How street photography makes you a more outgoing person!

This might be a bold statement for some, but I do stand by it, and I stand by it through experience itself!

Ever since I started street photography out in the great city of São Paulo, Brazil, my home and base, I have realized the power and potential the activity has on personal growth, confidence and health. Street photography has a unique way of bringing out your outgoing side and helping you embrace the world around you. With a camera in hand, you become an observer, a storyteller, and an explorer all at once.

Photograph by - Valentina Narcisi Street Photography - São Paulo, Brazil

I am not gonna lie, the first, or first few times around, it could actually be a little awkward. Being out and about with your camera and taking photos on the street can feel somewhat uncomfortable. To walk around with it, to point it at complete strangers, to ask for permission, and so on...

But the beauty of it is, the more you do it, the more you break those barriers. Now, don't get me wrong. You WILL get some "no's" and some side looks, it's completely natural, which that alone will teach other

skills on self confidence and persistence, but that I'll save for another post. Here's how street photography can make you more outgoing.

Firstly, street photography encourages you to step out of your comfort zone. When you hit the streets with your camera, you're no longer confined to your usual surroundings. You actively seek out interesting scenes, people, and moments, which pushes you to explore unfamiliar neighborhoods, interact with strangers, and engage with the world in a different way. This process naturally boosts your confidence and makes you more open to new experiences.

Secondly, street photography cultivates a sense of curiosity. To capture compelling images, you need to pay attention to the world around you, notice the small details, and observe people's interactions. This heightened curiosity leads to increased awareness of your surroundings and a greater desire to connect with the world. As you become more attuned to your environment, you're more likely to strike up conversations with strangers, ask for permission to take their photograph, and engage in meaningful interactions that you might have otherwise missed out on.

Furthermore, street photography helps you overcome social barriers. As you document the candid moments of people's lives, you learn to appreciate the diversity and beauty of human existence. This understanding fosters empathy and reduces any fear or anxiety you may have about approaching strangers. You begin to see the streets as a stage where countless stories unfold, and you become comfortable interacting with people from all walks of life. Street photography becomes a bridge that connects you to others and encourages a sense of community.

Lastly, street photography allows you to share your perspective with the world. As you capture fleeting moments and unique scenes, you start to develop your own visual voice. Sharing your photographs through exhibitions, online platforms, or social media not only boosts your confidence but also opens up opportunities for dialogue and connection. By putting your work out there, you invite conversations, feedback, and collaborations, which further encourages you to be more outgoing and engage with others who share your passion for photography.

In conclusion, street photography has a transformative power. It encourages you to step out of your comfort zone, ignites your curiosity, helps you overcome social barriers, and allows you to share your unique perspective. Through the lens of your camera, you become an active participant in the world, forging connections, and embracing the beauty of human life. So try it out to check for yourself, grab your camera, hit the streets, and let the magic happens.