How to Stop Feeling Awkward When Photographing Strangers

Street photography is one of the most rewarding genres, but it is also the most intimidating. Pointing a camera at a stranger feels unnatural and invasive to most beginners, leading to missed moments and anxiety.

Overcoming this fear is a rite of passage for any photographer.

The "Fishing" Technique

Instead of walking around and quickly snapping photos of people (which looks suspicious), try the "fishing" technique. Find a beautiful background with great light, frame your shot, and wait. When an interesting person walks into your frame, take the photo. Because you were already standing there, they will assume they walked into *your* shot, rather than you targeting them.

The Assignment: Go to a busy downtown area. Find a cool brick wall or a patch of dramatic light. Stand there with your camera to your eye for 10 minutes and photograph whoever walks through your frame. Smile if they make eye contact.

Confidence comes from knowing exactly what your camera will do. In my beginner photography course, Camera Zero to Hero, I help you master your gear so you can focus on the moment. Enroll today.