There’s something magnetic about photographing people. After all, humans are the heartbeat of visual storytelling. But photographing people, especially strangers, comes with a lot of consideration. An ethical one. One that asks not just “Can I take this photo?” but also, “Should I?”
Ever hovered your finger over the shutter button while someone walked by, unsure whether to shoot or not? You’re not alone. Street, travel, and documentary photography live in this grey space of candid versus consent, art versus intrusion, storytelling versus respect.
Let’s explore how to approach it with thoughtfulness and humanity.
First, Let’s Talk About Consent
One of the biggest questions that comes up when photographing people is:
Do I need to ask?
The short answer? It depends.
The longer answer? It depends on context, culture, intent, and distribution.
In Some Cultures, A Camera Isn’t Just a Camera
A few years ago, I was photographing in Morocco, completely enamored by the colors, light, and street life. But it didn’t take long before I noticed something important: many Moroccans do not want to be photographed.
Some turned their heads. Others held up their hand as a clear “no.” Even when I asked politely, I was often met with discomfort or refusal. And honestly? That taught me more than any photography workshop ever could.
It reminded me that a good image is never worth making someone feel exposed or disrespected.
Remember that you’re entering someone’s reality for a split second. What will you take from it?
Candid vs. Consent: Can You Ever Photograph Without Asking?
Norwegian photographer Johnny Haglund, who’s spent decades photographing in some of the world’s most remote corners, once shared with me how he approaches this dilemma.
Sometimes, if the scene would change by announcing himself, he shoots from the hip, quietly and discreetly. When the moment calls for deeper connection, he does the opposite: He smiles. He chats. He spends time with people, letting them relax into his presence before ever lifting the lens.
It’s a balance: knowing when to be invisible, and when to be fully seen.
And you get better at it by doing both.
What If You’re Pitching to a Magazine or Publication?
Here’s where ethics meet legality.
If you’re planning to pitch a photo essay or story to a publication, especially if your images include identifiable individuals, you should:
- Get consent wherever possible
- Build rapport if it’s an in-depth project
- Include context in your pitch (how you approached your subjects, what permission you had)
- Avoid misrepresentation or exploitation
For editorial work (like photojournalism), formal model releases aren’t always required, but ethical responsibility is. If it’s for commercial use (ads, posters, etc.), you absolutely need signed model releases.
But even when it’s not legally required, consider:
Would I be okay seeing myself in this photo, in this context, without my knowledge?
So, Should You Always Ask?
Here’s a practical guide:
| Situation | Ask First? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Street Photography (General Public) | Not always | If it’s a wide shot, crowd, or unidentifiable people, usually fine. If it’s close-up and intimate, consider asking. |
| Travel Photography | Preferably, yes | Especially in places where cameras are less common or culturally sensitive. |
| Documentary Projects | Absolutely | Spend time, build trust, let people understand your presence and purpose. |
| Events / Protests | Depends | Public events are usually fair game, but be mindful of safety, vulnerability, and intent. |
| Children | Always | Full stop. Always ask a parent or guardian. |
Tips for Photographing People Ethically
01. Smile First, Shoot Second
Kindness softens suspicion. When people feel truly seen, they’re more likely to let you in.
02. Shoot, Then Ask (Sometimes)
If the moment is fleeting, shoot it—but follow up. Show the person the image. Ask for permission retroactively. Delete it if they’re uncomfortable.
03. Respect ‘No’ Without Pushing
A “no” isn’t a challenge to overcome, it’s a clear boundary. Respect it, and thank them anyway.
04. Give Something Back
If you spend time with someone, share your work. Print a photo, email them the series, say thank you in more than words.
05. Think Before You Post
Even if the photo is legal, is it kind? Is it accurate? Are you telling their story—or yours, at their expense?
Final Thoughts
Photographing people is a privilege. It’s one of the most intimate forms of storytelling. You won’t always get it right. But what you can do, is remembering that behind every image is a full human being,
Do you have your own story about photographing people abroad? Drop it in the comments, I’d love to hear how you approach it!
MELISSA MARTINSEN 