![\"Image\"](\"https:\/\/fujifilm-x.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/X-STORY-SMALL-TOWN-STREETS-6.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nPhoto 2023 \u00a9 Brian Lloyd Duckett | FUJIFILM X-T30 and FUJINON XF56mmF1.2 R, 1\/80 sec at F1.2, ISO 2000<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
\u201cI completely accept that, in a small-town environment, street photography is more difficult. It\u2019s a fact,\u201d Brian begins.<\/p>\n
\u201cFirstly, certain kinds of subject matter are lacking. As a result, it\u2019s easy to get drawn into documenting mundane scenes, which are little more than a man crossing the road with a dog, or a busker playing a trumpet.<\/p>\n
\u201cSecondly, there\u2019s often a heightened sense of discomfort when photographing in a small town. Attitudes are usually less cosmopolitan and people with cameras are less commonplace. Having said that, we feel we stand out more than we actually do.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
<\/a><\/p>\nPhoto 2023 \u00a9 Brian Lloyd Duckett | FUJIFILM X-T30 and FUJINON XF56mmF1.2 R, 1\/480 sec at F1.2, ISO 4000<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
So, with setbacks outlined \u2013 along with a firm assurance that they are not indicative of your competence as a creative \u2013 how might they be overcome? One important step, according to Brian, is to reframe your vision.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe need to be realistic about what\u2019s possible,\u201d he notes. \u201cDon\u2019t expect to find Winogrand-like opportunities around every corner because they won\u2019t be there. Instead, focus on the sort of street images that rely on light, form or colour. Do something more aesthetically focused, which is frankly the sort of material you could find just about anywhere.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe can also explore that interesting space where street meets documentary,\u201d Brian continues. \u201cLook at some of the great work US street photographer Mark Cohen did in the small town of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Cohen was born in and produced most of his work there.\u201d<\/p>\n
Local events fit Brian\u2019s bill perfectly. Even in small communities, you may see a surprising turnout \u2013 and expanded photographic opportunities.<\/p>\n
\u201cVisit country fairs, shows, markets, village fetes, festivals, local protests,\u201d he says. \u201cMost towns have gatherings all throughout the year, which can be photographed in a spontaneous way, or give you the focus for a project.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
<\/a><\/p>\nPhoto 2023 \u00a9 Brian Lloyd Duckett | FUJIFILM X100V, 1\/200 sec at F11, ISO 200<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
Learnt through years of experience, this knowledgeable professional also emphasises the importance of seizing the here and now. Street photography is all about a fleeting moment in time, but it\u2019s easy to romanticise years gone by. The simple fact is, glimpses of history viewed through the imagery of others are novel, but so too will be your own images given time.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ve discussed the idea of being a history maker before, using Joel Meyerowitz as an example,\u201d Brian muses. \u201cWe would all love to be blessed with the great street scenes in fifties Rome, sixties New York, or say Tokyo in the eighties \u2013 but we\u2019re not. The pictures we make are contributing to the photographic history of the world, though, however ordinary the scenes appear now. I\u2019ve decided personally that there\u2019s absolutely no point in trying to replicate the great work of 50 years ago. Why try to add to a long-gone conversation?\u201d<\/p>\n
As with inner-city street photography, feelings of discomfort while photographing in public diminish over time. It\u2019s human nature to adjust to virtually any new experience. Still, Brian has discovered a few ways to expedite the process.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
<\/a><\/p>\nPhoto 2023 \u00a9 Brian Lloyd Duckett | FUJIFILM X100V, 1\/1100 sec at F4, ISO 400<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
\u201cConsider getting yourself known,\u201d he states. \u201cDon\u2019t hide. Be open and confident about what you\u2019re doing. Maybe even create a little notoriety, if that\u2019s the right word. When people show interest in what you\u2019re doing, be open, relaxed and friendly. Photographing in an extremely covert way can appear strange, so don\u2019t hide behind your camera. Acknowledge people, smile at them, chat about what you\u2019re doing. Trust me, anyone who follows this kind of approach will have much more of a positive and enjoyable experience.\u201d<\/p>\n
Camera and lens choice are also key for reasons beyond image quality and technical capabilities. The entire X Series range is designed to be compact, but a select few bodies and primes find a natural home on the street. For Brian, the fixed-lens FUJIFILM X100V<\/a> is the optimal choice for those uncomfortable with drawing too much attention.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n