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DPChallenge Forums >> General Discussion >> Cameras in Airports
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Showing posts 1 - 15 of 15, (reverse)
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12/08/2005 11:35:57 PM · #1
I don't travel much and I was wondering if anyone could tell me how cameras/photographers are regarded in airports. I have a potentially great idea for a photograph and I will be flying to New York during the holiday season so I have an opportunity to make it happen, but I don't want to get tazered or shot or anything.
12/08/2005 11:55:57 PM · #2
the last time I took a photo inside an airport was a few years ago when I was in St. Louis. I was past security and shooting out the window at an F-15 that got its nose gear stuck in the mud.

I just dont want to risk being marked as a suspect while traveling so my camera never comes out of the bag in the airport anymore.

I would sugest not shooting near the security area. a few airports i have been to have signs saying no photography

James

Message edited by author 2005-12-08 23:57:26.
12/09/2005 12:05:26 AM · #3
Since you have some time, call or write airport management and ask what their policy is. If a permit is required, they'll have time to get you one.

In general though, if you're in a publically-owned facility and it's not posted otherwise, you should be able to use your camera the same as on the street.

I also suggest you print out a copy of Bert Krages' summary of your rights as a photographer -- he's an attorney specializing in IP law
12/09/2005 12:25:07 AM · #4
I have recently been taking photo's at airports and nobody has bothered me about it. There are parts of the airport, like customs, that have signs "NO PHOTO'S." Other then that I believe it is O.K.
12/09/2005 01:01:42 AM · #5
I've never had a problem taking photographs in airports, including photographing the planes through the windows.

It is illegal to take photographs in or of the security screening area.

Do not expect to be able to set up a tripod/monopod/etc but rotine photos should be fine.

~Terry
12/09/2005 03:00:07 AM · #6
I just about got tackled for taking a shot at the airport in Tirane, Albania back in 2000. They let me keep my film but strongly warned me not to take any more. Then all the other passengers gave me dirty looks like I should have known better. I guess it depends on where you are at. Best to just ask first.

Message edited by author 2005-12-09 03:00:25.
12/09/2005 08:05:27 AM · #7
I would suggest that if you try it, do it in your home airport and not NY when you get there. They will probably have the highest security. I have heard that people have gotten in trouble for taking photos of planes taking off and landing though.

I would love to take photos myself, but am worried about it too.
12/09/2005 08:10:03 AM · #8
The best idea is just ask someone there if its ok. Im assuming since your going to NY you're bringing your camera anyway, when you are at the airport just ask some of the airline employees or security and see what they say
12/09/2005 08:22:59 AM · #9
only had one problem in hong kong I was near security and on of the check points where u walk though the metal detectors and security guards there did not like that NO PICTURES!! bam i drop my camera trying to put it away.

Other than that no problems at all I took pictures everywhere else.
12/09/2005 08:34:13 AM · #10


Brussels Airport ealier this year.
I did take it with a pointy shooty Canon S50 and not the full dSLR though ;-)
12/09/2005 09:17:43 AM · #11
I've been taking photos in airports quite a bit in the last year, and haven't been hassled about it yet. I think the important things are to respect the no-photos zones (ie security & customs, where's its usually forbidden by law), and to be discreet otherwise - if you're acting like a tourist, no-one will care, but whipping out a long white lens and a tripod is bound to draw attention :o)
12/09/2005 01:16:42 PM · #12
Thanks for all the responses and advice. I was planning on taking some shots at the Cincinnati airport while killing time before boarding the flight. I figured NY would be crowded, much more paranoid (with good reason), and I wouldn't want to be hanging around in an airport (this being my first trip to NY).

I'll let you all know how my masterpiece turns out!
12/09/2005 01:58:36 PM · #13
My only comments are to consider that once you display your camera to take a picture, you have just identified an item that may be a temptation for thieves, thus more security of your gear is required. I intentionally carry my camera gear (several thousands of dollars) in a non descript "Cabella's" bag or a luggage looking Delsey Pro shoulder bag. Neither screem "Photo Gear" and thus I feel less targeted (although I'm still cautious about maintaining vigilence on it). Pulling it out to shoot photos, would seem to defeat the purpose of the intentional non-descript gear bags.
12/09/2005 10:47:17 PM · #14
Originally posted by Flash:

My only comments are to consider that once you display your camera to take a picture, you have just identified an item that may be a temptation for thieves, thus more security of your gear is required. I intentionally carry my camera gear (several thousands of dollars) in a non descript "Cabella's" bag or a luggage looking Delsey Pro shoulder bag. Neither screem "Photo Gear" and thus I feel less targeted (although I'm still cautious about maintaining vigilence on it). Pulling it out to shoot photos, would seem to defeat the purpose of the intentional non-descript gear bags.


Yeah, but you can't take your camera to any public place w/o the chance of showing it to thieves. At least in an airport you have security nearby. Plus you know they wont have any weapons.

Message edited by author 2005-12-09 22:52:08.
12/10/2005 12:10:18 AM · #15
Originally posted by Flash:

My only comments are to consider that once you display your camera to take a picture, you have just identified an item that may be a temptation for thieves, thus more security of your gear is required. I intentionally carry my camera gear (several thousands of dollars) in a non descript "Cabella's" bag or a luggage looking Delsey Pro shoulder bag. Neither screem "Photo Gear" and thus I feel less targeted (although I'm still cautious about maintaining vigilence on it). Pulling it out to shoot photos, would seem to defeat the purpose of the intentional non-descript gear bags.


I welcome a confrontation from time to time. Gets my adrenaline going. Assailant's head collides with brick 1 series Canon, which one breaks? Do the math.
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