How do you take pictures of strangers with out getting a beat-down?

[Snarcher]

Everytime I go to take a picture where there are people around, like a fair or whatever, I always get beat up. Do you guys have a false arm with a camera in it or something?

[asylumxl]

aren't you being a little mellowdramatic :rolleyes?

the secret is a medium/long telephoto lens, a wide aperture, and not caring if they see you taking their photo.

[DavidTO]

A while ago, Andy linked to this article (http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/read.asp?forum=1029&message=13095446), when he was posting in this thread (http://www.dgrin.com/showthread.php?t=7201).

[littlebreeze]

"Relax. Chill out. Enjoy the sunshine, the sounds and smells of the river. Don't observe anyone in particular. Admire everything. If someone notices you, give them a big friendly grin with all those teeth of yours.
And once you spot your prey, become even more casual. Polish off that piece of dust from your camera. Look past them as if you're deep in thought. Take a few pictures of a boring statue. Then just continue shooting, grabbing the real frame as one among many..."



From the article, very good advice, sometimes I ask before I shoot sometimes I shoot and them compliment them and charm my way into more shooting.



A smile can work wonders so can asking permission.:D

[JESTER]

:agree When you approach someone you usually get one of two things. WHY do you want to take my photo and DONT take my photo. If they don't want you to take the photo, then move on to the next subject. If they want to know why, then tell them. "I am practicing for a photo class" usually works pretty good. Your personality has a lot to do with it. Always smile and be friendly. Don't try to sneak a photo and look like a spy. I've never had any trouble as long as you ask first.

Of course if you go to a fair and people are drinking, etc you might have a little problem. I guess it all depends on the kind of people you ask.:D

If Yuri sees this post he might give you some pointers. That guy seems to have a knack for this kind of stuff. I never seem to have a problem. In fact people sometimes ask me to take their pictures and give me an email address to send them copies.

[ob81]

Half of the battle is not having a weird looking appearance. Dress normal, don't stare, and smile. The smile is where its at.