The "No Photography" People Strike Again

lightdrunk

I was in an antique store in Virginia and decided that the displays were extraordinary and deserved to be photographed. I managed to get several shots before the manager told me to stop taking pictures. What's the deal? I've tried a number of theories and still can't come up with a real reason one should not photograph antiques? Anybody got any ideas?

Photog4Christ

lightdrunk wrote:

I was in an antique store in Virginia and decided that the displays were extraordinary and deserved to be photographed. I managed to get several shots before the manager told me to stop taking pictures. What's the deal? I've tried a number of theories and still can't come up with a real reason one should not photograph antiques? Anybody got any ideas?

Okay, here's my theory.... The store is private property and the manager told you to stop.

Cygnus Studios

Maybe it's just me, but walking into someone's place (business or otherwise) and just start snapping pictures seems a bit rude. The owner doesn't know you from a hole in the ground.

Did you think to ask permission prior to whipping out your camera and shooting away?
Did you think to offer the owner something in return for the images? Maybe a free print? Some web images for their use?

If you invited some people you didn't know into your home or business and they whipped out a camera would you say something?

aj986s

.....additionally, some places/stores with arts/antiques/etc. are fearful of counterfeiting rings.

Asking permission within a private establishment is definitely best. But, AFAIK anything displayed out on the sidewalk/etc. is public.

theNOIZ

It's not an anti-photography conspiracy. Don't be rude, ask first. You'd be surprised how grateful people are if you ask for permission first.

Angelo

PHOTOG
CYGNUS
AJ
NOIZ



clapclap

Photog4Christ

theNOIZ wrote:

It's not an anti-photography conspiracy. Don't be rude, ask first. You'd be surprised how grateful people are if you ask for permission first.

This is what you get when you say "Do you mind if I take your photo?"

Cygnus Studios

One other thing that really helps is your business card or portfolio. I carry my book everywhere, and when I see a store or someone that really captures my attention, I will approach them, share with them what I am hoping to do, hand them a business card and show them my book if they are interested.
If they are not, I thank them for their time and leave the card with them for later use.
The key with businesses is knowing when they are busy and when they are not. An owner or manager is more likely to deal with you during the low times in the day.
If you have shot other businesses in the area, mention it to the owner. The only place that has not allowed me to shoot inside to date was the state house in Sacramento. I was told that if I wanted to wait for a tour or come back when not in session photography is allowed.