14 Tips How to shoot Street Photography If You're Shy
If you love the idea of street photography but feel too shy to point your camera at strangers, you’re not alone. Many photographers — especially beginners — struggle with confidence when shooting in public. I am no exception here!
But being introverted doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the magic of capturing authentic urban moments. With a few simple mindset shifts and practical strategies, you can still create beautiful (fine art) street images — even or especially in a busy city like Berlin, London or Paris.
Here’s how to get started, even if the thought of street photography makes your palms sweat.
1. Choose the Right Lens
A discreet lens can make a world of difference. A 35mm or 50mm prime lens is small, fast, and doesn’t scream “professional photographer.” If you prefer keeping more distance, a longer lens like an 85mm or a zoom lens (e.g., 70-200mm) - find my recommended gear here - allows you to stay further in the back, which can feel more comfortable when you're starting out. Here is what I use on a typical day of street photography in Berlin.
💡 Try this: Use a pancake lens or shoot with your phone in manual mode. If you want to stay unnoticed, longer lenses are a great way to observe from afar without losing detail.
2. Use Distance to Your Advantage
You don’t need to get close to people to capture emotion. Use natural framing, long shadows, or reflections to include people from a distance.
💡 Try this: Position yourself across the street and wait for someone to walk through your scene. Think of your composition as a stage and let the action come to you.
3. Shoot From the Hip
Shooting without raising your camera to your eye can help you avoid drawing attention. With practice, you’ll learn to frame scenes intuitively.
Because what draws the attention of many people to you is when you raise your (large) camera at the exact moment they walk past.
💡 Try this: Use the tilt screen on your camera or activate burst mode on your phone. Practice on static subjects before trying it in motion.
4. Go for Candid Moments, Not Confrontation
You don’t have to photograph people’s faces to tell a story. Hands, body language, silhouettes, and shadows can be just as powerful.
💡 Try this: Focus on gestures, movements, or people interacting with architecture. These details can turn ordinary urban scenes into compelling fine art.
5. Visit Busy Places Where You’re Less Noticed
Larger crowds and touristy spots make it easier to blend in. In Berlin, try areas like Alexanderplatz, Hackescher Markt, or public transport hubs.
💡 Try this: Set up near a busy location and wait. When you stay still, people stop noticing you — and you’ll start to disappear into the environment.
6. Go Out With a Friend
Shooting with another photography friend can help ease your nerves. You’ll feel less exposed and can motivate each other.
I notice this every time I take part in a workshop or photo walk (even if it's only with one other person). I was immediately much more relaxed and had - almost - no problem at all with taking photos of people, even if they were obvious. Because from the outside it was recognisable that it was obviously a group of photographers and this ‘official character’ always gave me a lot more self-confidence.
💡 Try this: Plan a photo walk with a fellow local photography friend. Share your favorite tips and build your confidence together.
7. Use Composition to Tell the Story
Composition can be your strongest ally. Use techniques like leading lines, framing, and negative space to guide the viewer’s eye without relying on people as your central subject.
💡 Try this: Practice by photographing architecture or shadows before adding people to your compositions.
8. Reframe Shyness as Observation
Being quiet is a strength. It allows you to observe, anticipate, and capture moments others miss.
💡 Mindset shift: You’re not intruding — you’re documenting. Your respectful distance is part of your unique style. :)
9. Try the "Fishing" Approach Instead of "Hunting"
One of the most helpful mindset shifts for shy photographers - and has been for me as well - is changing your approach from hunting to fishing.
Hunting means walking around, actively seeking subjects, and often getting close. This can feel confrontational for introverts, since you're clearly making people the focus of your image.
Fishing, on the other hand, means finding a visually interesting spot — maybe great light or an architectural backdrop — and waiting for the right person to walk through your frame. You’re not chasing the moment; you’re letting it come to you.
People often even apologise because they have supposedly walked through your picture and you were there first.
💡 Try this: Pick a location with strong light or a graphic scene, and simply observe. You’ll feel less pressure and still walk away with powerful photos.
10. Use Sunglasses or Headphones to Build a Barrier
Wearing sunglasses can make you feel less visible, helping ease social anxiety. The lack of eye contact creates a small but effective emotional barrier. Similarly, listening to music with headphones helps you get into a focused zone and block out distractions.
⚠️ Caution: Headphones may reduce awareness of your environment and make you miss audio cues — so use them wisely.
11. Blend In Through Style and Gear
Wear neutral, location-appropriate clothing that helps you blend in. Swap out flashy backpacks for minimal slings and avoid bold colors. Smaller gear, like compact mirrorless cameras or fixed-lens cameras, draws less attention — and gives you more confidence.
12. Use the Back Screen Instead of the Viewfinder
Using your camera’s screen (instead of the viewfinder) makes you appear more like a tourist than a professional. People are less likely to feel watched or judged, which can be reassuring both for them and for you.
13. Be Prepared to Talk (Just in Case)
Sometimes people may ask what you're doing. Instead of panicking, be ready with a simple, kind response. Have a short explanation prepared or even a business card or QR code linking to your Instagram profile or portfolio.
I've only been approached directly on the street twice so far. And both ‘confrontations’ were friendly and not at all as bad as I had feared. One man was a photographer himself and was very interested. The other time I was asked why I was taking photos of the people on the stairs. I described the great lighting situation, showed photos on my camera and also my Instagram account with the finished results. That was enough to show that I wasn't up to any mischief.
14. Know the Law and Know Your Why
Knowing your local street photography laws gives you peace of mind. Equally important: know why you’re doing this. Are you telling stories? Exploring human interaction? Expressing yourself creatively? Confidence grows when purpose is clear.
The topic of ‘is street photography allowed in my country?’ is of course a very big one and not universally applicable. I will write a separate post about the situation in Germany.
Conclusion and why being a woman is a superpower
You don’t have to be loud or bold to be a great street photographer. Being shy can actually give you a quieter, more reflective voice in your images — one that people will connect with.
Whether you’re an experienced urban photographer or just starting out, the streets of Berlin and other (bigger and smaller!) cities are full of stories waiting to be seen. You just need the right tools, a bit of courage, and a mindset that honors your sensitivity.
And one more thought: being a woman might even come with an unexpected advantage in street photography. Society often perceives women as less threatening or suspicious, which can make it easier to work unnoticed or be accepted when photographing in public spaces. It's a quiet superpower worth embracing.
✨ Got tips of your own or questions about overcoming shyness?
