Street Photography Flashcards

The concept of the 'decisive moment' in street photography was famously described by which photographer?

Answer: Henri Cartier-Bresson

Henri Cartier-Bresson coined 'the decisive moment' to describe capturing the peak instant where action, geometry, and emotion align perfectly.

Which type of camera is most favored by street photographers for its discreetness and quiet operation?

Answer: Mirrorless or rangefinder camera

Mirrorless and rangefinder cameras are smaller, quieter, and less intimidating, making them ideal for unobtrusive street photography.

What focal length range is most commonly recommended for street photography to produce natural-looking perspectives?

Answer: 35mm or 50mm

35mm and 50mm lenses closely approximate the human eye's field of view, producing natural-looking images without distortion.

In street photography, 'zone focusing' refers to:

Answer: Pre-setting focus to a specific distance range so the camera is always ready to shoot

Zone focusing involves pre-setting the focus distance and using a small aperture for deep depth of field, eliminating focus delay during spontaneous shooting.

In the United States, street photography in public spaces is generally protected under which legal principle?

Answer: First Amendment right to freedom of expression

The First Amendment protects the right to photograph in public spaces where there is no reasonable expectation of privacy.

For zone focusing on the street, which aperture setting provides the deepest depth of field?

Answer: f/8 or f/11

Apertures like f/8 or f/11 create a large depth of field, meaning subjects at varying distances remain in focus without readjusting the lens.

What is the 'hyperfocal distance' and why is it useful in street photography?

Answer: The focus distance that maximizes depth of field from half that distance to infinity

Focusing at the hyperfocal distance ensures everything from half that distance to infinity is acceptably sharp, ideal for fast-paced street shooting.