Re: Permits for tripods

[Bob Atherton <gdm12@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Jim Dunn wrote:

> > I would just like to add to Ron Klein's excellent advice that in these
> > potentially awkward situations, do as much theory on the shot as
> > possible.  As
> > most of these views are exterior, requiring no supplementary
> > lighting, sort out
> > where to site the camera, which lens to use ( for this I quickly
> > produce a Nikon
> > with a zoom lens ) take a meter reading ( again surreptitiously )
> > and wait for
> > your moment to produce all the gear and go for it.
> >
> > As most of my work is on 4" x 5" I would normally shoot a Polaroid first,
> > forget that , just get a few sheets 'in the bank' and then think about the
> > Polaroid.  If I do get hassled I  am always very pleasant, very
> > ignorant, and
> > claim to be a mature student!   Bob Atherton
> >
>
> It has always been a worry to me that I have to fabricate a storey in
> situations like this...as I "have" done. I have worked in photography for 17
> years and I have never been comfortable with fabricating stories to get a
> picture, news or stock.
>
> I am not speaking from the high ground only making an observation.
>
> Best wishes
>
> ............................................................
> Jimmy Dunn
> Scottish Stock Photography
> E-mail:  jimmyd@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
> ............................................................

Dear Jimmy,  I know exactly where you are coming from,  I also don't feel too
good about having to tell the odd white lie.  In the perfect world I would get
the correct permits, liaise with the relevant personnel etc.

I do find it difficult with deadline pressures from clients, directors and worst
of all, rapidly changing weather (it's OK for these west coast Americans, but us
Brits have a tough time of it!) to have the time to sort out the necessary
authority.

It's just that most of these type of views are not the main shots for me.  I
remember doing an ad campaign for British Gas a couple of years ago.  All the
key shots were in the bag with total co-operation from everyone concerned, and
then the art director thought it would be good idea to include a night time view
of the London skyline,  just a little 'throw away' thing.......... well I think
I had more grief over that one than any other shot in my career!        Best
wishes,      Bob