Street photography is unpredictable, fast, and often happens when you least expect it. Capturing those moments requires preparation and awareness, which is why understanding key principles can make a significant difference in your work.
Coming to you from Justin Mott, this engaging video lays out his personal street photography commandments. Mott emphasizes the importance of wearing your camera, not just carrying it in a bag. Street photography is spontaneous, and you need to be ready at any moment. Mott’s advice is to have your settings dialed in and keep the camera accessible so you’re not fumbling around when a perfect scene unfolds. He also advises ditching your lens cap, as it only slows you down and can cause you to miss shots. These tips focus on efficiency and maximizing your chances of capturing great images.
Another key point Mott makes is about backing up your work. Don’t wait until the next day—too many things can go wrong. The moment you get home, back up your memory cards to avoid the risk of losing your photos. Mott also stresses the importance of investing in good memory cards and hard drives. While it may seem like a small detail, high-quality storage saves you time, and time saves you money. His straightforward approach encourages you to prioritize reliability over cost when it comes to essential gear.
Mott goes on to discuss patience in street photography. He advises you not to quit on a shot, even if it seems like you’ve missed the moment. Instead, stay with the scene and wait for another opportunity. Often, life will present a better shot if you give it time. Another key point is not to set up shots or stage moments—letting life unfold naturally will give you more authentic and unique images. Mott warns against copying what others have done before, as it only results in repetitive, uninspired work.
One of Mott’s most practical tips is to shoot alone when you’re serious about getting your best shots. While it’s fun to go out in groups, distractions can keep you from fully immersing yourself in your surroundings. When you’re alone, you’re more present and focused on capturing the real essence of a scene. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Mott.
