Wk 5 – Street Photography

Week 5: Street Photography
Posted on: Wednesday, 7 October 2015 15:00:00 o’clock EST

Hi all,

Below is a summary of this week’s class.

You can view the presentation here: https://www.zeetings.com/lachlanpayne/7909-0001

FAMOUS PHOTOGRAPHER: Vivian Maier

Nationality: American

Born: February 1, 1926

Died: April 21, 2009 (aged 83)

Profile: A nanny whose previously unknown cache of 100,000 photographs earned her a posthumous reputation as one of the 20th century’s most accomplished street photographers.

Known for: Images of the people and architecture of New York City, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

EXPOSURE

The exposure triangle.

A photograph’s exposure, as captured by your camera, determines how light or dark an image will appear.

The three fundamental elements of exposure are aperture, shutter speed and ISO, which together make up what we call the exposure triangle.

These three elements form the foundation of successful photography.

A brief summary of the three fundamentals of exposure.

Aperture controls depth of field (the area in focus).
Shutter speed captures movement and motion.
ISO refers to the light sensitivity of the sensor.
STREET PHOTOGRAPHY

What is street photography?

Street photography is a type of photography that features the human condition within public places.

Some common elements in street photography are:

Urban environment
Human subject
Candid/un-manipulated moment
The law and street photography

It is generally possible to take photographs in a public place without asking permission. This extends to taking photographs of buildings, sites and people. There are, however, some limitations.

If you are using your shots for a commercial purpose, such as for an advertising campaign, you should obtain a model release form signed by the subjects you are photographing to ensure you have authorisation to use their image to sell a product.

There is no restriction on taking photographs of people on private property from public property.

There are provisions in the Copyright Act 1968 (Cth) that allow people to take and publish photographs of buildings, models of buildings, sculptures and other works of artistic craftsmanship without infringing copyright. However, photography is restricted in some areas by local councils or authorities.

It is illegal to enter certain property belonging to the government such as railway yards, electrical power stations and military bases. Trespassing in these areas may lead to arrest and prosecution. It is also illegal to photograph any defence installation in Australia under the Defence Act 1903 (Cth). Your photos, camera and film can be confiscated and destroyed, and you can face potential fines or imprisonment. You can even be arrested without a warrant. Always obey any warning signs displayed at such locations as you can be penalised even if you haven’t taken any photos, but have photography equipment in your possession.

Dealing with the police

Some photographers have been approached by the police while on the street taking photographs. The police may ask you to identify yourself. In New South Wales, as a general rule, you do not have to comply, but there are some exceptions.

The ethics of street photography

We have established that street photography is legal, but is is ethical?

Here are some tips on how to ensure you operate within ethical boundaries while engaging in street photography.

If you’re not sure — ask
Be respectful
Be compliant
Don’t be exploitative
Use common sense
Tips on taking street photographs

The best camera to use is one you’re familiar with
Wide angle lenses lend themselves more to candid images
Remember to move your feet to get the best image
Always be ready for the shot
Don’t be scared
Remember to smile
Ask for permission
Be respectful
Tell a story
PRACTICAL ACTIVITY

Let’s start with the basics:

Set the image quality on your camera to RAW
Change your picture setting to Monochrome/Black and White
On your mode dial, select either Aperture priority (A/Av) or Shutter priority (S/Tv), depending on your preference
Walk up to Central Park and practice street photography
Return to class and share your results!
HOMEWORK

Post your summary of today’s lesson, along with your images, results and thoughts to your blog
Finish working on your first assessment and come to class next week prepared to present
RESOURCES

VIVIAN MAIER

Finding Vivian Maier – Official Movie Trailer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2o2nBhQ67Zc

FINDING VIVIAN MAIER http://www.findingvivianmaier.com/

Vivian Maier Photographer http://www.vivianmaier.com/

Finding Vivian Maier (ABC iView) http://iview.abc.net.au/programs/finding-vivian-maier/ZW0352A001S00

EXPOSURE

Pick the Best Aperture, Shutter Speed and ISO Settings https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rLFpQbRWgJE

STREET PHOTOGRAPHY

What is Street Photography? http://www.in-public.com/information/what_is

10 Tips for the Aspiring Street Photographer http://digital-photography-school.com/10-tips-for-the-aspiring-street-photographer/

Street photographer’s rights http://www.artslaw.com.au/info-sheets/info-sheet/street-photographers-rights/

Australian Street Photography Legal Issues http://4020.net/words/photorights.php