Negative Space
Friday, March 19, 2010 at 2:15AM 
Homelessness is a very real problem, not only here in New York, but all over America. I believe these are the people that need a bailout, rather than the wealthy corporate bankers who already have more money than they can spend. As a photographer it's tough to see and photograph these things but it's my job to document what is happening around me.
The image below took me by surprise. I didn't expect the eye contact, but it just happened in an instant. To me, these eyes have a powerful, haunting quality about them. I know some photographers feel uncomfortable photographing people in public. I can't say I blame them. I used to be the same way until I learned a few tricks from my friend, Ted Fisher.
First, don't use a big telephoto lens, it will only make you stand out that much more. For street shooting, I use a wide angle lens almost all of the time. Next, work quickly and keep moving. This means having the camera on and out of the case, lens cap off, and your exposure settings pretty close to where they need to be. You can make quick adjustments, but if you end up standing there zooming in and out for any more than 3-5 seconds, chances are the shot is gone. Don't worry about creating a perfect composition every time. Part of the appeal to street photography is that anything can and will happen. Things you don't notice may end up in the frame. Often, this can create an even more compelling photograph.
Last summer I made this slideshow about the way the economy has affected New Yorkers. I believe it's still relevant today. The images were all created using many of the techniques I mentioned above. Music is by Kevin MacLeod, used with permission. I encourage you to share your thoughts in the comment area. Thank you.
Photo Instruction
Reader Comments (8)
That's cool Chris.
About a year ago up in CT I was "dared" to go up to random people, start a conversation, ASK them if I could photograph them and make a portrait of them while carrying on a conversation. So a friend and I walked around Mystic Village, he would point to somebody, and I would approach them. Absolutely nerve wracking! But I did it! I learned the best ones were the men either looking for their wives or waiting on their wives. lol
Kudos. A tough subject sensitively done.
Thank you so much for the tips. This has always been one of my fears, photographing complete strangers in public. I start to think that they might come running after me or most important they might be offended. They might question "why am I photographing?' Often times, I just take a snap shop with my photographic eye and memory...but good does that do, right? You've encourage me to be courageous and just shoot.
Lexi, that's excellent. I have a friend who has a similar approach here in NY. I prefer the more candid moments where the person is not posing for the camera. Just a matter of style I guess.
PJ, thanks, the situation is one that I don't take lightly so I try to be respectful while still getting the job done.
Angelica, glad to be of assistance. I used to think the same thing, but as I took more and more of these types of street images I realized no one was chasing me :)
Yes I agree. I perfer the candids too. This was more of a "I bet you wouldn't do this, Lexi." Well I am not going to lose a bet esp if I know I can win it! (I only agree if I know I'll win ;) ) Too bad for him that I'm such a social person! And there was a list info I had to get from each person ie: their name, where they are from, if not from the area why were they here, how they liked this place, etc etc etc. I actually carried on a conversation with a man who was deaf. (i just knew I couldn't hide my face behind the camera while I was talking)
Thanks so much for this post! I am in Okinawa, Japan, and I am constantly taking "mental" photos thinking.... man, that would be a great shot! I feel/felt so guilty about taking quick shots, and I can never get the nerve to approach and ask if I can take their picture... in English or Japanese!
Chris, when the person made eye contact with yourself did you find that you were compelled to possibly give them some change?
I ask because I've often found myself wondering what would the right thing to do in that sort of situation, I find myself in a bit of two minds about it.
Jeremy,
Anytime I see another human being struggling, I want to help. Unfortunately in New York, this sort of scene is way too common. I help as many people as I can, but not everyone. I appreciate your question as I've definitely had a similar thought. Thanks.