In a previous post, I spoke about personality types. At that time, back in January, most of the folks who answered the question and took the test were introverts, with the sole loner being my friend Richard, an extrovert.
Recapping, I am an INFJ, sort of a social introvert, if you will. 
This past weekend, I had interactions with many people during a volunteer opportunity. Of course, I took my camera with me. Cedric made an interesting comment that lead to this post when he said:
That’s a cool idea Paul. It would also be a good way for someone to get over their shyness of shooting strangers I imagine.
~Cedric
For a while, I enjoyed street photography, even bought a couple of Leicas … and subsequently sold them, too. Street photography is interesting. I like the results, but sometimes I don’t like doing it, other times I do. However, event photography is a whole different beast. Here, photography is expected and welcomed. The photographer is looked upon with great favor and lack of suspicion. Here, he or she, is welcomed, even sought out. For example, in the photo to the right, this lady saw me with my camera pointed at me, starting walking towards me and singing: “I’m a survivor!”, encouraging me to take her photo.
I’ve noticed that there is a completely different atmosphere. An atmosphere of trust. You can walk right up to anyone, point your camera their way and, if they see you, they will wave and start smiling; more often than not, they might not see you and go on about their business, totally oblivious to your presence or perhaps totally unconcerned. There’s a context. I’ve found this to be true in most any large gathering whether it be a parade or a protest. The photographer, regardless of whether or not they have a credential badge around their neck is welcomed, or at least not suspected.
With regard to Cedric’s comment, I suppose that this might be a training ground for those who want to do street photography, but this, based on my experience is much easier; That said, though, it could be my perception. There may be photographers who love the street and think it is very easy no matter where you point your camera. I guess it depends on your personalty and your personal view or fears that you may have.
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Interesting, Paul. I like the idea you suggest, to overcome the fear of photographing strangers by being in a more open-minded environment, with friends if I may say so. It’s just that, these images won’t be the same. I have tons of such images, but have hardly posted any. I only show them within that environment. To me, it boils down to what images I want to capture, as a individual, which ones that means anything to me. As you write, it’s probably in our personalities. I’m an asocial introvert, if I remember right.
Ove recently posted..Being part
Ove: This is most certainly a different type of photography, having only the people in common. It is people taken out of their normal routine and put into a common theme, if you will. And yes, it does come down to what you want to capture or show, those that have meaning to you. However, I would argue that, given a specific cause that you might be interested in, then the event might provide such photos as you would want.
I have, and always have had, a mixed feeling towards street photography. I love the form, I am uncomfortable in the doing. My favorite two photographic ‘types’ are 1) street and 2) landscape. They are, in many ways, very different beasts. Street is like improvisational jazz, while landscape is like opera. I am way more comfortable doing landscape, which is why I treasure my victories in the street so much more. I really don’t list to take a ‘landscape’ workshop, except that it might bet my access to places I would otherwise not get to. But I don’t think I would learn a heck of a lot from and landscape workshop. But I DO lust to take a great street photography workshop, especially one by Peter Turnley. Your feelings above mirror mine in an almost exact way.
Chris Klug recently posted..Vancouver Bus Stop
I love street photography – as long as it’s someone else doing it! But, I’m trying to change my perspective on it. At my age though, I don’t know, it would be like starting college when you retire, or something (I really admire those that can do that, by the way).
John – Visual Notebook recently posted..Father and Son
Interesting article. There is so much talk about fear of camera and it is interesting to read about the thoughts behind the camera. I found that people are surprisingly more comfortable having their picture taken than I thought. But, then, it probably depends on where you are. Surfers like to show off their prowess and like photos.
Michael Anderson recently posted..Packing For An Ad Lib Video Session : Part 1
I think there is something to be said for being “part of the team” at an event like this, especially one that is more of a celebration. Taking random photos of people on the street tends to create more suspicion, even if the intention is no less innocent. Personally I would always prefer the joyous response over the angry leer. Very nice emotional content here.
Tom Dills recently posted..More About That Boat
Thanks, Tom. I know what you mean. I prefer to be welcomed than suspected any day!
I think John summed up my feelings on street. I don’t have the social gene, so it makes me uncomfortable to shoot people I don’t know. However, I have volunteered to shoot some functions for some organizations and I have not disclosed my shyness.
I have to admit that to me, event photography (at least when it comes to private events) is even worse than ordinary street photography. Worst nightmare (for me) is the dreaded question from a friend or relative “Oh, you know your way around cameras – could you shoot my wedding (birthday, whatever,..)?” Brr….
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I will have to agree with you on this. I just photographed a wedding this past weekend in a photojournalistic style. She wanted images of the people, family and friends, rather than formal shots. It is very easy to get people to turn and present a comfortable smile at such events where on the street requires making closer contact to bring out the personality of the people. Just my thoughts.
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