Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2005/04/20
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]In 1929, very soon after Leica was born, Leica began producing right-angle finders so that photographers could look elsewhere but point their lens at the subject. Production of improved versions of this device continued for 10 years and are still being used today. In fact, I have one but have used it only once or twice, a very long time ago. As far as I'm concerned, the Golden Rule should apply in taking pictures...do unto others as you would have others do unto you. I agree with Karen Nakamura: very high ethical standards should prevail. Remember, Jackie Kennedy? She took a photographer to court for pestering her and taking her picture and her childrens' picture and, of course, she won. Body guards of famous people have regularly broken photographers' cameras and, on occasion, have roughed up cameramen. I'm sure there are many, many other examples. These people have less protection because they are considered public figures. Normal people, however, are entitled to consideration unless they are involved in public events, like a parade, a demonstration, a political rally or some such event. How would you like your photograph being taken while picking your nose, scratching your behind or touching your crotch? Of course, if you stick out your tongue, you might be fair game --it the photographer is quick. If, before snapping, you ask yourself how you would feel if you were the subject of the photograph, you might think twice before taking the picture you have in your sights. The fact that Eugene Smith, HCB or Weegee did whatever they did a very long time ago is --today -- irrelevant. The fact that your picture , after getting permission, might looked posed is irrelevant. The fact that you might not get the picture you want is irrelevant. The fact that some people expect to be paid is irrelevant. What is relevant is that times have changed and photographers --along with everyone else -- have to change with the times. All of this seems to be so obvious that it seems to me to be almost self-evident...bob cole