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This subject hits close to home for
me.
When I moved to Sacramento five years ago I read
the horrifying story of a Sacramento Bee photog who, when taking photos of some
children in a park, was beaten literally senseless by relatives of the children.
He can no longer work and had to relearn to walk and talk.
The story scared the hell out of me. I have for
five years avoided photographing people on the street, with few exceptions,
since.
Last Sunday I went to a farmers market and was
testing the water with regards to my photographing people, a snap here or there
with a smile and nod from the subjects without any objection until a woman
approached me. She asked who I was and why I was taking photos. I explained
that I did this as a hobby. She was aggressive and self-righteous asking if I
had asked the permission of the people that I had just photographed. I explained
that I did not need to ask permission, and if they were to object in any way I
would stop.
I turned and left, infuriated. The woman went to
the people that I had photographed, to tattle on me I assume.
I've been all over the map emotionally since. I'm
angry that anyone with a professional looking camera that doesn't wear a press
badge is assumed to be violating the rights of people in public places. I also
find myself sharing her concern with the safety and well being of children, I
have a son who is nine that I don't let out of my sight, for probably the same
fears that this woman was feeling.
I don't want to scare people when I'm taking
candids, but I also don't want to spoil great creative moments by stopping to
ask for permission.
The human aspect of photography is the most
fascinating aspect to me. Everywhere I go I see photos...great photos in
the faces of the people I see. I actually thought about just quitting if I
couldn't find a way to photograph people in their environment, unposed and
naturally.
Has anyone else felt this way or dealt with this
issue?
Scot
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