Dress Appropriately – You’ve probably heard it a million times before but it does make a big difference. In countries outside the ‘West’ you will rarely see any local men wearing shorts or women wearing revealing skirts or tops. Pay attention to what the locals are wearing and do your best to adapt a similar dress.
Don’t just shoot and run – Locals don’t just want their photograph, they want to talk to you. Spend time getting to know them. For every single portrait I have taken (if you check out my website you will see there are a lot!) I have spent at least a few minutes conversing with them.
Plan your Image – While I am talking to my new friend I am always getting the shot ready in my head. Checking exposure (shooting Digital really is cheating!) and finding a suitable composition.
Smile – A smile is the best thing for a person to feel at ease and relax. When you smile, they smile. We all love smiling!
Shoot - Now that you know where your friend went to school, how many children he as, and if he goes to Church every Sunday you are ready to ask to take their photo. Be quick though, the longer you point a camera at someone the less comfortable they feel. This is whether it’s your Father taking the photo or a complete stranger!
Accidentally found your blog recently. A-mazing. What a life! I enjoy your style of writing as well.
Hi Cary, nice to know you found my blog! and thanks for your kind words. Yes, I can’t say I live a boring life! I’m so used to it now it feels very strange when I’m back ‘home’ living a ‘normal’ life!