This slightly edited post was first published on the Substack newsletter, Photos, mostly on January 25th, 2023.
Photographing in the street for long enough, despite all efforts to the contrary, we will unintentionally upset someone. Whether a beginner of only a few months, or a street photographer with decades of experience, we should expect to meet some conflict and confrontation as we work. Whether this comes from misunderstanding, misanthropy, or mistake, it is important to have good bedside manner to defuse those unfortunate and unpleasant situations. Certainly, much has changed over the last decade and conversations of consent and purpose have rightly arisen. As street photographers we have to strike a balance while not undermining the work we want to do.
In its more classic definition, street photography is making candid images of life as it is lived, or the remnants of that life. The active introduction of the photographer irrevocably changes the scene. As such, to ensure the image appears as I see it, and not an amateur theatre replica, I abide by the tenet, It’s better to ask forgiveness than seek permission. Many inexperienced photographers fixate on the end of this principle while ignoring its opening. Not seeking permission is not, in turn, a tacit licence to be ill-mannered, defensive or aggressive in confrontation, especially not if the person confronting you is being equally or more so. The goal of a confrontation on the street is, of course, de-escalation.
Well, actually…
Laws on street photography are different across the world but in most places it is legal to make an image of someone in public where there is no reasonable expectation of privacy. Armed with that knowledge, though, many street photographers – including my younger self – fall back on the argument of rights. I have the right to take this photograph. Speaking from experience, this is not wise. There are few things that will escalate conflict more than well, actually… With more experience comes consideration not only to the question of whether I can take the photograph, but whether I should. Each street photographer must draw their own ethical lines.
While it is natural to feel defensive in the face of confrontation, it is important to remain empathetic. Someone very well may be taking their bad day out on you, however, the possibility remains their aversion to being photographed is something deeper.
Clutching pearls
With experience it becomes more easy to recognise signs of who may have a sincere basis for objection, versus someone frantically clutching pearls. I’ve found that immediate threat of the police, or claims that laws have been broken, without discussion, more often than not reveal the person just wants to speak to the manager. I’ve learned the quickest and easiest resolution to offer these people is to smile apologetically, and walk away.
The former group, in contrast, will often stop and invite discussion, and I am happy to accept. The first question is often why did I take the photograph, and I’m happy to explain. If intentions are sincere and we are honest in our explanation, I have found people will move from concerned to baffled. With a little Street Photography 101, it’s then an easy trip from bafflement to interest. Most such confrontations have ended in pleasant agreement – whether I agree to send them the image, or we agree I not publish the photograph.
Don’t Be A Dick
Every so often, a quick escape is impossible, or our apology ignored. It is our responsibility to remain calm, be friendly, and not mirror any aggression. Again, empathy is our watchword. We can’t know why someone has become upset. It may be difficult to keep composure in the face of insult and accusation of all manner of intentions, but remain composed we must. In these more verbally violent situations, I will offer a succinct apology, give a short explanation why I was interested by the scene, and as a last resort, I will agree not to publish the photo. If this fails to placate the aggressor, I will be direct, assertive, and indicate my exit.
Street photography is not for everyone. Don’t be shamed by those who don’t understand it. While it can be exhilarating and rewarding, it is not without its dangers. Confrontations do happen. (I have been assaulted, not once but twice, while working. Once, punched in the side of the head for nothing but taking the above photograph). Nevertheless, as a street photographer I am privileged to be out in the world making photographs of life in the 2020s. It’s a good life, and as such, it is important to me that my photography does not negatively impact on someone else’s life. Though sometimes unavoidable, no-one should leave an interaction with me having a worse day than they were before. So, a second tenet then for any street photographers, or anyone really, to live by. Put simply… don’t be a dick.
And finally…
If you’ve enjoyed this issue, I’d be very grateful if you could recommend it to any photography-loving friends.
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