Nottingham Street Photography - Feb 2016

Nottingham Street Photography – Feb 2016

Venturing into Street Photography: Our First Experience in Nottingham

Street photography has always been an art form that intrigued me. The candid expressions, the raw emotions, and the stories hidden in plain sight — it’s a world of its own. One day, my workmate and I decided to step out of our comfort zones and try our hand at it. Our destination? The bustling streets of Nottingham.

It was our first-ever attempt at street photography, and, to our surprise, it wasn’t as intimidating as we’d imagined. Armed with my trusty 50mm lens, I quickly realized this choice had its own set of challenges. With a 50mm lens, you need to get close — really close. This intimacy can make for some incredible shots, but it also puts you face-to-face with your subjects, quite literally.

As we wandered the streets, we captured a mix of moments: a vendor lost in thought, a musician passionately strumming his guitar, and the hurried pace of people crossing intersections. The city was alive, and every corner seemed to tell a story. Not everyone appreciated having a lens pointed at them, and that’s understandable. A few folks gave us puzzled looks, and some simply turned away. It’s all part of the experience.

One interaction stood out above the rest. While framing a shot, we caught the attention of a lively gentleman who, instead of shooing us away, invited us for a drink. It was such an unexpected gesture! Before we knew it, we found ourselves sharing a table, sipping on beers, and chatting about life. Moments like these remind me why I love photography: it’s not just about the pictures but also about the connections you make along the way.

Our first street photography adventure in Nottingham was a mix of nerves, excitement, and discovery. Using the 50mm lens taught me about the importance of perspective and the courage it takes to get close. It also made me realize how street photography is more than just capturing images; it’s about immersing yourself in the world around you.

I’m already looking forward to the next outing. Maybe next time, I’ll try a wider lens to capture more of the surroundings. Until then, Nottingham will always hold a special place in my heart for being the backdrop of my first foray into street photography. If you’ve been thinking about giving it a shot, my advice? Just grab your camera and step outside. You never know what stories await you.