RSSQuestion by Jesi Yvonne: How do I ask people on the street to let me take a photo of their fashion look?
Hello. I am wanting to start an archive of street styles in my downtown/student area. I am wondering how I should go about asking others for photos of their looks? I want to be courteous and yet put myself forward so that the subject will actually say ‘yes’. I am a younger girl studying Fashion Design and Textile Design. Thank you for your answers!
Best answer:
Answer by Jeff H.
I like your clothes, can I take a picture?
Give your answer to this question below!
What makes you think you have to ask permission? You don’t.
Only ask if it will help you get the shots you need, if you want candid shots there is no need to ask.
most people will be flattered and only too happy.
be complementary “ooh, i love your look! i am a fashion student and looking to take some pics of trendy people on the street. would you please pose for me?”
if they say no, at least you tried. just say ” ok no worries, i understand”
good luck
Dress really cute and have your camera ready to take some shots. If you want someone to actually pose for you, then you will obviously need to ask to take their picture. If you live in a big city, photographers working with the public like that is a pretty common thing (I swear, it really is!). However, it might take more explaining if you live in a smaller town. Also, you would probably get more positive responses by younger people like yourself or those who are obviously fashion forward – they know they look good and don’t mind showing it. Ask politely, be complimentary, and don’t take it personally when people ignore you and walk right on by!
Be polite.
“Excuse me, I’m studying Fashion and Textile Design, and I’m fascinated by your look today. May I please take your picture for my studies?”
Most people will be surprised, yet flattered.
ALWAYS thank them when they say yes.
Carry a notebook, and ask if they would like to give you a name (even if just their first name) and write it down, along with the date and any other pertinent information (like if they made the clothing themselves, or if it’s all from Gram’s closet, or they raided their little brother’s drawer). You can also ask them if how they would define their personal style. Such notes may come in handy.
Just lie and say, “Hey, I am walking the streets to get pictures for a fashion magazine, May I please take your picutre?
Business card will help along with a few prints of the photographs you’ve already made. Be prepared for the questions of what you are going to do with the images. On the other note, I am a street photographer and I always photograph people in candid situations without them knowing it. That is what I need from my images.
800mm lens