Photographing homeless people

9 years 6 months ago #402988 by Tim Dordeck
We have our share of homeless people around here.  I've seen some who I believe would be amazing stories if captured in photos. My concern is of course not to come across in the wrong way by taking these. 

So from a morally or ethical stand point, if I'm providing lunch and snacks in exchange for taking the homeless persons photos with their permission.  Do you see anything wrong with that?  I'm talking about photos that are going to show their living conditions and life in general. 


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9 years 6 months ago #403042 by Joves
Well back in my film days when I lived in LA I just shot them as a part of street shots. I never asked permission, and did it so they did not know they were being shot. I hate posed street shots. I mean if you feel the need to feed them then do so, but only after you get them candidly. Some may yell that they want cash, but I never give anyone cash because I know it is not for food. Maybe carry some canned chili, chips, and the potted meat type of stuff.That is what I used to see most of them gorging on back then, and I imagine it has not changed much.


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9 years 6 months ago #403050 by effron
I agree with Joves. I used to shoot street candids in my young and reckless days, also in LA and I NEVER gave the "poor" cash. I bought a few a meal but wouldn't give ever them dope or booze money. I wouldn't bother to engage these people either, you just might be asking for trouble. Use a telephoto and wear shoes you can run in. Also, take very little gear.....;)

Why so serious?
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9 years 6 months ago #403080 by Roblane
:agree:  use your head and stay far from trouble


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9 years 6 months ago #403359 by Miss Polly
I believe if you are careful, tasteful and not exploit their misfortune with ill motives, then go for it. 


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9 years 6 months ago #403455 by Rawley Photos
:agree:  


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9 years 6 months ago #403642 by Wyrick Photography
Not an area that I have a lot of experience, but I'm going to agree :agree:  

Canon 5d Mark II • Canon 24-105mm F/4.0 • Canon 135mm F/2.0 • Canon 50mm F/1.8 • Tamron 28-75mm F/2.8 • Canon 580ex ii
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9 years 5 months ago #404516 by Duncan K
There is a line in the sand here.  And it's a common sense one.  If you go out there with the intent to exploit the persons misfortune, then yes it's not right.  If you are going out there with good intentions and photograph for the sake of capturing good photography, then that's okay in my eyes.  


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9 years 5 months ago #404622 by Joves

Duncan K wrote: There is a line in the sand here.  And it's a common sense one.  If you go out there with the intent to exploit the persons misfortune, then yes it's not right.  If you are going out there with good intentions and photograph for the sake of capturing good photography, then that's okay in my eyes.  

:agree:
Yep that is how I look at it. Also it is why I used a longer lens as well so they were candid shots. There used to be some real characters in the LA area, that would rant out on the street. Then there were a few faux homeless types panhandling, and they always got mad when they saw me. There is one of those down on Venice Beach playing his guitar on rollerskates that would get near violent if you did not give him a ten spot. He is still down there BTW, or was a couple of years ago when I was visiting.


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9 years 5 months ago #405057 by Finn
+1 with Duncan.  Famous last words!


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