In spite of assorted agreements with the police, officers continue to be obstructive to photogaphy in the street. Although the trend of photographers getting hassle go’s up and down over time, It has always been thus!
The object of this page is to strengthen your knowledge regarding issues surrounding photography, both in ‘actions’ and subjects in a public place. In situations whether your photographing an action / demonstration, or people and buildings in the High Street …. it has become quite problematic and increasingly so. I think 4 main issues have a bearing here.
Policeman and assorted officers don’t want to be photographed, it might show some wrong-doing.
People involved in direct action, a photograph might be evidence against an individual breaking the law.
The notion that some believe people have a right of privacy in a public place.
The threat of terrorism and a photographer might be conducting ‘hostile reconissence’.
So, I think to start with, and since we are dealing with those interested in the sort of subjects Indymedia visitors might be interested to know about ….. I should say the first consideration is:
IS IT LIKELY THAT A PICTURE I TAKE, WILL PROVIDE EVIDENCE TO PROSECUTE ANYONE?
I struggle with this all the time and it is central in my mind when photographing activities. It might be argued that it is safer just to take pictures on your holiday and leave a camera at home otherwise. I don’t agree.
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