Hi All,

I am trying to figure out if there are any specific guidelines about photography in places of public transportation. Basically, I am trying to set up a brief shoot involving one model (oh, 20-30min), handheld camera w/flash in an outdoor subway station in the DC area and/or airport.

Can I do it or are there special permits etc that are probably required? Has anybody done a similar project and care to share your experience? I did some internet searching but haven't come up with any specifics.

Thanks for input!

Read this:

http://www.wmata.com/about_metro/docs/UseRegulations.pdf

Thanks! I actually did read it before posting. It says you are basically okay as long as there is no equipment other than your camera (on-camera flash) invovled... BUT, what confused me is that they also mention "models". Well, I won't have any equiment, but I will have a model !

In any case,I just called wmata's media relations office and asked. The lady on the phone said I'm allowed to photograph as long as I don't have tripods, lights setup, etc. I did mention that I'll have "one model" for the shoot, and she didn't say I needed a permit or anything. Hmmm! Of course, what's going to stop metro security and officials on the day of the shoot from kicking us out? Guess I'll have to go out and try, and see what happens

I shot a model once in Milan in the subway there and the Italian security people had me leave.  I don't know the laws over there since I'm from the U.S., but when personnel asks you stop its not worth arguing with them unless you know your rights.  So, I would go ahead and do it, but if they tell you to stop, I would just move on, not worth the hassle.

Of course, what's going to stop metro security and officials on the day of the shoot from kicking us out?

Print out the documentation with the appropriate section highlighted and bring it with you.

BTW, are you planning on shooting on an indoors platform or outdoors platform?

Definitely, outdoors. Luckily, there are a couple of great outdoors stations perfect for shooting!

Now, of course gotta explain to the model I'll get for this shoot that we might get chased away )