d2b2 Loc: Catonsville, Maryland, USA

On February 22, my wife and I went to the Washington (DC) Chinese New Year Parade, which frankly was a bit disappointing. Several years ago, I went to a Chinese community parade of some sort in Seattle, and though it was not the Chinese New Year, the event in Seattle was a far longer, more colorful and ornate parade. But that is not the point…

During the DC Parade, there were a very, very large number of people taking photos from the street – which is to say inside the crowd barriers - many with press credentials of some sort. Some were unquestionably parents and other family members of those participating in the Parade. Many were idiots, among both the credentialed and family photographers.

In fact, it was incredible how many people were inside the barriers taking photos for such a small parade. And rather than stepping back, a huge number of these people were in the faces of the participants, walking with them the entire Parade route, not only ruining the vast majority of photo ops for others, but the ability of people on the sidelines to even enjoy the Parade, in general. Many of the photographers had no concept of their impact with the crowd. One situation in particular, demonstrated the point. I was behind the barrier with an obviously more elaborate camera setup, (monopod, battery pack attached to the D7100, zoom lens with hood and a rather large camera bag,) than most. Not a professional setup, but obviously looked to the parade participants as someone serious about what I was attempting to do. Some of the marchers would attempt to “play to me” as a result.

One of the smaller “dragons” saw my setup and paused in front of me, essentially posing for the camera. Out of nowhere, one of these dolts with press credentials, stepped directly in front of me, completely blocking the shot. It was obvious what the “dragon” was doing, and it really does not matter whether I had a camera or not. The “dragon” could have been playing to a child or a member of his own family. The photographer would never have known, because he was in his own zone, paying no heed to anyone but his own needs.

There are a number of times when I have to lose a shot, in deference to others. There are some cases when I understand that I have caused difficulty for others, and I frequently apologize to them for my own intrusion. But I attempt to minimize any such intrusions, at least by being aware of my surroundings. In deference to some of the other, more considerate photographers, a minor number of them crouched to take their shots, looking behind them to determine their effect on the crowd – but they were unquestionably in the minority.

I would be interested in comments from the group. And I am penning a note to the sponsors of the Parade, asking them to think about limiting the number of people within the barriers, in the future. Though small, a large amount of money and planning was devoted to the planning of this event by those sponsors; but not in this area.

sr71 Loc: In Col. Juan Seguin Land

I can understand your post, and this has been happening throughout time.... people have little sense of what is going on around them.

Picdude Loc: Ohio

Personally I think you have touched on yet another symptom of our 'ME-centric' society. There is very little regard for common courtesy and respect for others anymore. It's all about 'ME'. People live in their own little bubble where they believe they are the center of the universe and everyone else exists just to cater to their needs(wants). You would think with all the social media and devices available to access it that people would learn to communicate and respect each other more. In fact, I fear that it allows us to isolate ourselves instead.

traveler90712 Loc: Lake Worth, Fl.

Try going to the gathering point of the parade. You'll find less people trying to get pictures and those in the parade will be more likely to "pose" for you.

It worked for me.

boberic Loc: Quiet Corner, Connecticut. Ex long Islander

That many people are just plain rude or far worse, is not a new occurence. You can pass any number of rules or laws, but you can't stop stupid. I know this doesn't solve the problem but sometims the cure is worse than the disease

rook2c4 Loc: Philadelphia, PA USA

I'd sure like to attend a parade where all photographing is prohibited. What a wonderful parade that would be.

Picdude Loc: Ohio

I agree it is not a new occurrence. However, I believe it is getting worse and more widespread with time. And your right - you can't fix this with rules and laws. Common courtesy has to be learned, not enforced.

BigBear Loc: Northern CT

Then what would be the sense in going if you can't shoot them ?? :lol:

Picdude Loc: Ohio

:shock: :-D ;)

wilsondl2 Loc: Lincoln, Nebraska

I was behind the barrier with an obviously more elaborate camera setup, (monopod, battery pack attached to the D7100, zoom lens with hood and a rather large camera bag,) than most. So you want special treatment? Limit yourself to the one lens you think will get you the best shots. You said there was not much room. JUst a tip learn to shoot with your elbos out and their points will keep others away and give you a little room. - Dave

rook2c4 Loc: Philadelphia, PA USA

Parades usually are not that great for photography. They can be fun and exciting events, but produce many lousy photos.

bkyser Loc: Fly over country in Indiana

be prepared for them to ask you to help fund security. I'm not saying that it is right by any means, but it is a public event, and people will be ..... people.

Good luck, but I'm doubting you will get very far.

tsilva Loc: Arizona

This doesn't do any good when a**holes walk between you and your subject.

d2b2 Loc: Catonsville, Maryland, USA

?

d2b2 Loc: Catonsville, Maryland, USA

Great idea. We were trying to set up closer to the end, because there is a large and ornate "gateway" to Chinatown in DC, that was toward that endpoint. But in retrospect, that might have been the better call.