Shooting in public

[scott1120]

I am rather new at photoography (I have taken a ton of family snapshots).Then after seeing what I think would be a cool shot, I seem to get embrassed (I don't know if that is the word I am looking for)if I was out there with my camera. It could be that I don't have a fancy (read expensive) camera and equipment, but I always seem to wait and find a location or shot on the weekend at some park or secluded place.

Is this a normal experience, and has anyone else experienced this type social behavior?
How did you get through it? Since I am currently attending NYIP, I need to get over this behavior.

[jeffkohn]

I have the same tendency, and with respect to camera gear I think I'm probably more self-concious using a big SLR and lenses, because you're that much more conspicuous. It's one thing if you're in a place where photography is common or even expected, but I definitely get a bit timid in situations where there are no other cameras in sight.

I think it's something that you have to get over gradually, by just pushing yourself a bit past your normal comfort zone each time you go out. Eventually, you'll find that your comfort zone has started to expand and it starts to get easier. I'm definitely less self-concious now than when I was starting out a couple years ago, but still have a ways to go.

[CaptainTom]

Being self conscious is not something that you can't overcome.
I would suggest that you take your camera and frequent someplace that attracts other photographers. Go to the zoo, the botanical park, etc. Shoot some photos and watch other people taking photos. You could even get into a conversation about taking photos. Photographers like to talk cameras, etc. and you can always get a photographer to talk about his or her camera, lens, etc.
Starting out by taking pictures of scenery, animals, etc. will get you more comfortable with your self, your abilities, etc. Eventually you may feel comfortable enough to take photos of other people, and even to get paid for it.

[Jake]

Sounds pretty normal to me. It actually gets worse when you have a "fancy" camera.
I'm not one to photograph people I don't know in public without asking, unless it's a street performer or something of that nature because I'm a big wuss.
But if anything else I just shoot away and not worry about it. At the last TPF get together I was at a biker came up and said he did not want anyone taking picture of his scooter and he was kind of a d*ck about it. Like I wanted pics of his P.O.S anyway

It just something you will get over. But it is normal.

[Bruce M. Morris]

Jake, a good response might have been, "If I shot a photo of that thing, I would have to charge you for it."

[Jake]

Originally Posted by Bruce M. Morris

Jake, a good response might have been, "If I shot a photo of that thing, I would have to charge you for it."

hehe...yeah, I had a few responses I wanted to use....

[Boomer]

Scott - you have just as much right to be shooting as anyone. You have a decent camera, you're studying w/a good school to become better (which is more than a lot of us have done) and how is that going to happen if you don't give yourself permission to get out there? I think we have to push & challenge ourselves to improve.

Jeff's point is good. It is something you will get over gradually - we've all been there. It won't be long before getting the shot becomes more important than being embarrassed. You'll be drivin to go for it. I'm pretty shy myself when talking to other photographers, but I've forced myself to do it b/c I want to learn.

So go forth and shoot -- and be sure to keep posting -- excellent critiques here.

[Bruce M. Morris]

Scott,
When I was overseas, I was always a bit hesitant about what I shot because of not wanting to offend. I found it was always better to go out with someone, at least one other person, just for the companionship but also there was a sharing of ideas and ways of dealing with subjects. I know that each of us have lots of things we are doing, but might be nice to go shooting with someone on a saturday, even for a few hours. Anyone feel like meeting at the coffee shop next to FW Camera Supply?

[Bruce M. Morris]

Ooops.. left off the day.. I mean on Saturday..

[jerrykr]

If you are out and notice someone with a great looking dog, antique car, or something else interesting or a little bit out of the ordinary, be sure to walk up with your camera and ask to take photos of their pride-and-joy. Admire it, don't just take pictures. You will be surprised at how flattered they usually are, and you can get in some questions about where they got it, etc. You meet some really nice people that way, and helps you get over fear of intruding on someone's space. Usually you are not, they enjoy it as much as you do. If they say no, just respect that and move on, no loss.

Another idea, you can get some really simple business cards printed up at Staples with just your name and phone number or email address, and "Photographer" on it. Carry some, and if you want to offer to send someone a shot in email, they usually are appreciative. You can hand them a card, or at least have something to write on. 1000 will cost you less than $15.

-=- Jerry -=-
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[Michelle Allmon]

Take a shooting buddy with you. You can have contests "who can get the best ________ shot." It's fun!

[whaussies]

I am that way too. I also take photos alot of kids at ball games and since I am a professional with my dog show photography, I never want them to think I am trying to make money off them. I just plain like taking photos! But I get nervous when I am out because I do have a bigger then normal lens and I want to take pictures of things or people I see. But I don't want to ask because then it would ruin the moment I just saw them in naturally.

[Michelle Allmon]

I agree, it does ruin things. I don't want a pictures of strangers posing for me and smiling, I like candids.
When I take my big lens out people tend to get right up to my lens and smile, especially on 6th street at night. :) I had several 30-second exposures ruined that way. :)