How to ASK STRANGERS for PHOTOS

[@jamiewindsor]

*_Question: WHY AM I CARRYING SO MUCH GEAR?_* *Answer: Two reasons. Firstly, to test Pablo's assertion that the gear you're carrying doesn't make a difference. As Pablo was packing light with his set-up, I decided to overload myself. Secondly: A practical reason - we were obviously filming a video too. I had a tripod, microphones, cameras, batteries, a bottle of water etc. It's easy to grab a tiny camera and go out to make some portraits, not so easy to do that and also make a film of it. Despite what many people seem to think, I don't have a "camera crew" with me.*

[@PhotoheadShan]

I carry a bunch of gear with me and my first few videos you can her my voice cracking lol, my social anxiety is on full display in my videos.

[@ajiardiles]

Brain: It's time to improve our photography. Go and talk to her then take a quick photo. Also brain: Or we can do this tomorrow. Or any other day. Or let's learn landscape photography instead.

[@hachewie]

This is my brain too.

[@RodAllsopp]

And mine.

[@mangwenigumede5574]

My brain and your brain must come from the same hood

[@thesavageclips]

Ø

[@shauryakumar544]

Wait..That's mah brain..😐😐

[@richardloffhagen5339]

watched this yesterday, went into town today, spent 15 minutes telling myself I couldn't do it, then .... approached my first person, he said "of course", and immediately started chatting. I approached interesting people, they know they're interesting and seem to take it as a compliment that you want to photograph them. There's a couple of things I said which seemed to make a difference: I said I was doing a street photo assignment, they seemed to want to help; I said "can I take your picture", instead of photo, a little more informal; If they said no, I said "I'd have probably said no too", and left with everyone smiling Thanks for the video, I have so much confidence from this after day one

[@UploadN0ob]

Some tips: 1. Tell them your name - make it more personal. 2. Tell them where they can find the photo of them or show them the image you just took (e.g. give them your Instagram or offer your email - so it doesn’t seems so one sided - people feel like they are getting something out of it i.e. a free portrait of them) 3. Tell them the reason you are taking photos (freelance - if they don’t understand it’s okay to lie and say you are doing a uni project or something) 4. Make sure to shake their hand and say thank you (again be personal rather than a complete stranger)

[@jamiewindsor]

John Smith 1. I think telling them your name is a great idea. 2. Definitely let them know where they can get their photo, but do this afterwards. 3. It’s good to let them know why, but I disagree that it’s okay to lie. This is just from my moralistic position so everyone can take their own judgement on this. 4. Definitely thank them, but use your judgement to see how long this should go on for. If people seems like they might be in a hurry, just say “Thanks so much. Have a great day.” If they look a bit more relaxed then take a little more time if you want.

[@med4u1]

I disagree with telling them your name. To me I would automatically think the person is trying to sell me something... or that there is a catch

[@masterxyr]

I'd add another reply to when asked why I want to take the picture: "you just caught my eye/you stand out of the crowd" both, in a positive way. Most people enjoy a compliment. Of course, some of the strangers are privy to that or assume that to be the case.

[@SoapinTrucker]

@@med4u1 Right, it could get creepy! :O

[@johncooney417]

Also, have a really good colourful business card that shows examples of what you do. Be pleasant and straight off, explain that you’re not trying to sell anything.

[@mchlkbrz1645]

Man I wish I didn't have the body language of a sociopathic serial killer when I try talking to strangers.

[@stephyj4551]

Mchl Kbrz let them know ur the craigslist photographer and u would want some real secrative photos in a non disclosed location. Ask them not to bring a cell phone or anything with a gps that works all the time

[@serge8314]

Serial killers usually have charming personality. ;)

[@dorothylyner6660]

Lol!

[@cliveadams7629]

Maybe leave the machete at home?

[@tanzenistsport]

Stop making up reasons: P

[@looppp]

"I'm doing some street portraits, do you mind if I take your photo?" That's such a great line. Right now I do the Phillip line of "Hey how's it going? Do you mind if I take your photo?" which usually leads to "oh what for?". Stating your intent in the get-go is so great.

[@cc-xe3qo]

Man Pablo really missed the mark with the cigar guy. A full body would have included the dog which is the most interesting part!

