Sometimes they say yes. Like this married couple I noticed in Santa Monica, Calif. People love having their pictures taken ... for the most part, at
least. It’s one of the sincerest forms of flattery.
Again, that said, I don’t consider it the most true form of street photographs. Yes, they’re made on the street but they usually include eye contact,
which involves the photographer and is sometimes reflected in how the subjects look at the photographer.
True, a photo of this couple in a passionate throe of making out would be a raw slice of life, however, this is still a slice of life.
Then again, it’s also a portrait.
Just because it’s a portrait doesn’t mean I won’t seize the chance of making the photograph, though.
I’m a photographer.
I’m not above making a photograph of any kind at any time.
Well ... perhaps I’ll never make high school prom portraits ...
Or do table top ...
But when I’m on the street sometimes I will ... ask.
I don’t prefer asking.
I prefer doing the covert for these moments are just so much more interesting.
Where a photographer has to be concerned is locations within private property. If you’re going to make photos inside a coffee shop, be prepared for
someone to ask you to leave if you’re caught. I got booted from a WalMart on assignment from The Wall Street Journal. I just smile and pretend
I’m deaf or don’t speak Engrish.
I could probably make up some excuse and flash my credentials, but my credentials may be noted and I don’t usually feel like getting a call from myeditors.
Sometimes one may be asked to not bring a camera in at all. Try putting an SLR under a jacket. Think you’re being covert?
I think not.
Try it with a rangefinder. You’ll see what I mean.