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Microstock Photography Forum - General => General Photography Discussion => Topic started by: ChasingMoments on June 24, 2009, 13:52

Title: Photographic Models in Metro Stations/Airports - DC area
Post by: ChasingMoments on June 24, 2009, 13:52
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!
Title: Re: Photographic Models in Metro Stations/Airports - DC area
Post by: GeoPappas on June 24, 2009, 14:03
Read this:

http://www.wmata.com/about_metro/docs/UseRegulations.pdf (http://www.wmata.com/about_metro/docs/UseRegulations.pdf)
Title: Re: Photographic Models in Metro Stations/Airports - DC area
Post by: ChasingMoments on June 24, 2009, 14:15
Read this:

[url]http://www.wmata.com/about_metro/docs/UseRegulations.pdf[/url] ([url]http://www.wmata.com/about_metro/docs/UseRegulations.pdf[/url])


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 :)
Title: Re: Photographic Models in Metro Stations/Airports - DC area
Post by: etienjones on June 24, 2009, 14:25
Just be careful, it seems that the metro is having aging problems (and a few deaths). I will be visiting family come august and doing some shots so I hope there is no more accidents.

Architectually the Washington Subway is quite interesting but the lighting is very subdued.
Title: Re: Photographic Models in Metro Stations/Airports - DC area
Post by: surpasspro on June 24, 2009, 14:26
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.
Title: Re: Photographic Models in Metro Stations/Airports - DC area
Post by: zymmetricaldotcom on June 24, 2009, 14:28
RIP to folks in crash on Monday, apparently the 9/11 DC Air Force chief and his wife died in it, plus a mother of 6... :(   
Title: Re: Photographic Models in Metro Stations/Airports - DC area
Post by: GeoPappas on June 24, 2009, 14:30
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.
Title: Re: Photographic Models in Metro Stations/Airports - DC area
Post by: GeoPappas on June 24, 2009, 14:31
BTW, are you planning on shooting on an indoors platform or outdoors platform?
Title: Re: Photographic Models in Metro Stations/Airports - DC area
Post by: ChasingMoments on June 24, 2009, 14:42
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 :)))
Title: Re: Photographic Models in Metro Stations/Airports - DC area
Post by: GeoPappas on June 24, 2009, 14:53
I would recommend the following:

- Plan your shoot during non-rush hour timeframes.  Between 9:30 am and 11:00 am should be good, although you will probably get better natural lighting between 6:30 pm and 8:00 pm.

- Go to the end of the platform (as far away from the entrance as possible).  This will allow you more freedom, and less foot traffic.

- Have an alternate platform on your list (just in case they chase you away from your first choice).

I would love to see some of your shots when you get back.