[@TheCampbellseth]

Dime a dozen blurry background pic that will be lost in a sea of Bokeh. Totally agree, there was potential there

[@nkosiakinlabi3135]

Thats the thing about photography, each eye sees something different.

[@cashino]

Exactly my thoughts too~

[@phoenix9999]

How dare he forget the dog!

[@ERoossien]

Jup

[@davidboje9241]

These approaches are also applicable towards helping to overcome other various social challenges and day-to-day anxieties we face. They are often more excuses than valid reasons to not try, and “failure” is far less relevant than we fear 👌 it’ll be ok. They’re just people, just like you. Look, you already have something in common! Great video. Thanks!!

[@liseernie]

I think i am alot older than either of you - i agree with all you say - except to add that people in general have no patience at all with someone who is learning ANYthing, and it is very off-putting...

[@thecrowfliescrooked]

"where do I see the pictures?" I've made very simply business cards up with my name, mobile number and insta handle up. That way I can just give them my card.

[@benharris3949]

Your cuts are just masterpieces in their own right 👏👏

[@TheSH1N1GAM1]

Especially when I was young, I did not like to have my photo taken. If someone says no, it probably has nothing to do with you. They might just be anxious. I was even interested in photography back then and I still wouldn’t want my picture taken! I have not tried street photography before. I think I need to get past my fears and give it a try.

[@peter2kx]

It’s also important to remember why people say no in the first place. Maybe they really are in a rush somewhere, or they feel like they didn’t dress well, or they are just shy with photos. I’m sure we can all relate. You really shouldn’t take it personally because 99% of the time it’s nothing to do with you. Just move on to the next person.

[@barrettbailey]

Carry cards with you or some sort of handout so that the people can 1. find you and download their photo, Give them something and they will be more apt to keep up with you. 2. It's a PERFECT chance to get people to look at and subscribe to whatever you are doing. Blind encounters can turn into friends, relationships and or great business connections. Also carrying a photo backpack and having good equipment will also put people at ease a bit more rather than just carrying a small camera around. People judge when a stranger stops them so give them the piece of mind that you are a professional and look the part. Just my two cents. Great video!

[@NousSpeak]

A smile and direct eye contact will get you amazingly far in this world. What helps is stuff like good hygiene, grooming, and dressing your best. With photography it can help to present yourself either casually professional in terms of neatness and cleanliness of appearance, but sometimes you'll gain more ground by looking a bit "artsy" which helps build credibility for presenting yourself as a street photographer. Pablo hits a nice blend of avoiding collars (you don't want to look TOO professional), but still appropriate for a workplace casual look. You may have to adjust your look depending on who you're trying to photograph, but in general studies have shown people are more willing to work with you if you look a bit wealthy (really interesting studies out there involving a dime left in a phone booth, look it up).

[@ThatLovinGalLeonore]

I just had the worst interaction with another human after asking to take their photo. I was shocked! I thought to myself I may never ask anyone ever again, but after watching this I might! Thanks for making this video!

[@stulora3172]

Two comments on this: one, in no other video you smile as much as you do in this one. Probably partly the nerves, but also contact with people make us happy, doesn't it.... and two: THANK YOU! I finally made the step to ask people on the street to take their photo instead of using long lenses O_o

[@PhylumFile]

Jamie- I’m late to the party here but want to let you know you’ve touched me. The best part of KZbin is stumbling upon someone on the other side of the planet you’ve never met. Thanks much for such a valuable lesson, thanks for turning me on to Pablo and finally- I’ve had a difficult week. Thank you so much for making the clouds part a bit. Inspired and subscribed!

[@devanand2121]

Your editing is dope!!!

[@steven2809]

Dev Anand You are the dope...talk English!

[@RevolutionaryToad]

Dev Anand watch peter mckkinnon channel, he is the king of videos^^

[@loganhunt8029]

Steven Dean okay boomer

[@bateauivre5146]

you are so right about the fear barrier! if you get over it, life is not as it was! it gets much more interesting and not only in photography! great video guys and great tips!

[@thwaitey]

I was grinning by the end of this video. I've been dying to do some proper street portraiture for ages and this has given me the confidence to finally give it a go. Thank you.

