Kicked Off the Sidewalk for Taking Pictures

[@BrendanvanSon]

It seems like I got chased off the sidewalk when I'd done nothing wrong. They have a history: kzbin.info/www/bejne/lZ7Nl2uvZsx4o9U And, don't forget to subscribe: kzbin.info

[@AlexScene]

Brendan van Son why are people so paranoid about cameras in public? Don't people realize that they have devices that are worse for their privacy in their pockets? Don't they realize that almost every step of their day is recorded on a security camera that is stored on an unsecured server? And for businesses? Is it supposed to be a secret that your gigantic building is there? Photographers are not doing anything wrong by taking your photo/you building's photo in a public space.

[@dmatz]

Brendan van Son totally get you man. You know how many times happened to me during a visit to London? People is scared for anything.

[@robertgrenader858]

It is a public sidewalk, and there is nothing illegal about taking pictures of a building, other than overly aggressive Corporate Security B.S. Sidewalk color, design makes no difference, it's public space. Private property has to be posted for No Trespassing. They could prevent you from shooting in their lobby, but not outside. You did, however, give the Rent-A-Cops something to do.

[@myster5y]

Contact photographing is not a crime and new now Houston on KZbin it’s perfectly legal to record in public in Texas. As a photographer you should know your rights a lot more they think they can tell you what to do since you comply with their illegal orders. They don’t have a right to tell a tourist to not to take pics. Nope they do not own the sidewalk it is public.

[@nickatnite225]

Dude. You must have pissed off those Security Guards or something and NOT telling us the whole story. I live here in Houston and have shot that building countless times from all four corners (Day and Night) and have NEVER been harassed by them.

[@PhotoBrad]

I'm a professional photographer since the '80s. I often shoot architecture and sometimes models in public places. About 90% of the time, our shoot will be interrupted by some nobody who comes over and tells me I can't shoot there or they ask if I have a permit. They're the self-appointed "art police". I just tell them to mind their own business and I keep shooting.

[@3f34f2f4]

You have every right to photograph anything you can see from a public space. As a photographer I will always stand my ground to defend that right.

[@BrendanvanSon]

I agree. And, I would have put up a fight, but I didn't really care to argue at 5am. I just wanted to take pictures, so I moved an inch away to the curb which must have annoyed them even more. haha

[@3f34f2f4]

It's not their fight to begin with as they can't remove you from a public space. By the time they would have called the cops, you would have already got the shot from the angle you want. Great videos lately Brendan! You still planning on going to Georgia(country)?

[@Brenda-xc7sq]

I did read that you cannot shoot the Eiffel Tower at night when the lights are on because the lighting design is private property.

[@3f34f2f4]

You can shoot it all you want at night. You can't sell the photos commercially. Similar to what Brendan was saying in this video about the buildings.

[@BrendanvanSon]

Yes, exactly what Dana said. When the eiffel tower is lit it's considered "art" and treated as such. So, you can sell for editorial or use the images for whatever purpose you want, just not for commercial.

[@JanneRanta]

That's one of the rite of passages for a photographer. Having to deal with overzealous guards and sometimes cops.

[@BrendanvanSon]

Right?! haha. But, it's just never happened to me while out on obviously public space before. Took me by surprise.

[@JanneRanta]

I'm surprised you haven't had to deal with TSA or airport cops since you almost live there and always have a camera.

[@BenjaminFreddie]

Most definitely a rite of passage. If anything though, these things usually just make you better at being a photographer in public because you learn how to still stay in the flow of things even with distractions and hiccups like overzealous security guards

[@Slinkysees]

First time checking your work out. Neistat stylings of the vlog aside, your energy is phenomenal, and it really comes through the camera. Also I am thoroughly enjoying your gear/craft geek struggles and rewards of the "work" of photography. It's always nice to find a new useful sub.

