By : Nikon School Blog | 16 Jun, 2015 |
When the street photographer in you is crying out loud for new challenges, try heading to the nearest market place. Not only are they some of the most interesting places to shoot, but they also offer many challenges that can make you a better photographer, once you learn to overcome them.
Markets have all the ingredients of a great photograph – people, action, textures, play of light, and unexpected moments.
The people in any market place can make excellent portraits. However, the challenges are many. Firstly to photograph them during their work can disturb them. A good idea is to spend time around the chosen area before you start shooting so that the person gets comfortable with you around. If someone is unfriendly, or even hostile, it's better to look elsewhere. Wasting time in vain at one place may cost you many other good images.
The second challenge is always the light. Most markets are under some shade, making the scene a low light area; and, your subjects are moving. Do not hesitate to go for faster shutter speeds with moderately high ISO values like 800 or even 1600. You can also experiment with motion by deliberately shooting at slow shutter speeds.
While shooting close-ups with telephoto zooms like the AF-S VR ZOOM-NIKKOR 70-300MM F/4.5-5.6G IF-ED is a good option, you can be more creative if you use wider angles to get the portrait and their surroundings, these are called 'environmental portraits'.
Markets are full of activity and you must brave the crowds and the discomfort to capture the chaotic hustle. Reach a market at peak time to get the most compelling images.
It will help if you can do a recce of the planned location of your shoot to ensure you get the best light and action. At certain areas, you may come across attractive play of light. These should be your primary focus areas.
Look for colours. They are everywhere in any market. You can opt for contrasting colours as well as decide on a colour scheme throughout the frame. Similarly, textures and patterns are everywhere; you just have to look for them.
You may come across heavily tinted light due to the canopies overhead. Its best to use auto white balance and RAW format to bring out the best colours later.
Changing angles can add drama and interest to any market shot. Try to get a vantage point from where you can get a top angle view. Also, get low at times to create dramatic views of the activities.
Just as soldiers become battle hardy by facing stiff challenges on the field, many outings in market places will better your technical as well as composition skills.