[@LucaRigoli]

This video is a Thumbs-Up no-matter-what just after the first 40 seconds.. ahahha

[@maryphipps-seward5995]

Jamie, I applaud you first for caring about what "the other" feels; secondly, for admitting your fear. and, thirdly, for going out to face it head on. Thank you for sharing that entire human process!

[@gnahueldiaz]

Is amazing seing how a experienced photographer as Jamie struggles with something like stopping strangers to take their picture. In some way it encourages me, I thought I wasn't able to stop strangers because of lack of experience, but now I see is all in my head really.

[@bilalbawab5568]

Such a great quality content, I always hesitate approaching people with too many excuses in my mind. time to get rid of them. "the more you got rejected, the more you're gonna do it"

[@brettmaguire6973]

Cracking away at the walls of fear is always so liberating. Thanks for your honest share!

[@triggrhaapi]

This is rapidly becoming one of my favorite channels. I like your motion graphics design a lot. It makes me want to start messing with motion graphics more and more and even though they are little throwaway vignettes to act as dividers, they make this feel so much more quality.

[@jamiewindsor]

Jason Mueller Thank you. I like to play around with my editing and have a bit of fun.

[@CaviteTechnology]

why is this such a vsauce 3 styled video, don't know if you know vsauce but great video as always man!

[@jamiewindsor]

CaviteTech People keep saying this about my videos. I haven’t checked it out yet.

[@walterherrera3733]

@@jamiewindsor it's because of the background music. That's it, I notice that as well.

[@jamiewindsor]

Walter Herrera Interesting. The music in this was played by me trying to imitate the style of incidental music from Stranger Things.

[@walterherrera3733]

@@jamiewindsor Indeed it has a "Retro" "80s" "synth" style to it which is what Vsauce will use from time to time. Great video and music by the way. Hopefully one of this days I will go out and fight my fear to talk to strangers. You are an awesome creator Jamie.

[@findrichie1]

This was a rare video where you see a dude challenge himself and grow in a meaningful way. All while connecting with people. Thanks for this!

[@avs4365]

Problem I have in asking people to pose is that you end up with a load of photo's (interesting tho some may be) of posed faces which means a sort of 'I'm on camera' look. Street photo's in my opinion are best when the subject is unaware and you get a far more natural result. Personally I don't talk to anyone unless approached and then I'm polite but firm stating I'm interested in social history and if they wish me to delete an image where they are prominently the main subject I will do so. However I will stand my ground if they are part of a crowd on a street. My usual response to 'Why are you taking pictures?' Is to answer, who are you? And why do you wish to know? As I have a perfectly legal right to photograph in public places but not harass. Just a different approach - good video:)

[@jamiewindsor]

Candid street photography and portraiture are two completely different genres of photography. I'm working on a video at the moment about the ethical dilemmas of street photography. It will be one of my next few videos I expect.

[@avs4365]

Great, looking forward to seeing it

[@avs4365]

Yep, can see where you're coming from & as with all photography, what matters is if you are pleased with the result. However, individual human portraiture, that the subject controls, rarely conveys anything other than the pose they wish to present. Which is great if they are paying you to produce something they wish to own, while capturing the unguarded moment is often when something deeper appears. With the introduction of 'selfies' people are posing ad nauseum, so to repeat the process seems rather pointless -but then, that's just me and me age I suppose, cheers:)

[@davymike761]

This video is about portraits, not street photography in it's classic sense. Two different things.

[@akal1236]

And that is what separates the skilled street portrait photographer and the not so skilled. If you are genuine in your interaction and make your subject relax you can get rid of that face, make sure that they are neutral and not overly smiling like most people will instictively do.

[@OniricChef]

Adore how humble and approachable you are. You gained a sub!

[@carlostico9694]

I enjoy talking to total strangers and I often do it, always politely and with a smile and. It's not something that I go out after for, it just happens. Don't be afraid of people, we are all about the same.

[@jammin023]

This was exactly the video that I needed to see right now. Approaching strangers has always been hard for me, and I think that maybe doing it to ask to take their picture will be the gateway to bring able to do it more generally. Going through the fear and rejections is the only way to advance. Thank you.

