“Puddles, Pigeons & Prime Lenses: A Lighthearted Guide to Composition in Street Photography”

Street photography is a little like people-watching with a camera—except you’re chasing light, dodging umbrellas, and waiting for the perfect moment when everything lines up just right. Whether you’re new to it or just need a refresher, here’s a friendly guide to making the most of your time on the street and how to frame the extraordinary, the weird, and the wonderful in interesting ways—without looking like you’re lost or loitering.

1. Follow the Light (and the Shadows… and the Reflections)

If you’re not paying attention to what the light is doing, you’re missing half the magic. Reflections in puddles, long dramatic shadows, the golden hour glow—it all adds something extra. Look out for things like open doors, reflective windows, and umbrellas. Yes, umbrellas. They’re not just for rain; they’re little props handed to you by the weather gods.

Unusual moments like an umbrella with legs

2. Embrace the Weather—Especially the Rubbish Kind

Bad weather isn’t bad news—it’s a gift. Rainy days mean moody lighting, distracted people, and glorious puddles. Even wind can add drama (especially if someone’s wrestling with an umbrella). It’s all about looking for those creative sparks that only show up when conditions aren’t perfect.

Reflections offer creative opportunities

3. Texting Teens & Street Performers: A Good Warm-Up, Not the Main Act

Sure, people glued to their phones and street performers juggling flaming swords are easy targets. But once you’ve warmed up, look deeper. Hunt for the moments that make you pause, not just what’s easiest to snap.

Tip – if you shoot a street performer, it’s simply polite and good manners to tip them.

4. Prime Time: Stick to 35mm or 50mm (Unless You’re in a Crowd)

Prime lenses keep things simple. A 35mm gives you more context, while a 50mm brings the scene in tighter, helping to isolate your subject.

But if you’re in a hectic crowd and want to pick out interesting details (like someone rocking Crocs with socks and confidence), a telephoto lens can help you zoom in and simplify the scene.

Just be warned: you’ll stand out like a pigeon at a vicars-and-tarts fancy dress party. Not exactly subtle—but sometimes, it’s worth it.

5. Trends Age Like Fine Wine

What seems basic today—bucket hats, chunky trainers, tiny sunglasses—can become iconic tomorrow. Images that capture the look and feel of the present age well over time, so don’t shy away from trendy fashion or signage. Your future self will thank you.

6. Composition: Make It Count

A great subject in a messy composition is like a good song on a broken speaker. Use the rule of thirds, leading lines, and framing techniques to elevate your image. Try this:

• Find a compelling background first.

• Now, look for an anchor—a static object or person.

• Then, wait for the right moving element to enter the frame and complete the scene.

It’s less “hunt and snap” and more “set the stage and wait for the magic.”

7. Plan (Just a Bit)

Spontaneity is the soul of street photography, but having a few locations in mind helps. Think of it like planning a pub crawl—you still wander, but you know where you’re headed next. This gives you a variety of backdrops and keeps things interesting.

8. Frame Within a Frame

Give your photos a little extra “oomph” by framing your subject within something else in the scene. The classic go-to is someone in a doorway or peeking out of a window. But don’t stop there—branches, bus windows, two people chatting with a gap between them… anything can become a frame if you squint creatively enough.

Final Thoughts

Street photography doesn’t have to be scary. Follow the light, look for little moments of magic, and let the streets do most of the heavy lifting. And if all else fails—just follow the pigeons. They’re always up to something weird.

Got your own street photography quirks or pigeon theories? Pop them in the comments!