Photographers...Stand your Ground!!!

I love this experiment organised by the London Street Photography Festival 2011!

There are currently no laws in place that prevent professional and amateur photographers alike from taking photos whilst in a public place which means that security officers and police officers have no right to stop them from doing so.

In this video, 6 photographers are filmed taking photos in 6 different public areas in London and the repercussions that result from their actions - it makes VERY interesting viewing for anyone interested in street photography!

I think it's really intriguing how this experiment demonstrates just how much paranoia there is around people taking photos in public spaces with particular attention for any photographer with a professional looking SLR - they must be trouble!! I was in London on Friday waiting for the tube and despite thinking how amazing the geometry of the tunnels and escalators would look in a photo I did seriously think twice about getting my camera out worrying that people might get suspicious and assume I had some sort of sordid ulterior motive. But then I thought what the hell, although yes, technically I wasn't on public land per ser, I shouldn't have to stifle my creativity just because the media has scared everyone into thinking that anyone taking photos beyond the typical 'happy snap' shots of friends messing around is a suspected terrorist, with male photographers arguably having an even harder time with further accusations attributed to their picture taking.

I hope that watching this video encourages any practising or aspiring street photographer to keep shooting by clarifying their rights and providing some inspiration for comebacks should they ever be cornered by an ill informed, power tripping security guard!!