[@Azertyvo]

Jamie, one of the reasons why I like watching your videos is that they're very straightforward, you speak simply about things that are very interesting. As opposed to most KZbinrs who use a lot of lame techniques in the script, the editing, the way they modulate their voice, all these clichés that clutter the purpose, when they have one. This is to say that I don't understand why you sometimes use your hand to underline the numbers you mention. As in "I can think of five reasons (open hand straight in the camera)" or "the third reason (three fingers raised)...". It gives me the feeling that I need to be explained what five means. Or that I can't focus enough to get the info that we've reached part three of the speech. Don't get me wrong, I'll say it again, your videos are very interesting, elegantly made and I get a lot of food for thought. But maybe they're so well donc that I don't understand why you use that particular technique that doesn't belong here. in my humble opinion.

[@AnthonySchnitzel]

"It hurts you a little bit inside" hahaha

[@twiglet2214]

It's amazing the variety of things that your brain comes up with to tell you not to do something - i'm inventing excuses so that i don't have to confront my fear ! So true.I lived on my own and had a dedicated meditation room. One evening i sat down to meditate and all was well,lovely incense burning and i felt very comfortable and at ease. However,about 10 minutes into the sit i had an overwheliming feeling that there was someone in the room,directly behind me. It became more and more intense but i remembered the story of the Buddha meditating in the jungle and a lion came up so close that he could feel it's breath . He just carried on meditating. So i thought to myself "ok,this is what fear feels like,but at least i know it won't be a lion sitting behind me " . Slowly but surely that mental state changed and the thought of someone being present in the room dissipated and i regained equilibrium . Remember - i had sat down to have a peacefull meditation but look what happened. It was a pivotal moment in my life,one which i will never forget. Sometimes there can be small but significant moments that can change us. Actions have consequences and i have got a lot from watching you and your rationale around ethics and representation. You are an inspiration - thank you.

[@jimrowley1892]

Thanks for this video. Bit the bullet and tried this yesterday as I wandered around Gloucester. Success rate: 100%! OK - I only asked half a dozen people but all were amenable and happy to engage in conversation (one of them for half an hour...) In one morning I have gone from terrified of doing this to being quite confident. I am sure there will be refusals in the future but I can't believe how easy this was once I overcame the initial fear. My approach was to make it obvious I was out taking photographs but to, first, engage someone in conversation before asking. Can't wait to get out and do it again.

[@commentpolice676]

With digital, net publishing, social media, time and geo tagging, it is now more of an intrusion into someone's privacy and choices than ever before, it's good to see togs recognising this and changing their approach.

[@BarkandJack]

Brilliant video chaps. I asked a lady on Oxford Street if I could take her photo, there was a massive rejection and I didn't dare try it again. I really should get over that fear of rejection. Cheers.

[@adrianchong3264]

great tips! seems easy enough to do

[@jamiewindsor]

Adrian Chong It really is. And the more you do it, the easier it gets.

[@HamishJoy]

Great video. I think pushing through the fear barrier is something that will help in any context, not just photography. Cold calling prospective clients, asking for a raise, bargaining for a second hand item - whatever it is, you tend to get better at it after a few tries simply because you become more confident.

[@photobech]

I think your approach to people is correct, regardless of whether or not they accept the photos. Other photographers make noises to make people turn to take pictures or take hidden photos at chest level, I don't like that. Being self confident and honest is the key.

[@MajorKlanga]

I'm glad you did this video as I've been watching the Streets of London videos and wondering how Pablo Strong gets does his interviews. I suspect a winning smile helps.

[@remagairsoftllc]

Shame you can't get the pictures back to the people, they'd probably be thrilled

[@jammin023]

If they want it they can ask, I'll have business cards on hand for that so they can get in touch. But no point handing them out to everyone.

[@arbee1958]

You can give them an instagram or web address and tell them the pic will be on there ... easy to print out a bunch with some labels and give them to each person ... :-) Business cards are a possible

[@vondanewsome]

Thank you, Jamie, for this video. You faced your fear head-on, conquered it and are truly enjoying doing what you had previously feared. Very inspiring!!!!

