Pete ...In answer to your question .I am NO expert ,However it seems to me there is an acute line between what Matt Stuart does ie clever and other"Street"Photography which can appear ordinary.

I have no problem taking images at events of People ,When it comes to walking around town looking for "something" well thats a lot harder! and frustrating ..maybe there is self precieved pressure to get something ..I find it difficult .

I agree with your other comments of the easy option of people on phones.