In the UK what restrictions are there on taking photos in a public place?

Question

I take photos of shops, buildings, statues ect. I try to avoid getting people in the shot but somtimes it can not be avoided. People are later removed on the computer in case anyone trys to bring a case under the data protection act. I am taking the photos as a hobby not comershal use. I need to know the law as I have often been threatened by the public and shopkeepers

Answer 1

IMHO You have asked a very sensible question. In an age of 'human rights' the proscriptive direction of the law towards protecting every single possession right down to the button on your shirt means that we are infact creating a much less liberal society in many respects.

A case in point. I was taking some casual photos of a building which caught my eye because of the colour and texture surrounding an area of dereliction. AS I started shooting someone came running out of the office waving his hands, 'no, no, no' he exclaimed, 'you're not allowed. This is my building'.

I started to argue with him and told him I live in a free country and can take photos of whatever I like. He became threatening and said I had no right to be standing on his driveway and told me in not uncertain terms to go away.

I thought it best to move on. Life is too short to waste time with people like that. But afterwards I thought maybe he did have a point. What if I slipped and fell on his premises, even though I was perhaps a yard in off the street? Could he be liable under the public liability act to deal with a claim for a dislocated hip?

I've read on the internet about corporations suing photographers for using clips from videos that show parts of their premises and presumably showing their logo or name in a wrong context.

I think you are quite wise to be aware of the mad times in which we find ourselves, where everyone seems to be treading on eggshells when it comes to 'rights'.

Personally, I think the legal system has lost its way slightly and has gone off down a 'human rights' cul de sac off the main road. A subtle diversion from one of the main functions of the judiciary, which is to provide a system of public protection against political abuse of power. INstead we are busy suing each other instead of the government.

Answer 2

Techically it's against the Human Rights Act (Right to privacy), but not a lot of people probably know that. Otherwise you can take pics of anything you like "in a public place", however, it might be better, if you speak to the shop/building/land owner first just so they know what you're up to and don't call the Police thinking you're casing the joint, or using it for plans to blow them up. Most people won't mind being caught in the background of a picture, but many, understandably won't want you taking pictures of them as the main feature. If they get in your way whilst you're taking the picture, that's not your fault is it!?

Answer 3

You can take photos in a public place, even if there are people in them. Although if you were hanging around taking photos near a playpark or photos of women you'd prob get in abit of trouble! (Quite rightly too!)
If a person thought you had taken a photo that includes them, they can request that it is not used/ deleted but I dont know if they have any legal rights as far as thats concerned.
The only place you cant take photos including people without their permission is in a private place.

Answer 4

As far as i know you are allowed to take pictures anywhere as long as ot is not a restricted area or alternatively you have been advised not to by a figure of authority or some form of sign stating that you are not allowed to do so. as a part time photographer this is my experience. Good luck and Happy Clicking!!!!!!!

Answer 5

I am pretty sure you okay on this one as long as you are not publishing these photots with anyones picture in it as you state you aren't. The only thing i would be wary about is schools and nurserys etc. You could be asking for trouble there.

Answer 6

yes, you don't need to show up the pictures showing the people in the paper or other media, and also better to avoid some places that may anger the law enforcement, places there is stress of terror attack or prison yards

Answer 7

recently there was an article in our local paper involving a university student arrested under the prevention of terrorism law,for taking photos of a barely empty piece of road........

Answer 8

Shop keepers mind, because they think it is espionage. On their premises you should ask permission, even through the window. Other than that only military, police station out of bounds??

Answer 9

you can take a photo of ANYWHERE outside except obvious places like military camps etc. you can take photos of airports,train stations, etc. you can take photos inside shops, but best to ask first....try not to look like a terrorist and youll be fine...just be honest.

Answer 10

no restrictions at all. data protection act only applies to organisations and commercial entities that hold information that identifies individuals.