Asking Strangers for Photos to Draw: A Guide for Artists

Have you ever seen someone on the street or on the bus that you just couldn't resist drawing? Would you consider asking a stranger for a photo so you can create a portrait? Photography and drawing can be endearing and respectful when approached properly. Here’s your guide on the etiquette and feasibility of asking someone for a photo to draw.

Understanding the Etiquette

It’s important to consider the context and the comfort level of the person you are approaching. Using the power of your art to connect with others can be a beautiful and enriching experience, but it’s crucial to handle it with care. What might seem like a simple request to an artist can come across as awkward or even intrusive to the person being asked.

Most of the time, people will appreciate the compliment and may be flattered. However, there are instances where it might be seen as odd or inappropriate. The key is to approach the situation with respect and permission.

When to Ask for Permission

If you see someone who sparks your interest for a drawing, consider asking for their permission first. This means:

Initiate the conversation with a smile and a friendly gesture. Explain that you are a artist and would love to draw their portrait. Ask for their permission to take a photo and share it with you. Ensure that you have their permission to then use this photo for your artistic purposes.

This not only shows respect for their personal space but also gives them a chance to say no if they are uncomfortable or don't want to be drawn.

Examples of Approaching Strangers

One artist, who often captures cowboys and cowgirls, had a memorable experience. On one occasion, she encountered a lady who had hand-sewn outfits using 135-year-old patterns. With the lady's permission, the artist took multiple photos and eventually shared her detailed drawings. The artist mentioned, 'After I showed them pictures of my work on my phone, I got a couple of genuine smiles and even requests to see more."

Balancing Artistic Eagerness and Respect

Just because you want to draw someone, it doesn’t mean you should always do so immediately. Balancing your enthusiasm for art with respect for personal boundaries is crucial. Here are a few tips on how to handle situations appropriately:

Acknowledge the person first: Introduce yourself and mention what you do. This can help ease any tension and make the encounter more friendly. Explain and understand: Make it clear that you are an artist who wants to draw their portrait. Also, be sensitive to how they might feel about it. Respect their choice: If they say no, respect their decision and perhaps even thank them for considering. Show appreciation: If they respond positively, express gratitude and reassure them that no pressure is on them.

Some artists may find that online resources are just as good for inspiration and practice. If you are unsure about asking a stranger, there are plenty of models and images available that can be seamlessly integrated into your practice.

In conclusion, asking a stranger to take a photo for you to draw can be a wonderful experience as long as you approach it with respect, permission, and consideration for their feelings. Art is about connection and understanding, so let's make sure that any interactions we have with others are also enriching and respectful.