stealth shooting.

[Marcuscarcus]

So my girlfriend and i need a bunch of photos of random people on the street for a photo project/blog. Should I ask each individual to pose or should I just snap away.
If i don't ask the people does anyone have stealthy photo taking tips. (i don't really know what i am expecting to hear from this but i thought I would ask)
thanks in advance.

[teaking]

I can safely say I have never done street photography before.. but there was an article on this site a weekend challenge I think. I think the general rule is depending on the style your after if you want portrait style shots ask the people to pose otherwise take your pictures and try to capture those moments that happen BUT ALWAYS ask afterwards for their permission to use the shot to respect their privacy.

Im sure the fella's in here with all the experiance will offer far greater advice

[Marcuscarcus]

Thanks for the reply. I am only going to be taking their face if they are wearing a hat (that sounds weird but it makes sense since its about fashion) If i don't take their face I feel as if I don't have to ask permission. True or Not.

[kirbinster]

I always use a long lens for this type of shot (I have a bunch as you can see in my sig). This way I can be far away and they have no clue that their image has been captured. These people never knew -

[kencaleno]

As you really want candid shots,you don't ask people to pose.I've been shooting street people for nigh on 50 years,and I have never had any problems with getting close to people and photographing them unawares. The idea isn't "stealth",(if you want stealth, go to Ninja school), but rather, being inconspicuous by using a small unobtrusive camera,(I currently use a Canon G3) and getting into people's faces,without being noticed-A big Slr and long lens will make people aware of your existence,and they will be wary of you. Ken

[kirbinster]

Originally Posted by kencaleno

.....-A big Slr and long lens will make people aware of your existence,and they will be wary of you. Ken

Well not really, with a 300mm or 500mm lens they will have no clue your are even near them -- as you don't have to be near them.

[Marcuscarcus]

well i have just been informed that we are probably going to need posed shots since we want to see what they are wearing. after discussing it i think we are going to ask to be courteous.

[kencaleno]

Originally Posted by kirbinster

Well not really, with a 300mm or 500mm lens they will have no clue your are even near them -- as you don't have to be near them.

But people around you will see the big lens and wonder if they are your next target,and will constantly be on the lookout for you-they may even be your next target, later on in the day!

Ken