Taking Photos in Public - Please Read?

Question

I've posted this question under several different categories in hopes that someone may be able to enlighten me.

I have two small dogs and in my neighbourhood it's very common to have more than one. It's just that kind of place. Anyways, I am used to the amount of attention my boys get...the usual stuff: oh, they're so cute, what breed are they, are they brothers...that sort of stuff...here's where the problem comes in. Once a year our area hosts a music festival...3 nights of bands playing on the street. Over the last few years, attendees have taken lots of photos of my dogs as if we're part of the show! For the past 2 nights, the dogs have had their photo taken about 20 times! Why would you want a photo of dogs you'll never see again? Why wouldn't you ask whether it was ok? So far the only people who ask are those that wanting to take their photo while holding them. Dognapping is a problem around here. Am I being paranoid or is this situation wierd? Any ideas what's up?

Thank you all for your responses, just to let you know that 99% of these folks never even make eye contact let alone speak to me. I've even had them take 'our' picture while I was eating on the sidewalk...and my boys were sitting beside me.

The folks that approach and actually talk to me are not the ones I'm curious about. I realize that I'm in a public space and that anyone is fair game especially if people want crowd shots.

As I said before dognapping is an issue in our neighbourhood but I truly don't believe someone will run off with one or both of them right under my nose.

And no, my dogs are not a rare breed. They're just little Shih Tzus..so that rules out that theory. Yes they're cute but I'm their 'mom' so I'm pretty much obligated to think so ;0)

I have noticed that the majority of the photographers tend to be Asian....and I think that's what really made me curious. Do you think it's more of a culture thing?

Thanks for all your great answers (even those stating that I was being paranoid!). I did approach several 'photographers' tonight and their answers ran the gamut...Most of you were right, they just thought my boys were cute but didn't realize that a) they weren't the first to take their pics this weekend let alone tonight and b) it might be nice to at least acknowledge that there was somebody holding the leash!

Thanks again and I hope everyone enjoys their weekend.

Answer 1

I think outsiders coming in see them as part of the "local color". While photographing you or your dogs without your permission is bad manners, you are fair game when in a public space. Think of all those people with mohawks that are practically chased down the street by tourists in London and other places. If it really bothers you, don't take them out in the area of the festival on those nights.

Answer 2

Well, you just answered your own question!!! If your aware of the dognapping in your area then why are you letting people you dont know take pics of your dog? Sounds like dognappers take pics of other peoples dogs and use the pics to sell the dog. Dont let your dog out alone or leave outside at night. Someone might be planning to steal your dog real soon if your not careful.

Answer 3

I think it's a great compliment. You're dogs must be adorable, and cute animals make people happy. Take a look at dailypuppy.com. I bet you won't be able to help but smile when you see some of the cute puppies.

Have you considered entering them in a cute dog contest? There's one online with a $10,000 grand prize!

If someone wants to steal you're dog, it would be awfully brazen for them to let you see them. Most dog nappers probably don't want the owners to be able to identify them. I think they're safe from the photogs.

Answer 4

I'd be flattered. Take it as compliment.

Why would you want a photo of dogs you'll never see again? because, they'll never see them again. If they'd see them all of the time, they wouldn't need a photograph.

If the dogs are in public view (In the U.S.A.), well that public domain for the paparazzi. They don't need to ask.

If you have an annual festival for 3 days, sell postcards of the dogs. Heck, sell t-Shirts, sell food. Charge for parking. Sell Ice-Tea. Setup a lemonade stand. Make some money.

Answer 5

You are not paranoid. Not in the least. A friend has a papillon and everybody stops to ask the same questions. Just keep your dogs on their leash and be aware of everybody who comes up to see them. Most people are sincere about this (especially if they are dog owners), but there are kooks everywhere, and smaller dogs are easy to dog-nap. The polite thing would be to ask if you mind if their photos are taken but of course, people ignore this courtesy.

Good luck, and enjoy your pooches!

Answer 6

Some people comment on the pets and take pictures in hopes of getting an opportunity to hit on the owner. That is one likely possibility.

Another is that your dogs are truly unique and wonderful and people cannot help themselves. (unlikely)

Another is people like to take pictures of all kinds of things, and your dogs just happen to be part of all kinds of things.

I do not believe that people take pictures of dogs at festivals as a means to find pets to petnap. If you are really concerned about this, you probably should leave them at home.

Answer 7

With the advent of digital cameras, people are shutter happy.
they will take anything and everything.
post a sign on your lawn Beware Dogs- No Photos Allowed!
that might get a reaction and word might spread. Of course, it might just get you on T.V. where the story would go out on the wire and the web and then all over the world people would see your wonderful lads.

You could check with the local police to see if they have any ideas.

Answer 8

Yeah, that is a weird situation. In California, if you are in a public situation, you are pretty much fair game for having your picture taken.

On the etiquette side of things, if your dogs were dressed up or doing some sort of "street performace" tricks I wouldn't be surpised if people were taking pictures. Heck, if you had very talented frisbee dogs, I might be tempted to take pictures. But in general, it is pretty rude.

Answer 9

honey, your not paranoid. i would be the same way with my dogs (i have 4), OR even my children.
just like babies...cute little dogs attract attention. i don't think people know that it bothers you. to them..they just see the CUTEST puppies in the world..and when you see them..you want to touch them, talk to them, hold them ,love on them...even take a picture of them.
if it bothers you that much...or worries you..leave you pups at home..INSIDE!
i get the same thing when i take my two smaller dogs out with me. ppl want to touch them and at our summer fair..they want to take a pic or something. i just politely say..i really would appreciate if if you wouldn't do that...it makes me uncomfortable.
of course you will get some ppl that are rude about it, but most will say "oh I'm sorry!" and they will leave you be.

sometimes to avoid this..i bring one of my larger dogs with me..or all four. i have an 80lb Catahoula (think Blue Heeler meets Rottweiler), ppl tend to stay away from me when i have him around. GREAT deterrent!

just remember that humans ARE a curious bunch, and we tend to stick our noses where they don't belong.

Answer 10

In the USA, you can take a photo of anyone or anything you want if it is in a public place. You don't need anyone's permission whether they like it or not. If you don't want people taking pics of your dogs, then leave them at home.