splatbass Loc: Honolulu

I discovered by accident a couple of years ago a technique for candid shots without arousing the notice of the subject. Maybe some of you others do the same thing, I'd like to hear if you do. It has worked well for me.

I typically keep a camera on a wrist strap for instant access, but because I was going to walk a ways I put it on a strap hanging around my neck. As I walked the camera bounced against my chest, so I put my right hand on it to hold it. I noticed with my hand in that position the shutter button was right under my thumb. I could preset the focus manually and exposure, walk around looking like any tourist (which I was) and when I saw something interesting just push the shutter with my thumb and walk on. I don't even have to look right at the subject as long as the camera is pointed that direction (wide angle lens). It helps that I am tall and the camera hanging on my chest puts it at face level for most people.

Just thought some people might be interested. I've gotten some good shots this way. No one has even noticed as far as I can tell.

Kmgw9v Loc: Miami, Florida

Does one walk with or without the lens cap attached?

splatbass Loc: Honolulu

Without. That way I'm ready to just push my thumb down at any time.

Nightski

I like it ... tips for a little woman? I'm going to try that though .. who knows .. I may come up with something that works for me.

le boecere

Apparently you've got the primary ingredients for success with this method. You are taller than average, apparently you know about where your camera is pointing, and you're using a wide lens.
I, too, have used your method, but I'm not quite tall enough.

When you say "wide lens"; how wide (in 35mm ff equivalent)?

Allen McDonald Loc: Atlanta, GA

I've used this method and others. Another is to pretend you are shooting above your subject's head (at a building for example) and then bring the camera down and away from your eye as if you're checking the shot (or settings, etc) but in reality that's when you are actually taking the shot of your subject. Also, sometimes if you use a wide angle (24mm or more) subjects aren't even aware they are in the frame since you are not pointing the lens directly at them even though they are actually in the ideal position at the right or left third of the frame.

le boecere

As a rookie, I find that the experiences and methods of nearly everyone who photographs on "the street" to be helpful and useful, Allen. Thank you for taking the time to share some of yours.

Your "(24mm or more)" ~ is that 24mm full frame equivalent?