Shel, > If the photographer feels that some sort of > permission is needed before taking a > photo, then the use of long lenses would be unacceptable.
I think that is a very reasonable assessment. Basically, a "let your conscience be your guide" kinda thing. The only time I've really gotten conflicted about that is when photographing infants / children in a park or some other public place. With "the way of the world" these days, I always feel obligated to ask the parent for permission, ESPECIALLY if I'm using a long lens. Given the "Law and Order" society that we live in these days, long lens + children in viewfinder = maybe he's a pedafile... and so I occasionally get "the looks" :o( but by the time I inquire for the shot, the moment is usually way gone. So wudduya do? [answer: have your own kids, and stage your own shots <g>] Anyhow, your point is well taken. For every other circumstance, it's likely a no-brainer. Best regards, - Jerome