Pixiq

I am an amateur, not a professional. Unfortunately, sometimes it is the equipment you use verses your intent that can get you in trouble. I use a Nikon D200 and an SB800. Example. Last May in Berlin, a peaceful demonstration was being setup on the sidewalk in front of the Kurfürstendamm Cathedral. The group was protesting the situation in Sri Lanka and the abuse of the Tamal people. As a tourist in the city (attending a business conference) I started to photograph the event. I stood about one car length away from the police van. All the police, both uniformed or plain clothes saw me talking the pictures. The organizer of the event approached me and asked me if I was from the media. Of course I was not. I stayed there for more than an hour, trying to capture the emotions and event. Once the light had faded, I took out my flash. Should never have done that. One of the plain clothes guys pulled me aside, flashed a German "secret service" badge and asked me why I was taking so many photos. I explained that I was an amateur with no intentions to sell anything to the media. He told me the group was getting nervous because I might have detailed photos of faces of the protesters and that I should stop taking any more pictures. Not one for confrontation, especially since I am an American visiting their country I immediately turned the camera off, removed the flash and told the plain clothes guy I would leave the area.

In the US, I was threatened with arrest, destruction of my camera etc. at an fatal accident scene near my home. It was late night and I walked the half-mile to the scene past the fire police etc. Approaching the scene and behind the yellow fire scene tape standing on the public sidewalk, I started taking picture with my D200 and SB800. All I could see was a damaged vehicle and emergency vehicles. A very angry emergency uniformed person started yelling at me to stop taking pictures. I told him I was behind the line and within my rights. He threatened to have me arrested and take my camera. I told him he could not do that at which he came right to my face and started yelling. I couldn't resist popping the flash. Again not looking to spend the night in the police station, I turned without another word and walked away, the whole time taking more pictures as I walked down the road.

I now carry with me a copy of the photographers rights in the US (courtesy of http://www.krages.com/phoright.htm) and the UK info as well. Going to London in a month, always take my camera ...let's see if I can keep from getting challenged.

It's unfortunate that we hear so many of these types of stories where photographers are getting harassed in various situations.

It's important that, as photographers, we know our rights as journalists, photo journalists, artists, or even as tourists in whatever country we are in.

I agree with you that the equipment you're carrying can contribute to how the "authorities" will perceive you.

photography is an art and i don't think that it should be harassed. i also want best images for my website http://www.like2bid.com and thanks to the photographers who r capturing the best images. coz images r the only things which speaks when communication is dumb.

no teror - no warm