„Buy a good pair of comfortable shoes, have a camera around your neck at all times, keep your elbows in, be patient, optimistic and don’t forget to smile.“
I think this is the best advice you can get as a Street Photographer.
Thanks to Matt Stuart for this iconic quote that I think deeply deserves a whole video because it focuses on what is really important.
If you want to improve your street photography substantially, you basically only need the 6 tips from Matt,
so let’s look a bit deeper into what every part could mean for your next photo walk , alright?
This is a transcript of this video:
Comfort is not just about the shoes
Yes, Matt Stuart couldn’t be more spot on.
Comfortable shoes are a Street Photographer’s best friend.
After all, what use is a world-class camera if your feet ache, or you’re trudging around in soaked shoes?
But don’t just stop at your shoes.
Being relaxed and comfortable is crucial for a fruitful day of Street Photography.
Dress appropriately for the weather, try not to stand out too much, and, this might sound basic but it’s important – do not leave the house hungry, thirsty, or tired.
I not only once made that mistake on a Sunday in July or August here in still very catholic Bavaria, and with shops being closed, I ended my photo walk early ,
because hunger and thirst…
well don´t really lead to great photos and fun in general….
So, be sure prepare yourself.
Grab a snack, a water bottle, and, if you’re a caffeine addict, plan for a coffee break.
Oh, and switch off from the rest of the world – put your phone on flight mode.
Trust me, you’ll be far more focused in these few hours of walking around with your camera.
Always have your camera with you
Alright, I confess, I don’t always have my camera around my neck.
But the point here is to always have a camera at hand.
What’s the point of owning a Leica M11 if it’s sitting at home when you stumble across a perfect shot?
I always carry my small Fuji, even if I don’t plan to photograph in my bag or backpack or in the pocket of my jacket.
For example on the way to the supermarket or when I am meeting friends. Believe me, it’s better to have a camera and not need it, than to need a camera and not have it.
Navigate through crowds unnoticed
As a street photographer, the ability to move through a crowd without drawing attention is a skill worth honing.
Matt Stuart’s advice of keeping your elbows in is a nugget of gold.
Practice shooting from the hip in crowds.
Move smoothly, hold your camera close to your body and capture interesting moments.
It’s like opening a surprise egg – you never know what you’ll discover.
Patience goes a long way
When Matt talks about being patient, he’s emphasizing an essential trait for a street photographer.
Always linger a little longer than you initially intended at a photo spot.
You don’t want to miss the decisive moment because you’ve already packed up your gear.
It’s better to devote more time at fewer locations to capture that one shot that really makes you happy and proud.
Stay positive, regardless
Even if your day out shooting doesn’t result in stunning photos, remember the other joys the day has brought.
You’ve spent time outdoors, soaking in fresh air and perhaps the beauty of your city or the energy of the strangers around you.
You’ve probably treated yourself to a great coffee, taken time to observe your surroundings, and honed your skills as a photographer.
Every click of the shutter is a step forward in mastering street photography, and every outing builds experience.
Let the small victories and positive moments fuel your passion, keeping you inspired and committed to making regular walks with your camera.
Smile! Show the world you’re friendly
No matter in which country on the world I did street photography – Bangladesh, China, India, the US or Taiwan, even if I did not spoke the local language – there is something which every human understands – a friendly, authentic, open,smile.
So when you are shooting abroad you are not aware of every rule in this society.
For example, in muslim countries it’s often difficult when it comes to photographing women, or, another example, in Taipeh I got lost in a district which was a bit shady, a mix of scantily clad women and guys that looked like the local mafia on every corner.
But in Istanbul I got away with photographing women wearing scarfs and in Taipeh, Shanghai or Daka with shooting in the shadiest districts because when somebody was staring at me I tried to put on my nicest smile.
And , so far – it worked. I think no matter where you are it’s always better to look like the maybe a bit naive but friendly guy than a creep.
So smiling is always a good idea.