Street photography can be an exciting and challenging pursuit, but for many of us, it can also be anxiety-inducing. If you're just starting out, you're not alone in feeling nervous about hitting the streets with your camera. In this post, I'd like to share some tips that have helped me conquer my own anxieties in street photography and get the most out of my shooting experience.
Tip #1: Ditch the Headphones
One of the simplest things you can do to reduce anxiety when shooting street photography is to remove your headphones. I love listening to podcasts as much as the next person, but when you have headphones on, your imagination tends to run wild with thoughts of what other people might be thinking or saying about you. This increases what's called the "spotlight effect," where we feel like everyone's eyes are on us, when in reality, everyone is just focused on themselves. To avoid this, try removing your headphones and embracing the sounds of the environment around you. This can help you feel more relaxed and connected to your surroundings, even in a busy city setting.
Tip #2: Remember Why You're Doing This
Street photography should be a joyful and fulfilling experience, not a chore. If you're feeling overwhelmed, try to remember why you first became interested in this form of photography. Maybe it was the work of famous photographers that inspired you, or maybe you simply enjoy capturing moments of everyday life. Whatever it is, try to tap into that source of inspiration and let it fuel your passion for photography.
Tip #3: Slow Down and Engage with Your Surroundings
Many photographers, myself included, tend to rush through their photography walks, but this can lead to missing out on important moments and feeling like an outsider in your surroundings. Instead, try to relax, slow down, and engage with the scene. This doesn't mean asking people for their street portraits, but simply photographing the architecture and environment around you. By becoming more present in the moment and feeling like a part of the scene, you'll feel less like a stranger trying to grab a quick shot and more like an artist capturing the beauty of everyday life.
Tip #4: Let Go of the Pressure to Create Perfect Images
It's natural to be inspired by the work of famous photographers, but this can also lead to added pressure when you're out shooting. Try to let go of the pressure to create perfect images and focus instead on enjoying the process of making art. Remember, there's nothing to measure yourself against, and the goal of street photography is to capture the world around you in your own unique way.
In conclusion, street photography can be an anxiety-inducing experience, but with these tips, you can overcome your fears and get the most out of your shooting experience. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced shooter, I hope these tips will help you feel more relaxed, confident, and creative when you're out on the streets with your camera. And as always, if you have any other tips or advice you'd like to share, please leave a comment below!