TWiP 454 – All Shiny & Chrome

Regarding the story about the photographer on the beach, I understand that issue fully. I regularly photograph art models on a local nude beach, which happens to be a part of the Nation Parks Service. Their rules don’t require a permit even if the model is paid as long as the session is non-commercial. I specifically work in a very simple way with a digital SLR, a few prime lenses, and seldom with on-camera flash for fill or a reflector. I also carry a backpack with towels and a small cooler with water and snacks. I am very careful to avoid photographing anyone other than my model and also try to go at times where the crowd is smaller. This beach tends to be self-policing with lifeguards on duty and Rangers passing by often. Neither has ever given me trouble. A few beachgoers have questioned what is going on and I indicate we’re a photoshoot for our own use. Once they see we are keeping away from them they leave us alone. I have had conversations with the Rangers who indicate I’m fine without a permit. One gave me the phone number to call if there is ever an issue. I suspect that the presence of the light would scream commercial to non-photographers and is something that should be avoided unless you have a proper permit. That said, the maintenance person, in this story, overstepped his authority.