From time to time I like to give myself a project to try and enhance my craft and keep me interested. This year my project is street portraits. It definitely puts one outside of one’s comfort zone.

My approach is simple, I look around for interesting characters, approach them and ask can I take their portrait. I have only been declined once (a nun who was praying) it is disappointing but important to respect this even when it means missing a fantastic shot! Most people are actually really happy to be asked, I like to chat a little whilst I am shooting to set people at ease and get more relaxed photos. People have even thanked me for taking time to talk to them which is really nice. I always show them the shot after on the LCD and tell them my website address to see the image later. I’m thinking of having some business cards printed to make this easier.

 

I like to shoot wide open to get separation. One of the staff at Leica Store Manchester gave me the tip of focusing on the eye then moving your head slightly back and forward to find focus rather than use the ring (I’m sure people already know this but i thought it was a good tip). I like to shoot half a dozen frames whilst doing this to ensure focus is on the eye not slightly out. Though I do sometimes miss shots still and kick myself afterwards…

Anyway, here is one from a rather wet day in Kendal in the Lake District UK

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