Zooming in from a distance gave me my best street shot yet

Last weekend, I took my zoom lens to the farmer's market. Most street photographers swear by prime lenses for being fast and close. I thought I'd test that rule. From across the square, I spotted a vendor sharing a laugh with a little kid. With a quick zoom, I caught their big smiles without stepping in. I got a shot that feels alive and honest. If I had my prime, I might have missed it by moving too slow. So maybe gear rules can hold us back from real moments. Let's focus on the photos, not the lens!

4 comments

4 Comments

leemason5h ago

Getting in close with a prime changes the whole vibe though, you become part of the scene. The interaction feels different when you're right there.

wilson.nancy5h ago

Yeah, @leemason, until you're basically in their personal space and they give you that 'why are you so close' look. It's like you're trying to take a photo, not start a friendship! I've had people step back because I got too into the prime lens vibe. Sometimes being part of the scene means you're just in the way. But hey, at least the shots are worth the awkwardness!

noah4154h ago

My 50mm prime was my go-to until your farmer's market shot, and @wilson.nancy's story, changed my mind.

patricia_hayes2h ago

Prime lenses push you into the action. No hiding behind zoom. It's tough but real photos.