We've all been there. You've just taken possibly your best picture of the day and the subject says 'No!' - or 'you can't take my photo'. Fortunately, it happens very rarely but when it does, how should you react?
Well, let's start with the legal standpoint. In almost all circumstances, provided your are on public land and not cause nuisance, alarm, harassment or distress, you are perfectly within your rights to photograph who you wish, whether they like it or not. If they don't like it, what do you do? There are a number of possibilities . . .
You agree with them and either don't take their picture or delete the image you have just taken. For me, as a photojournalist, the latter goes against the grain and is a last resort. You will need to make a judgement as to how much you want that picture (or to what extent you will not back down as a matter of principle). If the person is twice your size, extremely angry, aggressive or threatening, you may think it's worth backing off. Move on and find someone else. If you feel you are in control of the situation, however, I would suggest you persevere.
Assuming you intend to 'win', it may be just that the subject needs reassurance as to your motives. Often by saying that you're a street photographer, or are working on a student / camera club photography project or something similar, the heat of the situation may well dissipate.
Another tactic is simply to smile. A big smile almost always diffuses tension and leads to a conversation rather than a confrontation.
The best tactic, however, is refine your shooting technique to the point where you're not spotted in the first place! There is plenty you can do to blend in and become 'invisible' on the streets. Read my previous blog article (http://streetsnappers.com/street-photography/street-photography-techniqu...) about this for some in-depth tips.
What experiences have you had? How did you react? What happened? Please share your experiences with the group . . .