Shoot What Scares the Shit Out of You

I was afraid to ask for permission to photograph this person at a “dive bar” in Tustin, California. I finally mustered the courage and asked. I’m glad I did.

Street photography advice: shoot what scares the shit out of you.

One.

We don’t know what makes a “good” photo, but we know what scares us.

When I see a guy with a face tattoo, I get scared. But whenever I am scared, my rule is:

I must shoot what scares me.

Fear is a good tool, if we use it to drive us forward.

Two.

I apply this to my personal life. Whenever I have an opportunity that scares me, I say “Fuck it” and I just do it. It is a good way of living a more fun and interesting life.

Three.

Push your boundaries.

Assignment from STREET NOTES;

You’re only allowed to shoot what scares you for a week.

You’re not allowed to shoot what doesn’t scare you.

This will be good: you’ll not only make more interesting street photos, but you will become a more courageous person.

And ultimately, that’s what street photography is all about: having more courage, guts, and huevos.

So friend, shoot (and do) what scares the shit out of you. Trust me, your life will be less boring.

BE STRONG,
ERIC

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STREET PHOTOGRAPHY 101 BY ERIC KIM