Shooting Techniques
In this section, I list the various shooting poses I use, discuss why I like each pose, and rate the poses for getting different types of shots.
1. Scratching the Elbow
This pose is really useful and it looks really natural. Basically, you want to pretend to scratch your elbow with one hand while holding your phone with the other. This method is what I use for 90% of my photos. Your hands should look something like this (pretend there’s a phone in their right hand):
This is by far my favorite shooting technique. If you’re bold enough, you can use it to get real up close and personal with your subject, like this:
You can also use it for full-body shots from a short distance away:
2. The Backpack Strap
For this method, you must be wearing a backpack. Pretend to use the straps to hold the backpack up; hold your phone in either one of your hands.
This shot is really similar to the first one, but is less efficient since you need to be wearing a backpack. Here are a few shots I’ve taken using this technique:
3. The Shirt Pocket
Self-explanatory. Stick your phone in the pocket on a shirt. A little suspicious, but you can get nice photos. This one is really good for cashiers and other store workers.
Here are the types of shots that I take with this method:
4. The Phone Call
This one is alright. Basically, you pretend to take a phone call; secretly, you’re filming. I’ve gotten decent shots with this method but it’s hard to get a good angle and you have to pretend to talk on the phone. This technique can be useful for very specific situations but really is not my favorite.
5. The Desk Phone
The only thing this technique is good for is taking candids of cashiers. Basically, you just set your hand and phone down on the desk, phone pointing towards your subject. Here are a couple of shots I’ve gotten using this method:
How to Not Get Caught
It is really easy to not get caught. Everyone in today’s world has a phone, so the majority of all women will not react at all if they see you holding yours. My biggest tip is act natural and confident! These techniques I described are natural looking ways of holding your phone. Never point your phone straight at them unless you’re absolutely sure no one can see you or you deliberately want to be caught. If you do get called out, deny it until your last breath. Everyone has a phone after all, and just because you’re holding one doesn’t mean you were using it to take pictures, especially if you’re holding it in a way that looks natural.
General Tips
1. Know when to accept your losses.
This was the hardest part for me. I used to try and get a decent photo no matter the costs, and it once ended really horribly. Some subjects will simply be impossible to get a good photo of. Learn how to tell when you’re not going to get a good shot and GTFO!.
2. Act Natural
This might be hard for some people, including me. When talking to cashiers or workers, try and make natural conversation. It will draw focus away from your camera. When you’re walking behind someone, don’t look at your phone and try not to look at your subject. Just like it’s rude to point, it’s a bad idea when you start to point your camera.
3. Don’t Focus on One Subject for Too Long
Try not to follow a subject for more than a few minutes. Trust me, when the guy who was walking behind someone follows them around the mall and into multiple stores, it looks a little suspicious. Get your good videos and photos, and then GTFO!
4. Hide the Screen
Use an app or simply turn your brightness all the way down when taking photos. Your subject might not see but people behind you will definitely notice.
Best Areas for Candids
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Target
Target is probably the best place for taking candids. College-aged girls and expensive products combine to make the perfect melting pot of rich, vain, and attractive shoppers. Also, it must be a store policy to hire the most beautiful cashiers and workers you’ve ever seen.
2. The Mall
The mall is similar to target in that it’s filled with self-absorbed women trying to spend as much money as possible. This usually means they’re attractive - expect lots of blondes in leggings! There are also multiple different stores, each one with different employees. Pro tip: try Forever 21, Aeropostale, and H+M for the most attractive workers.
3. Wal-Mart
Wal-Mart is nice because there are always lots of subjects to choose from; however, you’re going to have to dig deep to truly find any good ones. The workers are usually hotter than the shoppers.
4. Out in Public
Take a walk on the wild side; catch some fresh air and hit up downtown for lots of good opportunities.
Other Thoughts
Overall, I hope using this guide increases your confidence and quality. Let me know if any of these techniques work for you, and definitely share the photos you take using my tips. As a last note, asking employees which way the restroom is always makes for a nice shot:
Good luck and happy shooting!
