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.

 

Yes Paul, this is becoming a big issue, clouded by the increasing anti-terrorism paranoia. You all sorts of stories about people being asked to delete pictures from their cards when they've taken pictures in public places - common sense is starting to go out the window!
I once had to hand my camera in to security before they would let me into Birmingham Indoor Arena a while back as it was deemed 'professional'.

Like you say its probably better to ask when we go anywhere else.

 

what venue was this problem at ?

Paul

 

Happens to me all the time. It's starting to really take the joy out of photography for me, which I have been doing for nine years now.

I'm not a professional, but I've learned that my professional-looking camera equipment is irresistible for thick-sculled security types.

One of these days I'm probably going to get arrested for tasering some rent-a-cop who tries to take my equipment from me.

 

This was at Stonor House. Jon smoothed the situation over. I suspect that the arrival of the air ambulance prior to us leaving may have inflamed tampers a little.

 

it may also be that one of their main attractions seems to be that they are used for filming, product launches etc and may be more sensitive than most. If they believed you may be covertly launching something without paying them then that may cause some friction. See here :

http://www.stonor.com/filming.htm

They can't stop members of the public photographing themselves, and probably don't care. I suspect they are sensitive to losing revenue for "corporate" events. You must have all looked very proffesional !

Paul