Invading privacy

Stephenweiss

Hi, was recently in san francisco. down near the docks was a wonderful old hippy type bus and a very unusual couple sitting outside. I felt uncomfortable taking a picture without asking, and thought of no good way to approach them...and do I do it before or after I shoot the picture.


Any suggestions from people how they handle this?

Safari

Every situation is unique and requires judgment.
From your very brief description of this situation, I suggest "Hi, I love your bus, would you mind if I take a few pictures? May I include you in some of them? If I like the results, would you like me to show you by mail or email? Do you mind if I share them?"
Other situations call for candid shots. Specific circumstances might suggest that you apologize after, or thank the subject(s), or slink quickly/quietly away, or run like heck.

Stephenweiss wrote:

down near the docks was a wonderful old hippy type bus and a very unusual couple sitting outside.
Any suggestions from people how they handle this?

System

just offer them a toke and everything will be groovy-

george

System

on second thought, listen to safari-

george

Andy

Safari's advice is great.

There's a bit more here, too:
http://dgrin.smugmug.com/gallery/1077234

wxwax

Screw 'em. Take the shots you want. If they don't like it, tell them this is Ameica, land of the free, and what are they planning to do about it? Puff out your chest, make sure your face gets red. That'll shut 'em up.

Works like a charm for me.

Be sure to report back.

photocat

Depends also on what zoom you have on. I often find a 300 mm zoom unmissable for street shots, as you can stay further away from people and yet get a pretty good shot.
I would advise that if it makes you feel more comfortable, go and ask. The worst that can happen is that they say no.
I often show people my shots and promise them a copy (they have to email me though), and usually everyone is happy.

USAIR

wxwax wrote:

Screw 'em. Take the shots you want. If they don't like it, tell them this is Ameica, land of the free, and what are they planning to do about it? Puff out your chest, make sure your face gets red. That'll shut 'em up.

Works like a charm for me.

Be sure to report back.

:crazy

Fred

ScottG

Or do like I do and just catch people while they're napping. Spraying the area with a sleeping gas usually helps. :snore