greymule wrote:
I'll be leaving for Arches and Canyonlands tomorrow AM, and I'd like some comments and pointers for photographer's etiquette when shooting in a crowded location with very limited timing for the "best" image.
I plan to arrive at my chosen areas at least a half-hour early to pick my spot and set up. What is a reasonable "zone of comfort" space between one and the next photographer? Ask to share a particular spot? How and when? People setting up in your field of vision or encroaching on your space? Situations such as, but not limited to these. I'm not sure what to expect, having never tried to capture images in a crowded environment.
I don't want to have to pack my pistol or nun-chucks, or create a hostile environment. I also don't want to ruin the beauty of the experience.
Any and all tips, comments, anecdotes or guidelines would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance.
Rick
I'll be leaving for Arches and Canyonlands tomorro... (
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Great question, and i commend you for asking. This is an issue that is too often ignored and can lead to many unpleasant encounters, minor scuffles, and the occasional need to seek medical attention.
Personal space is dependent on two factors; physical space of the location, and number of photographers present, and your time of arrival. Three, thats three factors.
A good example would be shooting Mesa Arch in Canyonlands. You will need to arrive at least one hour before sunrise if you hope to get a choice spot. (<- serious). Expect a small convention to convene during the 30 minutes before actual sunup. By arriving very early, you get first dibs on the best angle; everyone afterward has to make due with what is left. Their loss.
The physical space at Mesa Arch is small in comparison to many other popular locations, therefore personal space is somewhat reduced. The unwritten law of etiquette is that you start with a radius of approximately 6 feet around your tripod when there are five photographers or less. but this shrinks as more photographers arrive. At Mesa Arch, this usually results in the radius shrinking to about three inches at the final time of shooting. It helps somewhat if you can learn to shoot with elbows held out wide.
Note: placing your camera bag along side of your tripod is considered bad form, and can on some occasions result in another photographer being forced to "accidentally" spill a little of his Starbuck's Vente Latte Americano over your prized 24-105 L lens. Don't complain, you brought it on yourself. (This is, however, a good strategy to keep in mind should you be the victim of such an inconsideration yourself).
Newbie photographers with point and shoot cameras will often break the rules of etiquette and step forward of the tripod demarcation line. Despite their social faux pas, one should not resort to obscene name calling. A simple "Hey you. Move your arse", will suffice.
Never, under any circumstances, tolerate other photographers speaking directly to you. Getting the best shot is serious business, and allows no room for any social pleasantries at all. If someone, feigning politeness, asks, "Do you mind if I place my tripod here next to yours"? A gruff, "Yes, I mind. Now bug off", should get your point across. Attempts at social small talk such as, "Beautiful morning, isn't it"? should be responded to with the standard "I've seen better", or better still, "Don't get out much do you buddy"?
Understand this, the majority of photographers are unschooled in proper group shooting protocol. They insist on using politeness, common sense, consideration for their fellow shooters, and social harmony above the serious business of getting the perfect shot. They seem to relish in sharing the experience of being someplace special with others who likewise cherish an affinity for photography. Don't become one of them. Stand your ground and let the others fend for themselves. You have no obligation to help others have a pleasant and successful outing.
And remember, carry a Starbuck's Vente Latte Americano.
:twisted: