Public Photography Rules
By Elissa Lerma aka Punk Rock Mom | Leave A Comment
By Elissa Lerma aka Punk Rock Mom | Leave A Comment
I take my camera everywhere I go. To the fair, to farmer’s market, to the park, everywhere. I am always snapping pictures in public places with lots of other people around.
When taking pictures in public places I always hesitate before photographing strangers. I never know what the rules are.
No Real Rules On Public Photography
After some research I learned that there are no real rules, but you should use your best judgment when taking pictures in public places.
- If you are at a public event like a farmers market these people should expect to be photographed as background because you are in a common area.
- Performers are pretty fair game, but it is always nice to leave a small tip.
- If you want to take a photo of a stranger you can try to snap and run, but this can make some people angry. It helps to talk to the person and let them know what you are doing and ask their permission.
- It helps to have business cards or even some sample photos to share with your potential “subject”.
- Smile! Be nice and friendly. You want to connect with the person.
- Offer to send them a copy of your photo.
So remember to use your best judgment and feel the person out before snapping pictures.
Elissa (aka Punk Rock Mom) is a blogger, wife, mother, knitter, photographer, a Scorpio and all around cool person. You can follow the adventures of Punk Rock Dad, Punk Rock Mom and The Phi at Punk Rock Parents
FILED UNDER: Photography | TAGGED WITH guidelines, how-to, interaction, photographers, Photography, photos, public, public photos, rules
ABOUT Elissa Lerma aka Punk Rock Mom
In my former life I was an activist and punk rock kid. In this life I am a HR Director, wife, mom, p{read more}
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Lots of photographers will focus on the legalities– you can take a picture of a person or personal property if you are on public property– but don’t talk too much about the rules like you have. Thank you. Just because someone legally can take pictures of my daughter at the beach, doesn’t mean I want them to.
Asking permission is always important and I mentioned this in the article. And if someone does not give permission then you thank them anyways and walk away. Photography in public places is important to all photographers because many of us finding ourselves shooting there so I feel it’s relevant to give some tips. The bottom line I was trying to convey is to be curteous, respect others wishes.