Cairo was the first city where I experimented with street photography. Looking back, I see now that it was the city herself who inspired me to a new boldness for exploration. Walking Cairo’s bustling streets, I peeled away the layers of tourist Egypt and got at the heart of everyday life.
[Cairo, Egypt – December 2002]
I lost myself in the secrets of the city. Quite literally – my friends and I got well and truly lost. Rather than being upset by this though, we enjoyed every moment of finding our way back again. The clicks from my first SLR added to the rhythms of the street life and I gave myself over to the adventure of it all. As a result of this experience I became completely hooked on candid photography and have adopted a habit of getting lost in a city during my initial exploration.*
Exercises:
- Next time your town hosts a street fair or perhaps on your next big road trip, challenge yourself to shoot as many candid images of everyday life as possible. Learn to talk to strangers and make a point to ask one if you can take his/her portrait. Are you very shy? Try this out on family and friends first.
- Visiting a big city? Make some time to wander, truly wander, through a neighborhood.* Use your camera as an excuse to broaden your horizons and remember – you’re training for your next big trip!
In joy,
Melinda
*A few notes on street photography safety: I do my research into what neighborhoods are truly unsafe before I leave and that I attempt to stay within the limits of these safer neighborhoods. I also always have the phrases I will need to navigate the streets and enough cash on me to grab a cab or bus if the mood of the streets makes me feel unsafe. If I’m lucky enough to know some locals then I make a point of asking them what parts of the city are safe for solo exploring. You should also consider hiring a local guide to accompany you. In a pinch, and at the very least, be sure to ask your hotel’s concierge or the local tourist office for advice.