Category - Media
Topic - Portrait Photography
Issue - Getting permission
Tiptoid -
Yesterday, I was playing around with a new Polaroid camera HaJung had received as a gift for her birthday. I like to take pictures of people, so I asked her if I could try out her new camera.
Once I got on to the camera's features, and I figured out how to use it, my plan was to take pictures of my friends so I could put the pictures in an online album for all of us to enjoy. Right away I asked HaJung if I could take a picture of her, but she refused! Then she laughed and agreed.
HaJung's refusal got me thinking. How do photographers get permission from people to take their pictures? My curiosity led me to an online digital photography site. Here is what I learned.
• Calmly approach the person or subject you are trying to photograph.
• Compliment them on how great they look.
• Ask politely, with a smile, if you can take their picture.
• If they refuse, try being positive about the experience. Be sincere.
• If they still refuse, then say “Thank you,” and walk away.
• If they agree, start taking pictures.
• Encourage them to do a few specific poses, while still acting naturally.
• Encourage them to make some faces, showing a variety of emotions.
• Tell them that they look great, so that it boosts their confidence.
• Thank your subject. Smile.
Courtesy is always appropriate, whether or not you get your picture. Now, may I please take your picture?!!
Glossary -
Polaroid – a camera that develops and produces a positive print within seconds
Find Out More -
http://digital-photography-school.com/blog/asking-permission-to-photography-people/
http://www.thefreedictionary.com/polaroid+camera
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Submitted by - Phuong Nguyen
Site Managers - Chris Ricci and Yelser Deleon
April 2007