I spotted this girl getting ready to hit the street with her Vespa and took a first shot unnoticed. Yet the only way to have a composition with depth (the street behind) was to position myself in front of her. I took the risk and unluckily got spotted before I could take that second shot. I therefore asked if she did not mind that I take her picture, to which she agreed. I could have asked her to act and look somewhere else, but by doing so, I would have created a fake street scene. I would not have felt confortable doing so, I always feel there is something unethical about it.
In the end, I like the aesthetics of the picture, yet to me it is a portrait more than a street photography shot. (click on picture to enlarge)
Leica M9 with 35mm Summilux Asph at F1.4, 1/180, ISO800
I love this blog, thank you very much. « On permission » I was wondering: Do you just ask them for permission to take a picture or also to put it on the internet? And do you get different responses for these two questions?
That sweet girl was ready for the photo. Her smile is so real. I also like the background, that urban scenary gives a great environment.
Regards
Valery
[Barcelona Daily Photo]
I know what you mean but maybe trying to analyze street photography too much leads nowhere. This charming girl notices you and that situation in itself creates a street scene. Who said the photographer should never be noticed? As usual – brilliant photography
I agree with Fotolebrocq. Street photography is also when it happens the photographer finds suddenly interacting with the subject/person. It is different from a fake scene.
At times those situations end in a funny photo that can also be brilliant, or a serious and well composed one where the subject gives the power and stability necessary.
Maybe a nearby camera is the thing to get a Parisienne to offer a cute smile. But I would expect nothing but cuteness from a girl who rides a pink scooter.
@ Marcel, about the internet I hardly ever ask, but when I do some close portraits, then yes I sometimes do and usually get the email to.
@ Fotolebrocq and Daniel. You are right, there is probably no rule about it. Yet, I just love it when I can take a picture without altering the scene myself. Not an obsession though, I’ll take a nice smile too ;)
Lovely as usual. I wonder though, was it really shot at 1/180 and ISO200? seems to me that it was pretty dark for shooting 1/180 and ISO 200? also you shot it 1/180 manually?
I’m just trying to learn a bit :)
Good catch Dan, it was indeed ISO800. Corrected, thanks!
I only use manual 1/180 is the number you get on the M9 when the dial is set between 1/125 and 1/250 on manual. I guess it is rounded from 1/187.5 which would be better math.
Muito bem.
Bonita foto
Charmante rencontre!
She is the most beautiful girl I have ever seen…