Page 62 - Australian Photography - September 2017

PHOTO TIPS: TA K E YOUR STR E E T PHOTOGR A PH Y ABROAD

a certain anonymous, intrepid confidence while travel- Some of my favourite street photography moments
ling that can lead you to compromise your principles abroad, have been in first light. Taking an old wooden
and make poor judgements. boat to a working fishing village in Central Vietnam.
When you’re travelling with other photographers it’s Walking barefoot with the pilgrims along The Holy City
easy to all be focused on the same thing, the obvious of Pushkar Lake in Northern India. Being first in line and
thing. Think 360 degrees. I’m always looking sideways having the Taj Mahal all to myself at sunrise.
and behind me for images that are going to be different Travel often takes you to iconic places that have been
from the other people I’m travelling with. One of my photographed many of times before and often in the same
favourite images is of a lone Vietnamese woman walk- way. Like the Taj Mahal for example. The challenge is al-
ing through a busy market place to her wedding. Had I ways to find a fresh perspective and create images that are
looked ahead with my group and not looked sideways, I your own. Tourists and their antics always provide fresh in-
Nón lá series, would have missed the moment. spiration for street photography. You can even find beauty
Hoi An, Vietnam. Away from the facade of the tourist areas is where you will in what many people would consider ugly, like scaffold-
Don’t go on a come across truly authentic everyday moments. Children ing. The weather or the time of day can also play a part in
photography
trip expecting to playing, schools, people doing everyday chores, clothes making your image unique: late afternoon shadows, dif-
take your best hanging out to dry, pets, local shops and town squares. fused morning light, puddles and reflections.
photographs You’ll feel more self conscious than you would photograph- The success of your trip and your photography de-
or you may feel ing in a tourist area but if you can manage your fears, you’ll pends largely on your attitude. If you’re genuine and
pressured and be rewarded with some wonderful photographs. honest, your subjects will be more likely to trust and en-
frustrated. See
it as a holistic gage with you. If you’re curious and open minded you
experience, a WAKE UP EARLY will be rewarded with a richer experience and be able
chance to reflect People often ask how I can make some of the busiest cities to see beyond the clichés and facades. If you’re respect-
on your life, and in the world look empty. Mostly it’s just a matter of timing ful and patient more opportunities will come your way.
re-kindle your but sometimes it’s because a photograph has been taken If you’re easygoing and interested, the relationship with
creativity. Pentax
K5, Sigma lens 17- early in the morning. Wake up early and you will be re- your fellow travellers will be more satisfying.
70mm. 1/1600s @ warded not just with the soft morning light but also with Savour each photography trip for as long as you can, and
f8, ISO 100. lone, interesting characters and uncluttered streetscapes. then start planning your next! ❂

| 62 | SEPTEMBER 2017 | AUSTRALIANPHOTOGRAPHY.COM