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02/10/2008 01:41:02 AM · #1 |
What type of lawyer does one seek out if they want counsel on taking pictures at a public event?
I need some answers and a goto if I continue having problems at a specific venue and with an "Event photographer".
I would like to find a local lawyer that has some prior level of knowledge. If I am wrong I want to know about it a.s.a.p. and if I am not incorrect I would want a letter sent to the event coordinator and the event photographer. In short, if right I will uphold for myself and if wrong I will know not to repeat the same mistake.
I am purposely leaving out the details because I have no need to debate the merits or ethics of what transpired. There are countless threads on that subject already. I just need some sound legal advice. Also this could potentially become another Bliss-like thread which I do not wish.
thanks in advance
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02/10/2008 01:44:18 AM · #2 |
| I assume you are already familiar with the Photographer's Rights flyer? If not, it's a good place to start. |
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02/10/2008 01:51:16 AM · #3 |
| Thanks Jason and yes I have read that many times. It may be worth the effort to call his number seeking a local referal. |
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02/10/2008 08:51:06 AM · #4 |
...
Message edited by author 2008-02-10 09:36:41. |
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02/10/2008 08:53:10 AM · #5 |
Define 'event'.
If some organization is holding an event they control who may shoot or not (nascar, NFL, etc are biggies in this field and are picky to say the least). The local T-ball or concert in the park falls under the same laws, but realistically no one controls the photography of the event.
Most events take place on private property, so the property owner has final say on who may be present and what they may do.
Were tickets sold, and if so, was there anything printed on the tickets regarding filming, etc? Does the organizer sanction an official photographer and if so, what is their take on your situation?
Call your local bar association and ask for a referral. You can usually get a half hour consult for $25-$50. Unless you live in a pretty big town the best you'll get is a general law lawyer (just like most towns lack fashion photographers or commercial photographers and movie studios). Most will be able to give you an opinion, but talk to 3 and you'll most likely get 3 slightly different opinions.
My experience: Here in PA it's accepted (by photographers anyway) that "deposit" is legally defined as always refundable, so you have to call it a 'retainer' instead of a non-refundable deposit. My lawyer at least disagrees with that. Is he wrong or is the generally accepted 'urban legend' true? He does if for a living, so I tend to trust him over what I've read on the net and heard 'round the cocktail table at PPA events.
Message edited by author 2008-02-10 08:53:51.
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02/10/2008 03:52:25 PM · #6 |
Thanks Chris, I like your idea of getting more than one opinion.
On the "define event"... doing that would open a pandora's box and with result with another lengthy thread. From what's already out there I know there are many varying opinions. In this case I think it would be worth paying the consultations fees and hearing it from a legal expert. |
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02/10/2008 04:01:04 PM · #7 |
Not a lawyer, nor do I know anything about US laws, but what I do if I want to photograph an event, race meeting or concert is to contact the organisers and ask about permission.
If they say no, I go elsewhere. If they say okay, I go ahead and offer them the pick of photos for that event. Drag Racing is one event that are always on the look out for good photos and they remember you if you act responsibly and they can see you aren't taking them for a ride.
Just my take on things:) |
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