subject: Right To Click - Make Sure You Get It Right [print this page] What are the laws with respect to shooting in a public place? Does anyone have the right to question my intentions and check my photographs? How does photographing something visible to everyone become a crime?
Eliminating all the legal jargon, I hope to answer all the queries and give a general understanding of these laws. Generally, if you are in a public place such as parks, roads, beaches, markets etc. you can photograph anything which is in public view. However, if there is a reasonable standard of privacy expected, you are not allowed to disturb the privacy by clicking them. The perfect example is that of a public toilet; just because it is public does not give you the right to peep into it with your photographic eye. In such cases you can be legally prosecuted for invading their privacy. Also make sure you dont obstruct the movement of the general public with your enormous kit of equipments and tripods. In such cases legal action can be taken against you. Now in private places the case is different. You have to get the permission of the owner of the property to click pictures of such places. In case you dont take the permission of the concerned authorities, they have every right to ask you to stop and leave the premises.
If there are areas were photography is clearly prohibited or buildings or areas which are very sensitive or related to national security it is better to keep your cameras off. Those security officials have every right to seize the equipment, question you or even detain you. In case you are questioned by someone, you are not legally bound to explain your motives or reveal your identity. You can easily walk away without uttering a word. If a private party tries to seize your camera or grab your equipment, you can take legal action against them. The final word is to judge the situation well and handle it in a subtle way. By being patient, polite and friendly to the people you can easily get your best shots with ease. "You can learn more about photography at his site www.creativehut.org. At the time you can also check out the film making courses and photography courses on offer."
