Explore genuine street photography with professional camera strategies beyond the viewfinder
In the world of street photography, blending in with the environment is crucial for capturing unposed, candid moments naturally and discreetly. Here are some tips to help you improve your street photography skills, using a DSLR or mirrorless camera.
Focus on the Foreground
When composing your shot, focus on the closest element in the image foreground. This technique, known as zone focusing, allows you to quickly capture the scene without the need for precise focusing through the viewfinder.
Embrace 'Hip Shooting'
Photographers like Garry Winogrand and Alex Webb have made a name for themselves using a technique called 'hip shooting'. This involves holding the camera at waist or hip level without looking through the viewfinder. By doing so, you can remain unnoticed and capture spontaneous, candid moments as they unfold.
Use the Live View Mode
Switch to your camera's live view mode for more control over focus settings. This mode allows you to manually adjust the focus point and ensure your subject is sharp before taking the shot.
Adjust Your Focus Distance
If your lens doesn't have a marked distance scale, consider using apps like DoF Table to calculate focus distance. For double distance focusing, focus from one point to infinity, resulting in uniform sharpness throughout the frame. This technique is mainly used in street and landscape photography and requires practice for accuracy.
Minimize Shutter Noise
In busy environments, minimizing shutter noise is beneficial for discretion. Switch to manual mode (M) and select an aperture between f/8 and f/11. Adjust the ISO settings for a balanced exposure, and let the camera calculate the shutter speed. Some DSLR cameras also have a mirror lockup feature to reduce noise further.
Choose the Right Camera
Compact cameras are often preferred for candid street photography due to their low profile. However, many mirrorless cameras have a stealthy shooting feature called electronic shutter or silent shutter, which can be advantageous in quiet environments where a traditional shutter sound might be distracting.
Stay Unnoticed
To remain unnoticed, avoid using the camera's viewfinder. Instead, use the live view mode or practice 'hip shooting'. This will help you capture photos discreetly and blend in with your surroundings.
By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to mastering discreet street photography with your DSLR or mirrorless camera. Happy shooting!
