As a street photographer I have defined my ethics on Street Photography, I’ve learned that capturing authentic moments in public spaces comes with real responsibility. Over the years, I’ve wrestled with many ethical questions about my work. Should I ask for permission? How close is too close? What happens when I encounter vulnerable people?

My Approach to Interactions

When I first started shooting street photos, I tried to be completely invisible, never interacting with my subjects. I was trying to follow the Henri Cartier-Bresson approach – you know, being that “detached observer” who captures the perfect candid moment.

But honestly, as I’ve grown as a photographer, my ethics on Street Photography changed and now I’ve found myself moving away from this strict rule. Sometimes, I actually prefer to connect with people I photograph. In fact, some of my favorite shots came after chatting with strangers and asking if I could take their picture.

What I’ve discovered is that there’s no “right” or “wrong” way to approach street photography. Each situation calls for a different approach, and you have to trust your instincts.

Permission: To Ask or Not to Ask?

The big question most beginners ask me is, “Do I need permission to photograph people?” Well, it depends.

In most places, it’s perfectly legal to photograph people in public spaces without asking. However, laws definitely vary between countries, so I always recommend checking local regulations before shooting.

That said, legal doesn’t always mean ethical. Here’s how I handle it:

• When I’m photographing from a distance, I usually don’t ask for permission
• If I’m getting close to someone (within a few feet), I’ll often introduce myself
• For close-up portraits, I almost always ask first

Surprisingly, most people react positively when approached respectfully. I’ve had some wonderful conversations start because I asked, “Would you mind if I took your photo?” Asking is part of my ethics on Street Photography

Vulnerable Populations: Think Twice

Over time, I’ve become much more cautious about photographing people in vulnerable situations. Early in my career, I’d snap photos of homeless individuals without much thought, but now I ask myself tough questions first: Why am I taking this picture? Am I exploiting someone’s hardship?

As a general rule, if taking a particular photo makes me feel uncomfortable or guilty, I don’t press the shutter. I’ve found this simple gut check helps me stay true to my values.

Respect and Empathy Above All

At the end of the day, I try to photograph people the way I’d want to be photographed myself. This means:

• Being polite and non-intrusive
• Respecting when someone doesn’t want their photo taken
• Considering how my images might affect the people in them

I’ve learned that courtesy goes a long way in defusing potential conflicts. There’s nothing “cool” about being rude or sneaky to get a shot.

Finding Your Purpose

The most important question I ask myself before pressing the shutter is simply: “Why am I taking this photo?”

Is it to document a genuine human moment? To highlight something beautiful or thought-provoking? Or am I just trying to get likes on social media?

Street photography isn’t just about what something looks like—it’s about creating something unique and surprising that makes people think and feel. My best images reveal something about the subject, but they also reveal something about me as the photographer and my ethics on Street Photography.

Final Thoughts about ethics on Street Photography

Remember that street photography is as much about the process as it is about the final image. Be mindful, be respectful, and keep questioning your motivations.

And most importantly, as Tony Ray-Jones famously said: “Don’t take boring photos.” I’d add to that: Don’t take disrespectful ones either.

What’s your ethics street photography? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!