Response to "Street Photography"

Here is my approach on street photography which has served me quite well. Initially, I was very ethically conscious with regard candid street photography. After months of debates, I have come to the conclusion that it is really no different than doing any other good people photography...communication is the key. So, for the past couple years, I have been approaching individuals on the street or in cafes and starting a conversation with them. In Toronto, I find most people are very approachable, be it a homeless person on the street or a stranger in a cafe. Through the conversations, I try to show my interest in learning who they are. I want to share their joy or sympathize with their sorrows. I bring up the possibility of photographing them as part of the conversation. Then, once I have the permission, I leave the people and stay at a good distance and observe until they are no longer so conscious of my presence. That is when I bring up my telephoto and shoot. At the end of the shoot, I always go back to thank the individual and offer him/her a copy if he/she would like. I have to admit that this is a very time consuming process, but it really works for me. I hope, by sharing this experience, it will help those of you who are potential street photographers.

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