Your rights as a photographer

Browncoat

Senior Member
For a very recent example, check out this article.

In the U.S., it is perfectly legal for you to take photographs in public situations. I have seen this debate rage on over discussion forums, but the fact remains:

Last year, New York City police sought to clarify the rules on photography with a directive to all officers. It said that photography is "rarely unlawful" and that officers have no right to demand to see photos or to delete them.

This is true anywhere in the U.S. and is not unique to NYC or Washington D.C. There are of course certain restrictions, mostly specific to private property. You obviously don't have a right to walk onto someone else's property and start snapping photos, so a certain amount of common sense is involved.

Has anyone been involved in a confrontation with the police over taking photos? How about a private citizen?
 

Snap Happy

Senior Member
Similar to here in Australia. Public places, you are allowed to take photos. Nobody in a public place has.... "personal rights" and can not stop you from taking photos. Private property is another matter. Government land is also another matter.

I have had a few hassles with Security Guards in my time. I keep a copy of Australian Law as it relates to taking photos, I keep it in my bag. If I get hassled by Security, I give it to them to read. I have only had to do this once. If you are polite and patient, I think they respect that. But it is damned annoying to be told you can or can't do this or that by a "Rent A Cop!"
 
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