Sunday Street Photography In Spain

My friends from Photography class call it “Creepin”. My cousin MJ says it’s “Photojournalism” and the official term is “Street Photography.” The rules for Street Photography are fairly vague. Since privacy laws don’t apply to public spaces, street performers are fair game for photographers. Can I help it if someone walks, bikes, or skateboards into my photo? I often reques consent verbally or with a nod toward my camera, and other times I just sneak the photo. It’s the old dilemma of ask for permission now or beg for forgiveness later.

People do add something to the scenery. For me, one of the joys of travel is observing people at work and play. The Spanish work day is long, so people embrace their time off.

Sundays in Spain are especially good people watching days. The streets are quiet in the morning; it seems that everyone sleeps late, except for joggers and churchgoers. Stores, markets, and banks are closed, as are public buildings and some museums. By early afternoon, the paseo (stroll) begins! Spanish couples and families take to the plazas, parks, beaches, and cafés to enjoy the sunshine. Most are fashionably dressed, even the children; especially the children.

Leisure is an art form, and the Spanish have perfected it. They can linger for hours over a cup of coffee or a single glass of beer or wine. Bill has termed it “the Spanish sip”. Lift the glass, bring the liquid to your lips, but keep your lips gently closed. There is no stigma to day drinking, but public intoxication is rare. Although, I have occasionally been awakened by loud singing in the street after closing time. Conversation never seems to wane, but most of the time seems to be about pretty much nothing. (at least to my ear). Restaurants do a big Sunday business for the afternoon meal. It is best to have a reservation. By Sunday night, many places have closed their kitchen. Street life gets quiet as people head home to rest up for a new week.