'Street'. Threats, intimidation, theft and abuse

[KLaban]

It would interesting to hear of other folk's experiences regarding any threats, intimidation, abuse and theft they have experienced when shooting 'Street'.

Thankfully, despite shooting over many years, in many countries, cultures and environments, my negative experiences have been few and far between. I've occasionally experienced unhealthy interest in my cameras which I've managed to deflect. I've been followed by gangs in Jodhpur, India, but by calling them out and confronting them they disappeared into the crowds as fast as they had appeared.

I'm naturally attracted to those areas generally considered to be off limits, poorer ghettos, red-light districts and known drug dealer areas. Somewhat surprisingly perhaps, but the safest places I've ever been with camera in hand have been the cities in Morocco, a society where even the mere presence of a camera can cause apoplexy. The people have been friendly, welcoming and helpful.

I know, famous last words!

;-)

Would love to hear your own experiences but given the amount of active contributors here I'm not holding my breath.

[MattBurt]

My concerns are usually more things like a bear or a grumpy moose these days.

But when I used to travel more for work I did some urban photo adventures. I've only been told to move along by private security before and that I cannot photograph the public view of their building. I believe that is a false claim but I didn't want to make a scene so I complied.

[KLaban]

My concerns are usually more things like a bear or a grumpy moose these days.

But when I used to travel more for work I did some urban photo adventures. I've only been told to move along by private security before and that I cannot photograph the public view of their building. I believe that is a false claim but I didn't want to make a scene so I complied.

Matt, I'd stand my ground with security guards, but I'd hand over my camera instantly if a bear or a grumpy moose showed an unhealthy interest in me!

[Chris Kern]

It would interesting to hear of other folk's experiences regarding any threats, intimidation, abuse and theft they have experienced when shooting 'Street'.

Whenever someone objects to being photographed—either explicitly or implicitly but unambiguously—I always back off.

The more common problem I've encountered when shooting "street" is subjects who immediately strike a pose as soon as they see a camera lens pointed in their direction.

[KLaban]

The more common problem I've encountered when shooting "street" is subjects who immediately strike a pose as soon as they see a camera lens pointed in their direction.

Yes, often a problem, but just occasionally it works to my advantage.

"You lookin at me"

[Chris Kern]

Yes, often a problem, but just occasionally it works to my advantage.

Serendipity is one of the benefits of shooting "street."

[langier]

Sometimes I've been hit up by a "street urchin," and in that case, a small donation has led to a smile and a "thank you, mister!" Another time it was just making a small contribution for a beer with a rural gent.

Overall, staying below the radar, a friendly smile, and now photographing with an iPhone, and most everyone ignores me.

From Poland:

[KLaban]

Despite the risk of leading to posing I'll typically grease the palm, sometimes works wonders but is always gratefully received.

Having a gregarious wife with me often helps, she can occupy the subject's gaze with her mobile while I shoot from another angle.

[KLaban]

Then there are those who pose to survive.

This elderly woman is often seen on the streets of Essaouira with her cats. Absolutely delightful lady but sadly now in extremely poor health. I give her a few notes every time I see her.



And talk about serendipity, for those who see the image has three heads in shot. ;-)

[degrub]

Clever !
How about 4 ?

[KLaban]

Clever !
How about 4 ?

Ta muchly.

Yes, it could be argued that a cane head makes it 4.

:-)

[KLaban]

And then there are others who get their own back by photographing the photographer. ;-)