[@ducatitastic]

In my experience if you expect to get rejected then you probably will be, as mentioned in the vid - be confident, be natural and smile.

[@qbnscholar]

Lately I started doing street portraits at street festivals/gay prides. Often, I start to dance while I am walking around and when I approach people they get into my own having a good time and they love to pose for me. I am sharing my good time with them and they usually gladly pose. For me, it is about the connection, even if fleeting. Congratulations Jamie, for taking a leap and soaring.

[@masiguru9982]

Notice he never asked them to smile? The subjects personality comes out when you let them decide how they want to pose. These images show the people just as they are. Great video.

[@satart6080]

Thanks a lot - great to see how you overcome your shyness to ask the people and lovely to see the nice pictures of these "strangers"..

[@TALONIAN2]

Wow man your videos are miles above most others in this genre of youtube content. Please keep up the good work, the concise lessons, and the unique information.

[@bobdecker166]

I very much enjoyed watching your video, Jamie. I like your straightforward and unpretentious way of presenting yourself. Everything you said about stranger portraits has been true in my experience. I completed the 100 Strangers project on Flickr a couple of years ago, and it was a fantastic as well as a challenging experience. I learned how open most people are to us if we are honest and sincere in what we do, I would say about 75-80 percent of the people I approached said yes, once I got past the initial lack of confidence. Thanks for sharing this with us.

[@rickymcc9072]

Thanks. Some great points. I think that being 'happy, smiley, relaxed' yet still purposeful and professional helps. I try to avoid wearing sunglasses (or push them up) for eye contact. Projecting a sence of honesty and integrity is important to success as well as listening to and trying to relate to your subject. When travelling abroad, I have discovered that just one or two foreign words, a smile, non threatening body language and gesturing to one's camera can be enough. Hardest thing is a good uncluttered background that doesn't distract, yet retains some context and relevance. I try to see/find appropriate backgrounds first, then ask potential subjects. I like 'street' because I like talking and engaging with people - especially characters. It initially seems hard (just as you observed) but really does get easier with practice. Biggest issue I have with short verbal exchanges (my limited language skills) and foreigners (when I'm travelling overseas) is to have subject retain their natural look and not 'kill the shot' with a smile or 'cheesy grin'.

[@erniebarreto]

Could you comment on your experience approaching strangers on your own, without a camera crew?

[@michaelangeloh.5383]

Good point. - It really changes the dynamic for both parties involved. The photographer might be more confident being recorded by a friend, and the stranger might think "Oh, they're just doing a project or something.".

[@jamiewindsor]

Camera crew? I don't have a camera crew. It's just me (and Pablo in this case). I've done this with and without having someone there filming it but how can I film the process if I don't have anyone filming it?

[@erniebarreto]

Jamie Windsor What I mean is, I suspect one’s experience is different when it’s just you, alone, doing this. When I’ve done it in the context of a workshop or class or whatever, it seems to give me permission to approach people. When it’s just me, I feel like I don’t have that permission.

[@jamiewindsor]

Ernie Barreto I get it. The only difference is the confidence in your head though. The process doesn’t change.

[@maryphipps-seward5995]

My biggest problem with asking is that I usually lose what drew me to the individual to begin with.....the TRUTH, the spontaneity. I feel that all is lost when the smiling and posing comes on the scene. It is never a big, fake smile that I am drawn to! While watching, it occurred to me that asking after taking the photo might be helpful. Of course, they'll want to see the image and then you may be rejected on the fact that they don't look as "good" as they'd like. Oy, it's a very delicate situation. I have the utmost respect for excellent street photography! I'm an old lady; so, I definitely have that in my favor.

[@jjonestowne]

Taking people's photos seems SO INTIMATE to me! Like a connection I just hardly ever have w/ people. I never get that close...no, I'm never SEEN getting that close.

[@thanosnfinity8109]

It's a lot better to take photos of people on their natural environment as they walk around or doing their thing. You just have to be real quick and then leave without seem like you did something bad. Most people don't mind to take photos of them and if they do they will let you know about it and then that's all. Anyway streets are public and open to anyone which means that you should expect a lot of things, for example personally I don't like to see drunk people walking around but I can't force them not to wall around, because streets are public. Same with photographers, they are there doing their thing even though some people may like it or not. No one can say to you anything so don't be afraid to shoot anyone you like. There is no law saying don't take photos of people, as long as you are on public places you are safe.

