Unsuspecting models

[pjiffy]

I'm fairly new to photography and although initially I thought landscapes would be my favourite subject, I'm now finding myself becoming fascinated by portrait shots. I realise it would be at least rude to take a shot of someone without their permission, however, let's say I was taking some random street scenes, and on processing on my computer, I found that by cropping down, I had accidentally captured some random person and it actually made a decent portrait, and I wanted to put it on my website (which I haven't got yet but will soon). What is the legal position on this? I'm in the UK by the way.

[doctorjames]

Originally Posted by pjiffy

What is the legal position on this? I'm in the UK by the way.

The lack of replies to this thread highlights the problem with giving an answer. Its just not that straightforward.

You can take a picture of anyone in the UK, with or without their permission if they are in a public place. If you ask for permission, and this is denied then you are in breach of that persons right to privacy, unless taking the image is deemed to be a matter of public interest. If you dont ask however the problem doesnt arrive with taking the image.

How you choose to use the image is the sticking point, and there will be a lot of debate as to whether you need a model release. Almost always when shooting in a public place you do not need one when it comes to publishing. You will find however that many publishers will not touch your image without said agreement. As for your own website it depends where it is being hosted, as it is this territory that the law will apply in.

Ambiguous answer im afraid, for a very difficult question

[Woody]

You might try doing a search of DPS for past responses to this question. It comes up every few months or more and is realy done to death.

Happy photos.


Cheers,

John W