Introduction

I have lived in Guangzhou for almost two years at the time of writing this article. Like many large Chinese cities, it boasts great diversity in its people, food, and culture due to the mixture of locals and migrants from low-income rural areas seeking economic and social opportunities in the city. Guangzhou is vibrant, busy, and fast-paced, which can be a little daunting at first; however, there are many social opportunities and groups for newcomers and foreigners to join.

Best Area for Street Photography in Guangzhou

Guangzhou is divided into several districts, including Panyu, known for its rich cultural diversity and large expatriate community, and Tianhe, which features many modern high-rise buildings and contemporary architecture. The best area for street photography in Guangzhou is Yuexiu. This district boasts numerous old buildings, street stalls, small shops, and a vibrant atmosphere. Beijing Road is the main shopping street in Yuexiu; however, I recommend exploring the surrounding areas for better photo opportunities rather than focusing solely on the main street.

Fly on the wall Photography for Beginners

Being discreet, or like a fly on the wall, is a fundamental aspect of street photography. While China offers unique opportunities for photographers, this can be especially challenging for foreigners, as I am often stared at even when I am not carrying a camera. Here are some tips to help you become a fly on the wall:

1. Use a small, discreet camera.

2. Use a rangefinder camera or set your camera to continuous focus with a fast shutter speed.

3. Wear discreet clothing that helps you blend in.

4. Use the camera’s viewfinder and keep it close to your body instead of holding it out where everyone can see.

5. Act as if you are photographing the background rather than the person, and avoid making eye contact.

Gear and Settings

For the images below, I used a Fujifilm X100Vi. I typically shoot with a minimum shutter speed of 1/500, although I often use higher speeds to capture sharp images. My aperture settings usually range between f/5.6 and f/8. I generally set the camera to continuous focus mode, as I frequently photograph people moving across the frame.