Street photography is unpredictable, fast-paced, and often happens when you least expect it. Capturing those moments requires preparation and awareness, which is why understanding the key principles can make a huge difference in your work.
Coming to you from Justin MottThis engaging video outlines his personal street photography rules. Mott emphasizes the importance of wearing your camera, not just carrying it in your pocket. Street photography is spontaneous and you need to be ready at any moment. Mott’s advice is to set up your settings and keep your camera accessible so you’re not scrambling around when the perfect scene presents itself. He also recommends leaving the lens cap off, as it only slows you down and can cause you to miss shots. These tips are all about efficiency and maximizing your chances of getting a great shot.
Another important point Mott makes is about backing up your work. Don’t wait until the next day—too many things can go wrong. As soon as you get home, back up your memory card to avoid the risk of losing your photos. Mott also stresses the importance of investing in memory card And hard drive. While it may seem like a small detail, quality storage saves you time and time saves you money. His straightforward approach encourages you to prioritize reliability over cost when it comes to essential equipment.
Mott goes on to discuss patience in street photography. He advises not to give up on taking a photo, even if it seems like you’ve missed the moment. Instead, stay with the scene and wait for another opportunity. Often, life will yield a better photo if you give it time. Another important point is not to set up shots or staged moments—letting life unfold naturally will result in more authentic and unique images. Mott warns against copying what others have done before, as this will only lead to repetitive, uninspired work.
One of Mott’s most practical tips is to shoot alone when you’re serious about getting the best shots. While being in a group can be fun, distractions can keep you from fully immersing yourself in your surroundings. Being alone allows you to be more present and focused on capturing the true essence of a scene. Check out the video above for Mott’s full rundown.
