On Jun 27, 2005, at 9:36 AM, Joaquim Carvalho wrote:
How acceptable is it to take pictures of people without asking for permission?
Legally, in the USA, it's perfectly all right to photograph people in public places, at public events, etc. I won't delve on "legal" issues as I'm not a lawyer.
Ethically, morally, intra-personally ... It varies. In a sense it depends on how well you and the people you're photographing get on together. Invade someone's privacy, whether legal or not, and be ready to deal with their emotional reaction. What you intend to do with the photographs, and why, make a difference.
I photograph people all the time. Sometimes with their knowledge, sometimes without. Usually from fairly close up, where it is obvious that I have a camera pointed in their direction. I find most of my favorite photos have a connection between me and the person being photographed, however brief or trivial, that makes a difference.
Godfrey
