26 Jan
2010
The subject of a photographer's legal rights regarding the use of cameras and camcorders in public places was discussed in this blog a few years ago.
It seems that the rules concerning, "suspicious behavior", have been more broadly interpreted and enhanced. The inclusion of, "excessive photography", as an offense, which when witnessed, should be "reported", is particularly disturbing.
This is the case in Chicago, and it makes me wonder just what constitutes "excessive photography", particularly digital photography .
Digital cameras allow you to take as many pictures as you want, at no cost, until they're printed, so we happily snap away. Is that "excessive photography?"
How many minutes, or hours, of video is "excessive?"
If someone is using a film camera how many rolls of film can be exposed before someone calls the cops to investigate a case of "excessive photography" in progress?
I could go on forever about this, but I'll simply say that everyone should be aware of local ordinances, and other laws that regulate photography.
Here's the actual Chicago warning poster, and this link will take you to further discussion of photographer's rights by an attorney.
Take a camera with you whenever possible, and look around, you'll find a picture somewhere.
Photo Source:www.sierraclub.org
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