Newbie here, what's the proper photographing etiquette in public?

[Orionpkmyz]

Hello all,

I recently became interested in photography and am starting to take more pictures. I got my first DSLR but I feel more concious with it vs. the tiny point and shoot. There were instances where I felt uncomfortable taking out the DSLR in public places since it's so large and conspicuous. I once took a nice collection of people just hanging out and having a good time in a park with the P & S but I'm sure that they wouldn't want some stranger taking their pictures with a telephoto lens!

My question is, what do *you* usually do when you want to take pictures of your food in a restaurant, or a nice display in a store? Do you normally ask first for permission or just snap away? Would it help to add that the photos are for non-commercial purposes?

Thanks and happy clicking!

I usually shoot them...


... RIGHT IN THE FACE!! MUUAHAHAH!! BLAMMO!!

[Jim Bryant]

Shoot first, ask questions later..............

[RllyDrvrIX]

Originally Posted by Jim Bryant

Shoot first, ask questions later..............

Run fast and avoid questions....

[Jim Bryant]

Originally Posted by RllyDrvrIX

Run fast and avoid questions....

That's why I have the fast long lenses. But then again, as Robert Capa said, "If our pictures aren't good enough, you're not close enough."

[Orionpkmyz]

Well, at least I know that photographers in this forum have a good sense of humor

[Jim Bryant]

Originally Posted by Orionpkmyz

Well, at least I know that photographers in this forum have a good sense of humor

that's one thing you'll learn here............we have a sense of humor.

[Rehesan]

It take my attention how paranoic is the people nowadays, talking about people being photographed. I understand the fact regarding taking pictures of people in public places can be unconfortable for some persons, but with all the paranoia feeded by the media this days, it is not just uncomfortable, but risky business.

Because of that, I really try to avoid to take photos to people in parks or beaches, even you can get some nice candid photographs. I rather to make photos of my family, landscapes or other subjects that could result interesting for me.

Regarding stores, displays, etc., like the other DSPers said: just shot. I try to have my DSLR to all places where I go, you never know what you could see, and for me that is the escence of the photography: to capture unique moments, so, how can you get that unique and particular moment when you need to ask permissions first?, he he.

Don´t be afraid or shy, pull out you camera and shot!.

[Raoul Isidro]

For people, it's about how they perceive their privacy. Some will throw a tantrum knowing they have been snapped while others will be tickled pink by the photo op. There is a risk involved. Use discretion.
For food and objects, it's about it's "owner's" perception of the use of the photograph. Extremes from "industrial espionage" to just tourist snap fun. Open season.
Have fun and take care!

[skoggiel]

Originally Posted by maxharvard

I usually shoot them...


... RIGHT IN THE FACE!! MUUAHAHAH!! BLAMMO!!

this actually made me laugh out loud! i almost spit out my wine but that would be alcohol abuse!