Law In Action, broadcast on BBC Radio 4 on Tuesday 8 June 2010 at 4pm, was quite interesting for both amateur and professional photographers.
The issue of taking pictures in a public space - be that of people or buildings - is raised in terms of the Data Protection Act 1998 and Section 44 of the Terrorism Act 2000. Other issues such as the use of CCTV and surveillance imaging are also raised.
The first half of the programme has the most relevance to photographers and you can listen online here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00sm6ct
It's worth mentioning that photographers do not need permission to photograph buildings or people assuming the photograph is taken from a public space and no other laws are being violated e.g., deformation of character.
For some reason, there seems to be a fear of photographers with security staff, members of the public and (in some cases) PCSOs and police officers simply making up laws (whether they believe them or not) to prevent images being captured. This attitude needs to change. Taking photographs is important not just for holiday-makers taking snapshots or professionals earning a living. It is important in order to create a historical account of our world and society. These false beliefs threaten this form of recording to the detriment of future generations.
I implore everyone to listen to this 30 minute programme and to gain a proper understanding of the law.
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