[@aftermanyasummer2585]

A good thing would be to hand out a card linking to your blog or site when you've just got a portrait of someone. Looks like people are kinda waiting for this after the picture was taken but are to shy to ask for it. Great step forward for you on approaching people btw ;)

[@carlosnunes5717]

It`s quite simple and obvious, and it works when you have an emphatic face and and smile easily. One can improve with experience, but for others it will never work as good. Nice video.

[@Thato]

This is one of the most wholesome videos I've watched in a long time.

[@ThePhotofit]

I always offer to send them the photo either by email or text. I also give them my business card with my contact details on it for them to contact me should they wish and to view my work. I think this stops the fear many people have - and which have been carefully cultivated since 9/11 - that prevents them acquiescing to your approach. A very useful and smart video!

[@TheSwordbird98sPage]

Here’s a tip from my photo teacher- take the photos first and ask permission after. This way you get natural appearances/less awkward expressions. You can delete them if they say no or you can take close ups/posed photos if they say yes.

[@allirogorilla]

Love the intro title sequence! awesome job - made me grin like the Joker.

[@graciemartin4206]

Absolutely loved the opening !

[@davidbennett5354]

THANK YOU FOR THIS... Only tried street photography for the first time a few weeks ago and only yesterday I put off asking people if I could take a picture so most of my shots were kind of covert; however after watching you and Pablo in this video I feel a lot better and more confident for the next time I go out.

[@missyisit7]

I love how your photographs came out !!

[@peterkovic2241]

Great video. Concise, to-the-point, insightful, and the video example was superb. I'm excited to try some of the tips and tricks Jamie and Pablo suggested.

[@brainfreeze1925]

Hey Jamie . . . I just have to say that I enjoy the creativity and artistry in the actual video as much as I appreciate and learn from its content. Great stuff . . . cheers!.

[@angelluisphotos4842]

Hey thanks for making this video. I suffer from the same thing you have, I am super shy and been trying to get out of it for years. Photography has brought me out of the shyness a bit but I I still get a bit of anxiety when I approach strangers. I make so many excuses in my head not to and I over think it till the point where it becomes too late to ask them or spark up a conversation. Because of your video I am going to start going downtown to start practicing and stop worrying about being rejected. Thank you for all the advice.

[@Grievas85]

That's one of my fears! I'm not even finding excuses anymore, the thing that I say to myself is just "nah, you are to scared to ask, just keep walking" :P

[@GBO76]

Pablo's smile is probably helping a lot.

[@topixfromthetropix1674]

I do some street photography and videography in Asia and often don't speak the language of those I wish to photograph. A relaxed attitude and a big smile are very productive, for me. If you're nervous, people pick up on it and it makes them nervous. Regards!

[@DPac9]

This was an awesome production and collaboration of being alive with photography and not always go with an agenda with the camera. Am doing this! Thanks guys!

[@nsclip2574]

I tried it before, I was waiting for a friend and I saw these two lady taking pictures, so I approached them and asked if I can photograph her, and she liked it I made her smile, It's really a fun thing to do, and I would probably do it again, I have social anxiety and very awkward and I think I just have to face my fear and be more confident and open.

[@MatthewWagnerFilms]

That intro doooo! 🔥🔥 great video very encouraging!

[@joesterx]

Intro is on point! Transition on point! Dialogue on point! ... very nice I will likely be subbing very soon! Kudos Jamie.

[@rjohnmitchell2145]

Man, you're a true artist with your editing skills.

[@justingooch6201]

Hehe, just found your channel and having a look through. Used to do Street Photography many years ago. Love this, nice play on the 'Stranger' thing. Excellent presentation throughout your videos Jamie

[@drum4life42]

Thanks. This is going to help me approach people without feeling so awkward.

[@wereallpinkinside8452]

you’ve come at this so well, i’m very impressed. and i can’t wait to start street photography, myself!

[@UncompressedWAVmusic]

Awesome and simple thanks the two of you.

