Street photography is a game of chance, and being prepared for unexpected moments is crucial. But just as a hunter who goes out in the woods, preparation can enhance your chances of catching something.
Usually, I have my photobag ready to go. But it’s made for my corporate work. So it’s heavy and pretty full of gear—something I don’t like when hitting the streets.
So I make a smaller setup for when I’m going out to do street photography.
Before I leave the house, I grab my Nikon Z7II and…
… put in a full battery
I check the battery and see if it’s still full. It usually is, but if necessary, I replace it. Depending on how long I plan on staying away, I add a second full battery to my small backpack.
… put in an empty memory card
I also check if there’s a memory card in the slot. Imagine going out, taking the photo of your life, only to discover you forgot a card.
Not only do I check if I have a card, but I also always put in an empty one. I only format my cards when I know I’ve exported the photos and have backups. So at the start of each walk, I format my card.
… choose just one lens
I pick one lens to take on the walk with me. Lately, it’s been the 28mm by default. But I’m thinking about using the 50mm more.
For example, during the Pride Parade, I take a 24-70mm lens with me, as it provides more flexibility for that type of event.
… pick a starting point
My photo walks are often random. I just go somewhere and see where the streets and the light take me. To be honest, it’s often the same places. The only thing set in stone is my starting point.
Often, while locking my front door, I’m thinking about where to go. Once there, I just see what I feel like.
… tell myself it’s okay to come home with no keepers
I also tell myself it’s okay to go home with no keepers. I do tell myself to snap anything I see. As Chris Harrison said to me during his workshop, “Everything is interesting”. I just want to have plenty of options to pick from.
Bonus: Put a bottle of water in my backpack
I also usually add my water bottle to my backpack. It’s a Camelback bottle which keeps my water cool. Very handy to have with you on your (extended) photo walks. Sometimes sunscreen helps too.
What is your pre-walk routine? Let me know in the comments below!
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