Photographing homeless people

9 years 7 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. 


Photo Comments
,
9 years 7 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.


,
9 years 7 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?
Photo Comments
,
9 years 7 months ago #403080 by Roblane
:agree:  use your head and stay far from trouble


Photo Comments
,
9 years 7 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. 


Photo Comments
,
9 years 7 months ago #403455 by Rawley Photos
:agree:  


Photo Comments
,
9 years 7 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
Photo Comments
,
9 years 6 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.  


,
9 years 6 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.


,
9 years 6 months ago #405057 by Finn
+1 with Duncan.  Famous last words!


Photo Comments
,

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Latest Reviews

The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!

Apr 22, 2024

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024

The Canon EOS R50 is one of the newest R-system cameras from Canon. Is it worth your money? Find out all the details you need to know in this comprehensive review.

Apr 10, 2024

The Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II is Sony’s flagship mirrorless zoom lens. As such, it’s loaded with features and has a top-shelf build quality that makes it a top pick!

Mar 27, 2024

Forum Top Posters

Latest Articles

Using leading lines in photography helps improve the composition by drawing viewers in and leading their eye from the foreground to the background. Explore some fine examples of this in this guide!

Apr 24, 2024

The Insta360 has one of the best lineups of action cams and 360-degree cameras. With these Insta360 accessories, you can elevate your photography and videography game!

Apr 24, 2024

Creating impactful photos of landscapes depends on many factors, not the least of which is your talent behind the lens. This guide explores other elements required for the best product.

Apr 23, 2024

The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!

Apr 22, 2024

Are you ready to upgrade your camera? Before buying new, you might consider the value of purchasing used gear to save money.

Apr 18, 2024

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a micro four thirds camera released in 2020. It’s an entry-level system along with the OM-D E-M5 Mark III. Use this guide to determine which one is best for you!

Apr 17, 2024

Blue hour photography might not be as well known as golden hour photography, but it is every bit as good a time to create epic images of landscapes. Learn how in this quick tutorial!

Apr 17, 2024

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024