In the past couple of weeks, not one but two DWF members have had run-ins with the law. One was approached by police and actually handcuffed and lead away for taking photos along a rail line. (She was able to convince the police that she wasn’t a terrorist before she was sent to jail.) Another, Phillip Blume, was nearly arrested and browbeat into deleting photos he took of a plane crash. (You can read his version of events here.)
There has been a growing trend of photographers running afoul of authorities, including this recent incident, caught on tape by Shawn Nee, an outspoken advocate for photographer’s rights. You can read about his incident, and watch the video here.
These are just the latest incidents on an ever-growing list. Even wedding photographers have run-ins with the law. So, what can a photographer do?
First, you can know your basic rights. Or, if you want to do a bit more in-depth research, you can check out the Photosecrets page on legal links.
However, as shown in the Nee video, even photographers who are well aware of their rights can be accosted by police who don’t know what rights photographers have. New York Photographers can print out a copy of an Operations Order issued by the NYPD. Photographers in other locations can print out copies of laws regarding photography in their city and state, too.
However, know that being belligerent and arrogant will often land you into more trouble than if you’re treat the officers with respect and dignity.
In Blume’s case, above, he deleted the images because it wasn’t worth the hassle. Others have decided to stand up and peacefully fight for their First Amendment Rights.
You can keep track of conflicts between the law and photographers by reading Carlos Millar’s Photography is Not a Crime Blog.
Back Home
3 Comments at "Photography is not a crime"
I’ll try to only shoot railway lines when the bride asks. The only time I was confronted by the police, it was the CN police. He was ready to apply a hefty fine, but fortunately he was friends with the bride, so a warning was the only thing issued!
I’d think if a police officer is of the mind set, no pulling out a paper you printed stating your rights is going to help.
But learning how to palm a CF card and a little sleight of hand to switch cards around goes a long, long way, keeps the peace and it’s very entertaining at parties too.
That reminds me of the story about the time that someone tried to mug David Copperfield. “Nope, sorry, I didn’t bring my wallet along with me. See, nothing in this pocket, nothing in here…”
Comment Now!