First Photos of actual Strangers

[cjm]

Here are two photos of actual strangers that I don't know just living their lives. Inspired ONLY because of this message board, never ever crossed my mind to really take pictures of actual people before but after so many interesting pictures I have seen here I thought I might as well try it despite being very shy.

First one is a lady selling Fat Frank Hot Dogs downton and the second is of a group of girls out shopping (and skipping school if not on holidays) yelling at the wee little one to hurry up. I used a Canon Powershot A60. So what do you think?

[symes]

To be honest They look like you are uncomfrotable taking them...The composition and focus seems a bit off and they look rushed.

I am by no means an expert but that is what I see...I felt the same way when I first started and still do a lot of the time...I have made it a habit of making myself known and letting myself stand out so that people can shew me away if they choose...

Cheers

[cjm]

Yeah symes they were really rushed and yup I am not comfortable taking pictures of stangers. I take more pictures of Landscapes and buildings more then things with two eyes. Thanks for your honesty. They are my first of actual people and not characters.

[symes]

Don't let it stop you from taking pictures though...To me there is little more rewarding than capturing a good photo of people...Buildings and lanscapes can be caught a thousand different times, albeit under different lights, but people are really great subjects...candids are really hard though and you have to be somewhat social...

Good luck...

Cheers...

[Vega$50]

Do this before you go out on your next candid shoot....Look over the candids you have seen here or elsewhere and study the composition. The key points of why you like the picture. Not just the facial expression but surroundings and background, and go try to recreate it.
These seem to be a bit far back from your subject and it is hard to tell what is supposed to be the main object in them. Keep trying...it aint easy...

[drisley]

CJM,
I am EXACTLY like you...not that comfortable taking pictures of strangers.
I am especially not comfortable anymore with taking pictures of kids (like #2) because of all the horror stories I've heard about.
But, this type of candid street photography can often produce the most rewarding work.
I found this article very interesting, and food for thought.
Telephoto Is For Cowards (http://194.100.88.243/petteri/pont/Pontification/n_Telephoto_Is_For_Wimps/a_Telephoto_Is_For_Cowards.html)