Photography Fundamentals – Photographing People (A Few Lessons in Approaching Subjects)

We love photographing each other – it is part of the fabric of being human. Becoming comfortable with this task takes a little time and initially a little nerve. But the power of being able to photograph people well is one of the most satisfying areas of Photography.

Many photographers would really want to know on how to effectively photograph people, as people are one of the most intimidating and frustrating areas of photography. How the heck does a National Geographic or TIME photographer go into those situations where he or she may not speak a word of the language and come out with those magical and involved photos?

In many ways, it really is a simple combination of confidence and interest. The confidence is gained by having approached strangers many times, as well as knowing your equipment. Taking real interest in another person and who he is is the other part of the equation. This is the heart of what we’ll talk about in this article.

Is there an easy formula to photographing people? Yes, there is! One of the most asked questions in photography is how to approach people on the street. I’ve found the best answer to this question is a demonstration. I’ll be with a group of trekkers and we’ll find someone on the streets we want to photograph. Eye contact with a friendly look is the starter, followed by an explanation of what I’m doing. And here’s a major hint: give yourself an assignment so your photographic mission has a reason to exist.

Your photographic mission can be as simple as “I’m shooting portraits for a photographic series I’m assembling” or “I’m shooting a photo project on the streets of your town.” What you’ll often find is an interest and a willingness of the subject to help you in your endeavor. Also, on your camera’s monitor, show your subject one of the photos you’ve taken of him or her – this may be the ultimate ice-breaker, and it can get your subject more interested in allowing you to continue shooting.

Bellow is a list of some lessons on approaching subjects:

• Don’t travel in a group. This can seem to your intended subject as though you’re part of a gang of camera-wielding attackers. Work solo or with as small a group as you can. If you’re out shooting with a spouse or friend, that person can help hold reflectors and carry equipment.
• Make eye contact with your potential subject. We’re all humans here, and the small task of looking someone in the eye shows that you acknowledge him. A smile can go a long way.
• Show interest in what the subject is doing. We all like to feel that what we do is of interest or have a degree of importance to someone else. Spend a few minutes watching or listening to your intended subject, and talk about her craft or work. Even it you don’t speak the language, you can visually interpret quite a bit by watching.
• Ask permission to take his photo. For sure, the times you will be turned down for photos is a tiny percentage of the times you’ll receive willing permission to photograph total strangers.
• Above all, show the subject respect and have the most amazing Photography experience ever.