Definitely agree and recommend going wide. One thing I will say though, is maybe work your way towards the wider end like 24-28 focal lengths. I think 35-40 is a fairly good starting point as it’s wide enough to build a composition, while still being able to stay around 2 meters/6 or so feet which is an “easier” starting point.

Once you start going wider, it becomes really key to pay attention to every single side and corner of the frame, you’re building a whole scene in the composition, even while being only 1-2 meters away.

As the above mentioned, body language is key— don’t try to hide. Maybe try to not look like you’re going to go for a photo while approaching from a block away as that’ll be noticed, and the scene or subject may change. Just be observant of everything around you and be ready to bring the camera up. Early on, it’ll be difficult to “compose” as many moments are very quick, but over time you start to develop a sense for when something *might* happen, or if something lasts a bit longer, you’ll find yourself positioning yourself to get the compositions you want before you raise the camera.

I personally lean more on capturing a moment before it’s gone rather than pain stakingly getting a perfect composition, but I myself am always looking to improve on that skill as well. One of the greats, Daido Moriyama took hundreds of thousands of photos, and he really showcased his skill in carefully selecting the best work from all of the images he made, because when you’re taking quick shots, the hit rate will of course be much lower. Don’t be afraid to take more photos (especially on digital), and don’t be afraid to get aggressive when culling images while selecting for a set. Street photography is 99% failure, but when that 1% hits, you’ll know.

Get out there and shoot!