Yes, it is sad. Fact is, a mall is private property. Even though it's
open to the public, it's not a public place. Not the same as a public park
owned by a government at some level, although mall owners and their
advertisers would like you to believe it's the same as going to a public
park (except: make certain you spend *lots* of money when you visit). The
mall owners and/or their agents can indeed prohibit photography. The usual
reason touted is to keep someone from copying store and mall advertising
displays. Some upscale department stores pay big bucks for designers to do
their windows.
Not surprised Dave was challenged and equally surprised Tom was not (I
agree . . . must have been the kids . . . no pro photog or industrial spy
would have his family with him). If some mall rent-a-cop had confiscated
(or even tried to confiscate) the camera and film . . . that would be
another matter entirely.
-- John
At 21:30 9/2/01, Dave Dougherty wrote:
In a message dated 9/2/01 1:34:32 PM Pacific Daylight Time, John Pendley
writes:
"Should I call security?"
About 9 mos. ago I took my 35SP into a local mall. I wanted to try out the
spot metering and to shoot an architecturally interesting ceiling. I took 4
or 5 shots, none of the people shopping, when a rent-a-cop acosted me and
wanted to know what I was doing. I reponded that I was taking photos, why?
"What for?" "My own enjoyment." "You can't do that in here, it's against
mall rules." " I might have to confiscate your camera and film." I told him
I was going to call the real police if he didn't get away from me and that he
would be commiting theft if he took my camera and assault if he so much as
touched me! Rather than get into a p...ing contest I left the mall (with my
camera and film) but I would be reluctant to go back after that experience.
Sad times we live in. Tom, you must present a more benign appearence than I
do.
Dave Dougherty
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