Street Party and Festival Photography

When we hear the words "street fair", "block party", or "festival" we automatically understand that there is about to be a ton of color, activity, and fun. This also translates into a huge array of photographic potential, but a photographer of any level is well-advised to head into such a scenario well-prepared. This is because there are always going to be issues about safety, appropriate gear, and the best techniques for optimal results.

Let's begin with safety. Both the photographer and their gear are going to be at risk when there are crowds of people, loads of food, and perhaps a bit too much merriment. For this reason a photographer should never carry their equipment bag with them to any kind of street party or event. Limiting yourself to a single camera should not be a serious hardship if you prepare yourself for the kinds of photographic opportunities you are likely to encounter. Additionally, when a gathering involves groups of tightly crowded people it might be easy for all kinds of gear to disappear, and this too is another reason to keep equipment to a minimum.

While keeping your gear safe and away from spilled drinks and food is necessary, the overall safety of the photographer is an issue of concern too. For instance, are you aware of anyone who may not want to be included in your photographs? Are you using equipment that won't bang into people's heads or bodies? Have you mapped out the area in advance to find some better positions from which to capture the activity without getting stuck right in the very middle of it?

One of the smartest things that any photographer can do is to explore the venue or neighborhood in advance of the party or festival as this can usually help them determine a few good places to take pictures, remain outside the crowds, and also to discover if there will be any problems with the lighting.

It is here where the selection of gear is a major issue. For an event such as this, the photographer will definitely need their wide angle lens since a telephoto is apt to really get in the way, but they may need to limit distortion if they are getting up close to subjects, so a 35 to 70mm is probably a wise choice. While the flash can be useful during a daytime celebration, it may ruin images at a nighttime festival or event. This means that a consideration of the techniques is just as necessary as the sort of equipment.

Finally, most photographers aim to do a lot of shooting of candid portraiture at such events. There are not many street parties in which the photographer can get permission before pointing and taking the image. Regardless of this fact, however, it is always best to remember to be respectful of those attending the party and enjoying themselves, and to keep your use of flash to a minimum.