essential skills: digital photography in available light
Contact
The fi rst verbal connection with the subject should be considered carefully. Asking people for their
permission to be photographed requires a considered response on the subject’s behalf (‘What are
they selling?’ and ‘Who will see the picture?’ etc.). Unsure of the implications of consenting to be
photographed many people will refuse their permission. Once refused it is not always possible to
persuade someone that their acceptance to be photographed would have no further implications,
i.e. they would not be required to purchase the photograph, give consent for publication etc. The
fi rst verbal connection should simply be who you are.
Familiarity
Many photographers will arrange a preliminary visit to a location if there is time available. This
will afford individuals present at the location to get used to the photographer’s presence and
feel comfortable being photographed. This is especially useful at small or enclosed events, as it
may be diffi cult for the photographer to work unnoticed. If introductions haven’t fi rst been made
the photographer may cause some disruption at the event or activity. Successful environmental
portraits are often dependent on the initial interactions the photographer has with the potential
subject.
Interaction
Putting a subject at ease in front of the camera is dependent on two main factors.
- The subject is clear about the photographer’s motive.
- The subject sees value in the photographs being made.
Motive
Many people view an unknown photographer with curiosity or suspicion. Who is the photographer
and why are they taking photographs? It is essential that the photographer learns to have empathy
with the people he/she intends to photograph. A brief explanation is therefore necessary to help
people understand that the photographer’s intentions are harmless.
Value
Many people see the activity or job that they are doing as uninteresting or mundane. They may
view their physical appearance as non photogenic. The photographer needs to explain to the
subject what it is that he/she fi nds interesting or of value and why. If the activity the subject has
been engaged in appears diffi cult or demanding and requires skill, patience or physical effort, the
photographer should put this view forward. The photographer should continue to ask questions
whilst photographing so that the subject is reassured that the interest is genuine.