Successful Shite-Snapping Secrets Sought

[Justin Case]

Made a rare visit to our nearest large supermarket and the car park contained a Peugeot 305 estate, Fiat Uno based van adapted to carry a wheelchair, VW Caddy pickup, and an immaculate and unmolested 3-door Nova amongst others. Obviously I would have liked to capture them on camera, but I was a bit wary in case my innocent acts would be taken as something more sinister. So, any tips on a good way to take photos in public CCTV monitored car parks without arousing suspicion would be very much appreciated.

[retrogeezer]

I just use my phone and snap whatever I fancy...even if people are in the car I will just pretend I'm dialing a number, take the photo discreetly then walk off with the phone to my ear.Never had any problems.

[reallyloud]

I'm quite brazen when it comes to shots - taking snaps from the car is obviously the best option - try the direct approach and ask the owner - in most cases they will be more than happy if slightly confused. I carry my camera everywhere and will snap at any car that looks interesting.I have taken quite a few shots in my time(!) and I have only got into trouble 3 times - twice for trespassing, the other was being in a fairly dodgy area in Coventry at the wrong time. I managed to talk my way out of the trespassing thing and the 2nd time I simply put my foot down and got the f*ck out of the there - and that was only for a snap of a Talbot horizon.I wouldn't be too worried about it, just be aware of your surroundings - the kind of people that might notice you and be discreet - you're not breaking any laws if stay within public land. Mobile phone snaps are almost a fool proof way of capturing car shite, so I think you can afford to not be too concerned about the cctv cameras.

[Spottedlaurel]

I’m like DC and tend to use a real camera, not a phone. If someone is around I’ll ask, otherwise I just take the picture from somewhere public and be on my way. I tend to turn the flash off because a) it draws attention and it doesn’t look good with reflection off the number plate and reflectors. Try and frame your shot cleanly, lowering the camera’s viewpoint down a foot or two often gets rid of clutter or dull, modern cars in the background. But sometimes a stray washing machine, upturned wheelie bin or WHY adds a bit of atmosphere.Try not to include anything that gives away a car’s location too readily, at least if it’s parked up at a house. Slightly different with a car out and about as there’s nothing to trace it back to where it usually lives.Pay particular attention to budget supermarkets – I had a good run at the local Lidl, though it’s noticeable how much less is about now than two years ago due to the strong scrap price.Be considerate if you park up and take a quick snap, and don’t get run over trying to compose the perfect shot.Only Baz on here has actually got in any kind of official trouble, with Police waiting for him after someone had got his registration. Thinking on that, and the recent story about bus-spotters being harrassed, probably not wise to take snaps outside schools…Try and take the opportunity to drive a slightly different route to usual, or pointlessly round a housing estate, it’s amazing what you’ll find hidden away yards from somewhere you regularly travel through.Most importantly, keep your eyes peeled and your camera with you at all times – even just a 5-minute walk to the shops might reveal something new.

[pompei]

I've taken a few snaps when I've been wheeling the infant in his pushchair - place said buggy in between you and your subject and when you are snapping some sh!tter it looks as though you are capturing the boy and heir. Obviously I wouldn't recommend becoming a father just to assist your photo exploits ...

[Ross_K]

I spotted a bunch of dodgy looking Romanian gyppos in the most shagged-looking Mondeo ever this morning.I was watching them for an opportunity to get a photo but the five of them were just sitting there giving me the evil eye. I didn't bother in the end in case they thought I was immigration and battered my head in with a wheel brace so they could 'escape'.

[Justin Case]

Thanks all of you for some very helpful replies ; the infant decoy is not an instant option for me, but a well-trained dog might be an idea So, I will try strolling around without looking too suspicious, and see what photo-opportunities present themselves. I've also noticed one or two interesting garages so I'll see if I can capture them too.