Street photography often seems to be governed by unspoken rules. However, these rules may be stifling your creativity. Let’s explore five common myths about street photography that you should abandon to truly free your artistic vision.
Tim North, a prominent street photographer from Sydney, explains five street photography myths you need to let go of in this video and takes us through why these outdated pieces of advice might be limiting your work. He frames these myths as mindsets that restrict photographers from creating freely and authentically.
Although the video covers various topics, the one that stood out most to me is the idea that you need to be invisible to shoot street photography effectively. This is a common question I get from students and novice street photographers as well. Tim argues that striving for complete invisibility is often impossible and can cause missed opportunities and a lack of connection with subjects. He explains that by accepting your presence as a photographer, you can produce more authentic and compelling images. Being approachable and engaging with people can break barriers and lead to unique, personal shots, rather than relying solely on candid, distant moments. The key is to be respectful and non-intrusive, understanding that your presence is part of the scene, not an obstacle to avoid. This mindset shift allows photographers to interact confidently with their environment and subjects, moving beyond the fear of being noticed or feeling like a trespasser. The best street photographers are known for their direct approach and engagement.
The video also addresses other key points, such as the myth that you must constantly shoot and that every shot must be perfectly sharp or flawless. These ideas support a broader theme of embracing freedom and imperfection in your street photography.
Watch the rest of the video to learn about more myths and gain a full understanding of how to transform your approach.