Is It Against the Law to Do a Personal Photo Shoot in a Public Place Like the Mall Without a Permit?

Photographing in public can raise basic concerns and questions about whether you need permits or permission. There is not one definitive answer in terms of what you can photograph in public, considering that laws change depending on the location and the type of photo shoot.

Laws Differ By Country and City

• Most laws in the U.S. take the stance that if something is out in public, you have the right to photograph it. This certainly does not apply in all countries, nor does it apply in all cities. Cities that are known to host commercial photo shoots, such as New York, require that you have a permit for most outdoor shoots that include recognizable landmarks.

Personal vs. Commercial Photo Shoots

• Laws regarding photography outside largely concern how you will use the photos. Personal photos are generally accepted, even when technically against the law; however, you need a permit to do a commercial photo shoot outside, even at public landmarks. A commercial photo shoot is one from which you plan to make money, such as using the photographs for advertising.

Copyrighted Items

• While the Mall is considered a public monument and can be photographed without violating copyright law, this is not true for all monuments. For example, the Eiffel Tower in Paris uses a light show that is copyrighted, so photographing the Eiffel Tower while the lights are flashing is illegal.