Hi,
after today’s Gate Experience, I thought it may be worth posting a PDF I have which is a media lawyer’s interpretation of the UK law and your rights as a photographer. It’s a complex issue, and it revolves around where you, the photographer, are when the picture is taken.

As amateur (and even professional) photographers are being challenged more and more over their camera use in public places (some being arrested merely for taking pictures in public), it’s worth noting that not all public places are really public, and moreover when in a proper public place, there is no right to privacy per se. However, it’s always polite to ask first, and wise to check first when at an organised event.

Indeed, last year there was a scare that the government would restrict public photography, and would require camera users to carry ID cards to prove that they were legit. This turned out to be bogus, but shows that there is a genuine area of confusion in this area.

It is also worth noting that people with professional camera kit are more likely to be challenged by the authorities and members of the public than those with compact cameras, which is odd because if you were up to no good with a camera, a small pocket camera would be the better choice. A bulky camera like mine is hardly covert, especially with the 70-200mm lens attached.

Anyhow, here is a pertinent quote given today’s event from the PDF:
Next meet - if we are going somewhere for a photo shoot, ask permission in advance. Just to be sure.