Gaining confidence.

[Galaxy66]

Is it me or are there others out there who like me when it comes to taking some shots, decide not to because of being a little self-conscious of oneself in public. There have been times when I would have loved to have taken certain shots especially with the use of a tripod and I have just not had the confidence to do so in public.
So is it just me, what are the best ways to overcome this? I do feel that if I manage to post some really good shots and are well received on this forum that will go a long way towards giving me the confidence I need in public.

Or should I just lie down on the shrinks couch and listen to him

 

[dazzajl]

Just get out there and do it. If needs be, play a part and be someone else rather than yourself for a half an hour. Just to see how easy it is. The simple fact is that you'll be almost invisible while you're out there shooting anyway.

As for the feedback on here, it's always nice if folks like what you're shooting but you need to do it to please yourself first and work towards your own vision and style.

 

[WanderingMind]

I'm the same and self conscious around people, i'm really introverted too lol
I think the only way to overcome it is to just do it and it will get easier, something I am trying to do myself I'm fine out in the countryside, people look at the tripod and just carry on walking, but iv'e yet to take a tripod into town/city. Getting a shooting buddy perhaps might help.

Feedback - I think some will always like your shot, some won't, others will offer constructive criticism - it's all good really

 

[jason90]

Like posted above you just need to get out there and do it, most people will just ignore you anyhow

At the end of the day who cares what they think, you will probably never see them again

Good luck

 

[ConfusedChicca]

I asked the self same question when I first started.. a few months later and I'll fladly whip my camera out in public if I see something I want to take a pic of.
If anyone approaches you, explain you're a freelance photographer taking some shots for your portfolio.
x

 

[rob.e]

It's an issue thats bothered me before a few times admittedly, but I'm slowly building up towards busier places. I find taking someone along with you helps. Probably bored my sister the other day when I dragged her along with me, but I normally end up picking her up when she's had a few drinks so she can't get out of it

If you can find a friend who also has an interest in photography then that would work well too. I find having someone to chat to a bit helps as when you aren't looking down the lens you can focus on them rather than any strangers who might be passing by.

Rob

 

[nikoneal]

Yeah I agree, it is uneasy getting your tripod out and panning and snapping in a public place. But once you have done it and looked around.......nobody really cares!

I say that...but as a dad of two young daughters, I would object if I saw a camera and zoom lens pointed at them. So as a photographer, I'm understanding of the issue and reflect on what I would myself being a photographer, deem acceptable.

My first outing in a real public place was in the city, and I appreciated in a short period of time this was the norm for people to just set up a tripod and shoot, and no one cared; in fact I had people coming up to me and posing.

My advice......... just do it! if someone questions you on your methods or approach, involve them.

If your worried about being confronted, go with another photographer.....and if your pictures are legitimate, if things ever get heated, wait for the old bill to arrive, never ever walk away from the scene, that will only make you look as if your trying to hide something.

Am I making sense....or just waffling?.......someone stop me!:bonk: