Lesson on Street Photography
vivo India vivo_official

2023-08-23 18:29

Welcome to the world of street photography where the city streets are your canvas. And your chance to frame reality. So, get real and candid. Capture emotions, vulnerability, tears, smiley curves and spontaneity to capture dynamics. How about that face in the shade, the toddler with cotton candy on a bicycle, the family staying on the street, the girl dancing her heart out when it rains or a kid running after pigeons.


Street photography is a genre of photography that records everyday life in a public place and portrays human condition. More often than not the photographers capture strangers, their real expressions, the real emotion. They do not have any agenda but all they aim for is a good shot that reflects what otherwise goes unnoticed.

Figure 1, view larger image

As strict as it may seem, there are few rules to go by while pursuing street photography! The golden rules, we call them.


Rule No.1: Never say never!

What today you think is a bad photograph may turn into a good one with time. It is said that time smiles at the photographs in future. So, click what you feel, how you feel, irrespective of others teaching you. Photography is creativity.

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Rule No.2: Crop your shots?

The photograph needs breathing space. Give it as much as it requires. But if your wise judgment allows you to crop and make it short. Then go for it without second thoughts. Experiment and learn from your experiences. But always remember cropping is just an option/tool, don't really rely on it forever. Cropping is to enhance the story of the image and so should it be.

Figure 3, view larger image

Rule No.3: Good photographs should be shot on film camera? Check.

Vivoicers, cam is a device. You take your shot and place your bet on the device which you feel comfortable with. Digital and film one are different. Neither is better than the other, they serve different purposes. So, practice and see what works for you. You might be surprised by the end results.


The aim of this genre of photography is to give you the creative freedom so that you can make the most out of it. It isn't staged or directed, it happens as and when. It's the most authentic state of the subject. This photography can be and should be taken anywhere that sparks your curiosity.So be intuitive & push your limits and keep picking up stuff out of your comfort zone.

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So, let's end on a saying - Not all those who wander are lost. Some are street photographers too. 😉

Photography