Photography Etiquette

Just read a couple of articles regarding the infamous “Geisha paparazzi” in Kyoto. (original articles here on CNN and Petapixel).

It sounds sad, and, if I may also add, makes one look really desperate when trying to flock these ladies just to get a few snaps to share on your social media.

Looking at the video embedded in the Petapixel article, it just looks as though a group of photographers are waiting for a parade to pass by in a theme park. No, these are not cast characters - these are just regular people on their way to work, and should be given at least the decency of their own privacy and space.

You can argue that the streets are public and laws do allow general photography on public spaces. You can argue that as long as no trespassing of private properties or any physical contact is done there are no laws broken. You can argue that these ladies chose to walk the path of a Geisha and having their shots taken should not come as a surprise.

The arguments are definitely sound, but I just hope there is still some sense of etiquette, or at the very least, human decency, to not cause any distress to the ladies or commotion in the streets.

Just really disheartened to read about this news, and it would be unfortunate for everyone if new laws and rules were to be enacted that eradicated all forms of photography in that area.

While this is just one example, it seems like such behavior has become more rampant recently in various places.

I am not advocating everyone to stop shooting or dismiss street photography entirely, but just, please shoot while being considerate and respectful to your subjects and surroundings.