As I share my street photography with a growing audience I am frequently asked whether people give express permission for me to share their photos. I explain that in the United States it is legal to photograph anyone of any age in public in situations where there is no reasonable expectation of privacy. Those photos may be shared and sold as works of art without the subjects’ permission. At that point someone in the conversation will usually say they do not want their photo taken or shared without their permission, art or not.
Frankly, I do not blame them for feeling that way. I strive to show the beauty in everyone’s humanity, but too many people, from casual snappers to professional photographers, revel in capturing people in compromising positions. They make and share those photos for the shock factor. They may mock the person’s size, shape, age, dress, or anything else they feel like picking on. Others make disparaging memes using the photo. I imagine if I came across a photo of myself used that way I would be hurt or angry.
This afternoon I stumbled across a photo on a street photography feed which reminded me of this issue. The photo showed a man doubled over and vomiting in a public place. There is no reason outside of shock value or mockery for that kind of photo. Even if the shot had been part of a documentary series, there are far more tactful ways to shoot that situation. But too many people find their entertainment in making fun of others, and the proliferation of personal photography combined with the internet makes it all too easy for too many people to participate.
So I understand when people say they wouldn’t want a stranger photographing them, and I respect the wishes of anyone who sees me photographing them or their child and asks me not to photograph them. It’s just a shame the lack of respect some people show for the humanity of others has made street photography something some people fear.