LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR STREET PHOTOGRAPHY IN NEW YORK: A QUICK GUIDE (NOT LEGAL ADVICE)

Navigating the legalities of street photography, especially in New York, can be challenging. Before starting your street photography journey in the city, it is vital to clarify and consider a few key aspects. However, it is important to note that this information does not constitute formal legal advice.

Here are some key aspects to consider:

1.     Permission to Photograph: In public spaces, you generally don't need permission to photograph anyone as long as you're there legally. Those written releases you sometimes see are for commercial purposes, not ordinary street photography.

2.     Rights in Public Places: If you're not selling your photos commercially or using them for news purposes, you don't need permission from your subjects. Court cases like Nussenzweig v. diCorcia support this.

3.     Photographing Children: It's not inherently illegal to photograph kids on the street, but use common sense. Following children around with a camera is likely to attract unwanted attention, possibly from the police.

4.     Photography in the Subway: Despite what you might hear, photography in the New York City subway is allowed according to MTA rules. However, police may still question you.

5.     Photographing Police: There's no law against photographing police in public places but interfering with their duties could lead to legal trouble under obstructing governmental administration laws.

6.     Photographing Buildings and Bridges: There are no laws prohibiting photographing buildings or bridges. Some restrictions near bridges might be in place for safety reasons.

Lastly, just because you know the law doesn't mean everyone else does. Arguing with law enforcement, especially about the law, can escalate quickly and may not end well. Remain informed, remain, Respectful. 

 As always, best of luck!

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