Street photography, things i need to know.

[thefonz78]

I live in Barry island a seaside resort. I would like to start a study of the area landscapes and people. To be honest i'm a bit scared to ask people can i take there picture but have decided to man up and give it a go. Any hints a tips regarding asking people, getting permission (do i really need model release forms?)

[GeoffWessex]

Once you talk about Model Release Forms to a potential subject of a candid shot it ceases to be candid.
If it's candid shots, just take them or, if unavoidable, ask first.

A DSLR isn't a good camera for this purpose - a compact is... specially one with a fold-out LCD.

[thefonz78]

Yes i'm less worried about candids. But if i meet some interesting characters i would like to take there portraits. I was thinking about getting business cards done when someone has agreed to the picture being taken give them a card and ask them to email you and you can send them the photo. Would this be good enough for most people?

I like the idea of restricting myself to a location on a project, and see what i can get out of it. I once saw a brilliant project from a photographer who only shot on one street corner in New York for a number of years. It was inspiring.

[thefonz78]

I'm no way comparing New York to Barry Island but you do see some characters down there!

[PeterChinnock]

Hi Robert,

Have a look and read here: http://www.flickr.com/groups/100strangers/

I've just started the project, only done 4 and its so rewarding.

Don't worry about asking people, you'll probably find that everybody is more than happy to have their photo taken, i was very surprised, and getting over this initial hurdle makes it easier in the future.
Looking forward to seeing the results.

Pete