Shooting Strangers in the street with Rui Pina.

How do you photograph strangers—up close, with or without their permission—and still walk away with an honest image and your confidence intact? 

In this one-day workshop, Portuguese street photographer Rui Pina invites participants to explore the psychological and visual challenges of photographing people in public spaces. Whether approaching someone directly or capturing a candid moment on the move, the goal is to break the fear barrier and sharpen your instincts. Known for his energetic and confrontational flash style, Rui will guide participants through different methods of engaging with the street and its subjects—helping each photographer define their own threshold between presence, permission, and instinct.  

⚠️  Important: Some activities may overlap. Please check the schedule carefully before booking. Participants will not be able to attend two activities that run at the same time.

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Dates: 27th of September 2025

Language: English / Portuguese

Max. number of Participants: 14

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Workshop Overview

This workshop is all about people: how to approach them, how to read them, and how to photograph them quickly and fearlessly. The day includes an introduction to Rui’s practice, discussion, a live demonstration, and guided street sessions.  

Participants will experiment with a range of techniques, from direct interaction and street portraits to unapologetic candid shots, pushing the boundaries of comfort and rethinking what street portraiture can be.

Provisional Schedule

Saturday, 27 September 2025. 

10:00 – 11:00 · Introduction to Rui’s work
11:00 – 13:00 · Guided photowalk: approaching vs. observing
13:00 – 14:00 · Lunch break
14:00 – 16:00 · Group review, discussion, and practical tips for continued practice
16:00 – 18:00 · Second photowalk

What You’ll Need

• A camera
• On-camera flash is recommended, but not required
• Comfortable shoes for walking
• Notebook or phone for taking notes
  

Location

Faculdade de Belas-Artes da Universidade de Lisboa. (Room information will be shared with participants upon registration.)

Who Should Attend?

This workshop is for photographers who want to overcome hesitation when photographing people in public. It’s ideal for those curious about blending instinct with presence, and about how to navigate the line between candid observation and human connection. Rui’s street photography is direct, emotional, and socially grounded—focused on recognising those often unseen, and capturing spontaneous, meaningful encounters.  

Fujifilm Loan Equipment

Thanks to Fujifilm Portugal, a selection of the latest Fujifilm cameras and lenses will be available to borrow—free of charge—for the duration of one of the workshop's photowalk sessions. Gear will be distributed based on availability and registration order. More details will follow upon confirmation.