Be Prepared

by | Sep 7, 2010 | Perspective | 1 comment

When you do extraordinary things to get an extraordinary picture, I have found that it is important to be prepared with a good response to give anyone who might be questioning what you’re up to.

The Bean Field_4993 In Indiana a few weeks ago, I was enjoying the warmth of the sunlight pouring over a nice big bean field with a picturesque little barn in the background. I was minding my own business when a small white car drove past real slow like. Then it turned around and stopped. I walked up, said hi and gave the lady a business card in return for a barrage of detailed questions. Having seen a car with an out-of-state license plate parked off to the side in a nearby driveway must have initially aroused her suspicion.

But these kind of conversations are very important. It helps the freelance photographer be discreet and stay in a position where everyone feels safe and comfortable. A good photographer will consider the following:

  • Do not trespass, by sticking close to roads and public places.
  • If people are around, greet them, and ask them if you may go in certain places or take pictures of certain things.
  • Do not take pictures of peoples houses.
  • Don’t block mailboxes, sidewalks, driveways or signs with where you park your car.
  • Keep a sign in your car window with a name and phone-number or even a word about why you’re there; stick close to your car.
  • Watch that you are not the victim; do not give away unnecessary information.
  • And don’t do anything you wouldn’t do if you knew someone was watching!

The Barn by the Bean Field_4940 From police officers to pedestrians, I’ve been asked what I’ve been up to many times. This is good, because it means folks are doing their job of keeping a safe and controlled community. It’s the photographers responsibility to do what’s expected of him to do the same.

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1 Comment

  1. Robert

    Wise advice, brother!

    Reply

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