Response to "Street Photography"

In the past two years I have been experimenting with street photography. I have learned that once you bring the camera to your eye you stand a good chance of losing a good shot. When the subject becomes aware the entire scene changes. I have tried using longer lenses and it works sometimes. The most effective technique for me is shooting from the hip. Currently I use a Leica M6, motorwinder, 24mm aspheric lens, long cable release inside pocket, set the shutter speed for 125th or 250th second and the fstop at anywhere from f8 to f16 depending on the light. The camera hangs on a strap at mid-chest level. I use Ilford Delta 400 film. This setup has proven the most effective for me. The 24mm allows you to get closer to the subject without their awareness. Any non-autofocus camera could be used as long as it's relatively quiet.

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