[@Tubularjake]

One of your best vids man! It's always cool to see someone face a fear, and overcome it. Good job!

[@timssprachbox]

Authentic and relatable. Well done! 👍🏻

[@TheRitualChannel]

James, I love your messages. Your editing is spot on too. Please keep up the good work, and helping the world. Thank you.

[@lefthandright01]

I don''t a lot of candid portraits, but when I do, I treat them as if I am asking for a pay raise. If you can't muster the courage, and justify why you're worth it, then you never deserved to have it in the first place. One key thing I would recommend, keep a half dozen previously edited images on your phone. Be polite, explain why you want this, and having one or two examples of what your hoping to create will generally go much further with people. This also works well with police when they find you in abandon facilities..having a few urbex style photos helps present the case you're just here to document, not to damage.

[@alicialeepresentsbts5308]

AMAZING intro. Great job. I’m relocating this fall and will definitely try this while scouting the area!

[@jamesvalentine925]

Anxiety gets in my way a lot with this, as you say though it's just an excuse really. Back in my late teen years I had a mohecan, plenty of piercings and often wore a suit. There's a lot of photos of me out there that I've never seen. I spoke to many really nice street photographers back then.

[@TheCottonboy76]

It looks really interesting, I admit that I'm not very good at interacting with strangers but I think that with this I can learn to break the ice and meet people. great video thank you very much!

[@LightsOnMultiMediaMindArts]

I’ve been a street/walkaround magician for a number of years and approach people much in the same way. A tip I would add is to rely on the camera around your neck (the perfect prop) to bridge the gap between you and your subject. A quick approach would be to 1) make eye contact, 2) lift eye-brows quickly (aka eyebrow flash -- look it up in Wikipedia) 3) lift camera and make a gesture toward the subject and wait for confirmation. The camera and your gesture explain everything. (Not that redundancy isn’t a good thing.) You don’t need to say much if anything. Saying, "I'm a street photographer," should cover everything as obvious as it is, but if your subject seems eager to talk then have your chat. I’d suggest that you show the subject the results on the back of the camera. It's a kind of social handshake, an acknowledgement on your part of the value of the subject.

[@aristoioannidis7490]

Great stuff. I do it a lot in Sydney. Some days you get a few rejections, others you shoot a whole roll of 36 Portra and not missing a beat. Thanks for your update. Great reinforcement.

[@MrHaydnSir]

no matter how much better my photographs get .. whenever i watch a video like this or one about photography ..i just lose my belief i’ll ever be that good 😕

[@je_ro_me]

Awesome video Jamie. Really really good content!!

[@joshzaring]

Thanks for creating this video. I struggle with this in exactly the same way! I have been wanting to do street for a really ling time and every time I have the chance I totally chicken out.

[@bluetongueliz8734]

Thank-you for this. I've been trying to overcome this fear of street photography and asking people for portraits. I always wanted a video that covers the social element of photography. I'm glad I don't have to take the Mark Cohen route.

[@andytattmedia]

Im a huge fan of this! I have a lack in confidence when it comes to approaching people so use the excuse that I shoot candid. But this method is love and I want to go out and try it, plus, just got a new camera too so it seems rude not too

[@barrydduggan]

Great video, I did try this. As soon as a got a few people who allowed me to take their photo it filled me with confidence. Although when I got rejected it felt kinda crappy too.

[@davidflorey]

I love this guy's intros - all different and very well done!

[@itsMido2]

I love this guy!!!! So creative and lovely

[@Pilantravis]

Really loved this vídeo. I think it's a very relatable feeling that you are addressing here.

[@АртемЕфимов-ы8з]

Mamma mia. I feel anxious just watching this video. would never be able to talk to anyone. Pablo is so cool!

[@cinebinge]

This was a great video, one question I do have is, how do you deal with the anxiety about how safe you are in a busy city? My main anxiety comes from worrying I’ll stand out as a target to thieves. Fantastic video though

[@silaszindel8113]

I took photos of strangers in Cuba and I could only speak this one sentence in spanish asking to take a photo. It was fascinating how people react to you. Some are really kind and polite others just say no and walk away. But it's ok, it really all comes down to practice.