face tattoos, or people you might otherwise be afraid of. You will find that those you generally think are scary are actually the nicest people.

III. Humanity is all one family

Are you scared of your mom, dad, brother, or sister? Generally not.

Why would you be afraid of a stranger on the streets? They are nothing but your brother and sister.

I treat everyone on the streets like they were my familia. No fear. I open up my heart with them, with no boundaries.

Like any good family member, I treat my subjects like I would want them to treat me (golden rule).

For example, I like to talk to people. So I generally prefer to talk to people before photographing them. I offer to email them a copy of the photos, or I show them the photos on the back of my LCD screen and ask them which one they like the most. I also offer to make a portrait of them with their own iPhone. I wanna spread the love.

I want to make the photo making process a two way street. Not me just stealing their soul, but rather, me giving a part of my soul to them.

Homework assignment is to photography at least ten people that scare you. Offer your hand, by extending it, and offering them a handshake. Introduce yourself first. And tell them why you want to photograph them. Be honest, one hundred percent. If you like their face tattoo, tell them. If you feel their eyes tell a story, say that. No bullshitting, no censoring.

IV. Just shoot it.

Lastly, when in doubt, just shoot it.

Don’t overthink this. Keep your camera in P, program mode, and auto ISO. Make your camera like an iPhone. And just photograph whatever interests you. With your camera, you just want to “set it and forget it!”

To never stop being inspired, pick up a copy of STREET NOTES, made with love and soul by Cindy and I, and HAPTIC INDUSTRIES. STREET NOTES will be your new best friend, and coffee shop companion. Keep STREET NOTES in your camera bag or back pocket, to always inspire you, when you are feeling bored, uninspired, or nervous in street photography.

You got this.

Be strong,
Eric

Street Photography 101 »