Passport
The Last Word On Travel Portraits
I hadn't planned on writing about travel portraiture; after all, we've discussed it directly or peripherally a few times before. I was leaning toward some how-to, application-type things--photography at resorts and on cruise ships, or maybe how to tackle a city you've never visited before. Then I started going through the great travel photographer Bob Krist's book, Spirit of Place. Bob is coming down here to Texas soon to speak before a local pro group. He's a good friend and will be staying with me and my family during his visit, and I was just catching up on some of his ideas. When I got to his thoughts on people photography, I couldn't help but smile. Bob and I both realize that despite all the advice we might give to others, a lot of people still find it hard to take photographs of the people they see on their travels. And not only amateur photographers--we both know of photojournalists and editorial shooters who are somewhat mystified by travel portraiture. |
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Contact Sport
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Starting Out I think that most people are flattered when you approach them, but it all has to do with the approach. I tend to work calmly and professionally and almost always carry the pro equipment that indicates who I am. But the equipment isn't the major factor. I may be carrying a Mamiya RZ or a few Nikon bodies, but I could also be holding a point-and-shoot camera--it's how I act and how I make the approach. I think the number one reason people bring back good people pictures is that they have genuine humility and sensitivity. People will sense those things about you and they will help you. If you're arrogant or cocky, in a rush, impolite or selfish, people are going to feel that, too. As for me, I consider the picture I'm taking of a person to be part of my travel experience, of my learning about where I am and who I'm with. People can tell I'm really interested in them because it's the truth. I am. |
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Posing Tips We've said this before, too, but it's really important: be on top of your game. Know your equipment and have your technique together. You don't want to be fumbling with the camera settings or frantically switching lenses. Work smoothly and professionally and people have confidence in you and they're glad to help. Besides, I found that for the most part, the best people pictures I get are captured in the first few frames. That's a great position to be in: you know you've got some winners and now you can really relax and enjoy the situation. |
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If you've got a problem with people photography, don't run away from it, deliberately assign yourself a few tasks and missions. The more you do it, the easier it gets. Finally, realize that the nature of the world is making it easier for you. Wherever you go, people are used to seeing people with cameras. They know who you are and what you're doing, and if you're polite and sincere, most are going to be willing to help you. And that's the last word on travel portraits. |
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