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Photo: Jubair Bin Iqbal

Street photography is a dynamic and compelling genre that captures candid moments in public spaces. Here are some tips to enhance your street photography skills:

Blend In:
Dress casually and avoid drawing attention to yourself. The more inconspicuous you are, the more authentic and natural your subjects will appear.

Use a Prime Lens:
A prime lens with a wide aperture (e.g., 50mm f/1.8) is ideal for street photography. It allows for more light, better background blur (bokeh), and is generally less obtrusive.

Understand Your Camera Settings:
Familiarize yourself with your camera’s settings, including aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. Being able to make quick adjustments will help you capture fleeting moments.

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Photo: Jubair Bin Iqbal

Shoot in Burst Mode:
Set your camera to burst mode to capture a series of shots in rapid succession. This increases the likelihood of getting the perfect moment in a fast-paced environment.

Frame with Intent:
Pay attention to your framing. Look for interesting compositions, use leading lines, and be mindful of the background. A well-composed shot can elevate your street photography.

Get Close:
Don’t be afraid to get close to your subjects. This proximity allows for more intimate and engaging shots. However, always respect people’s personal space and be aware of cultural sensitivities.

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Photo: Jubair Bin Iqbal

Observe and Anticipate:
Stay aware of your surroundings and anticipate potential moments. Being observant and predicting actions will help you capture decisive moments before they happen.

Use Shadows and Light:
Play with shadows and light to add drama and contrast to your photos. Early morning and late afternoon provide soft, directional light that enhances your street photography.

Shoot Candidly:
Capture authentic moments by shooting candidly. Avoid always asking for permission, as it may alter the natural flow of your subjects. However, be respectful and considerate.

Tell a Story:
Aim to create a series of photos that tell a story or convey a theme. This adds depth and coherence to your street photography collection.

Post-Processing:
Use post-processing tools to enhance your images. Adjusting contrast, sharpness, and color can bring out the best in your street photographs. However, be mindful not to over-edit and maintain the authenticity of the moment.

Be Patient:
Street photography often requires patience. Wait for interesting interactions, unique expressions, or compelling scenes to unfold. Patience often results in more meaningful captures.

Experiment with Perspectives:
Change your perspective by shooting from different angles – crouch down, shoot from the hip, or experiment with high angles. This adds variety and visual interest to your street photography.

Respect Privacy:
Always respect the privacy and feelings of your subjects. If someone expresses discomfort or asks not to be photographed, comply with their wishes.

Review and Learn:
Regularly review your street photographs to analyze what works and what doesn’t. Learning from your experiences will help you improve and refine your street photography skills over time.

Remember, street photography is a form of self-expression, so don’t be afraid to develop your own style and approach. Embrace the spontaneity of the genre and have fun capturing the vibrant moments of everyday life.

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Photo: Jubair Bin Iqbal