New York Minute 152 - Higher Standards

I am a photographer in a big city, and sometimes I photograph people without getting their permission in advance. If they are speeding down the street on a skateboard, I can’t strike up a conversation with them. But I do try to conduct myself in a way that won’t make my subject or the people around me uncomfortable. I never try to hide or sneak up on people. I’m open about what I’m doing. I am approachable if people have questions, and when it’s practical to do so, I will chat with them beforehand and ask their permission before taking their photo. More people are agreeable when you approach them respectfully.

To put this in context, there is an entire of genre of photography that prides itself on sneaking around and snapping pictures of people surreptitiously. Practitioners of this genre believe that the photographs aren’t genuine if the subject is aware of what’s happening before the exposure is captured. 

I have an issue with this. It makes me uncomfortable when I catch someone taking my picture without asking permission, and as a photographer, I notice this happening more often than the layperson would. People who conduct themselves in this way are anti-social chickenshits who try to justify their cowardice with delusions of photojournalistic authenticity, but I digress. 

Rather than lowering myself to the level of cowardly snipers, I hold myself to a higher standard. I do what I can to avoid making my subjects uncomfortable, and I avoid taking photos that are not flattering. I ask myself, “If the subject were to see this picture on my website, would they be pleased with it?”

Which brings is to today’s New York Minute...

While walking with my camera at lunchtime, I spotted a handsome young gentleman standing on a shaded patch of sidewalk, painting a colorful picture on an easel. My camera was out and ready. I could have squeezed off a shot before the guy knew what what happening, and he may never have been the wiser. But that would go against my standards. Since the fellow wasn’t speeding away - has fast can you run with an open easel and a wet canvas? - I had a chance to approach him and ask his permission before shooting. 

The guy was fine with it. “Sure! I don’t mind!” he said warmly. 

I turned to walk back a couple of steps to frame the shot, and there was some asshole standing there taking a picture with his phone of me talking to the painter. Good job, chickenshit! Thanks for making my point!

I took my shots and thanked the painter for his time. As I was about to continue on my way, it occurred to ask him for his card. He offered it to me cheerfully. I haven’t had a chance to check out his website, yet, but if the work is as good as what he was painting today, I’ll gladly share the URL and help to promote his business. 

I gave him my card, as well. I got my photos, I made a contact, and I didn’t leave anyone feeling uncomfortable. Win-win! It pays to maintain high standards.

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