[@edruttledge342]

I got hassled by a security thug in San Francisco. He wanted me off the sidewalk. I told him to go call the police and I would discuss with a sworn officer about my right to occupy a public space and 1A rights and that I would not discuss it further with him. I was polite, but I did not move. He went back into his thuggy hole. No police ever showed up.

[@MrChrisromero3]

Hey man, i'm loving the narration in the vlogs these days. it ads a really nice touch to it. Keep up the great inspirational work.

[@viewfinderthis]

Hi Brendan. Love your videos and photos. Keep up the great work. Quick question. Do you color calibrate your dell laptop? As of recently my dell's colors are different than what I see on my phone. Thank you in advance.

[@BrendanvanSon]

Yeah, Dell is a bit different. I ahvent calibrated, but I should. I kind of just know my laptop and how it looks, so I adjust in the edit.

[@viewfinderthis]

Got ya. Yeah, even after I edit in lightroom and export properly they just look completely different on anything else than my laptop.

[@haraldselke]

The problem is that it isn't always easy to know whether you're on private ground. On a visit to London two years ago, we were taking photos around Canary Wharf when a security person came towards us to tell us that basically the whole area is private ground. While they usually don't say anything when you're just taking snapshots, we drew their attention because we were taking photos late in the evening and used tripods (on sidewalks that at that time of day were deserted, so it wasn't for security reasons). He let us continue taking photos after he was convinced we were taking them for personal purposes only. The same rules apply in other parts of London like Granary Square next to King's Cross and other areas.

[@ohmykelseySD]

Hey Brendan! Love the videos. I think this one brings up an important point on legalities of shooting in public/private spaces. I know you’ve explained this in prior videos but could you refresh my memory on the difference between selling a photo commercially vs. editorially? Are you allowed to take photos of privately owned buildings if you have no intention of selling them whatsoever? I’ve been kicked out of places before for shooting private office buildings/construction but I had no intention of selling the photos, I was just practicing. What would you do in a situation like that? Thanks!

[@BrendanvanSon]

If you're on private land, you can't do anything. It's up to the owner. If you're on public land you can sell for editorial but not commercial. I think I need to make a video on this soon. Haha

[@site_alpha_Liberty_Cat]

If your ever confronted on a public sidewalk adjacent to a public street in the US ask them nicely to show you the property line. It's usually stamped into the concrete. Unless the property owner or leaser is paying the city for an easement for something like a patio as long as your not impeding traffic or you are shooting on the leased easement your usually in the clear. Be it a little time networking with the building manager in advance can sometimes take you places you would not even think of shooting from. People love to show off their structures but thy are also protective of them because security aside they spend more time there than at their own homes.

[@ragtop63]

That's some next level artifacting. What are you shooting with and/or exporting to?

[@johnsoutherland8179]

I'm from Houston, and I'm sorry they were shaking your hands at you and being Rude.. lol but like you said maybe it is private propterty.

[@TheOtherDom]

Voice over intros work well dude. Adds a nice clean introduction to the film, sets things up. Keep them going 😊

[@jameswright6316]

Dude, welcome to Texas! I spent 6 months in 2014 traveling from state park to state park in TX. I actually got pulled over for taking a photo from the side of an otherwise unoccupied street within a park. The cop was "concerned" with what I was taking a photo of - not the placement of my vehicle etc. The harassment was common.

[@drtechtek2165]

So, I have questions about that. In the US there is an exception for the copyright law, which allows photographers to reproduce the work(according to 17 USC 102(a) 8). So can someone sell the pictures using that law? And also if the work is visible from a public place one can reproduce the work by photographing it. So couldn't you use that law as a protection to you, and be able to sell the picture?

[@BenjaminFreddie]

This kind of thing happens to me almost every other time when I am shooting street portraits in NYC. I was once told I was “trespassing” while standing at a crosswalk on a public sidewalk. Usually I just move 20 feet down the road and continue as planned.

[@jeffreywright4548]

This happens to me all the time when I'm out doing street photography. There was a particularly annoying security guard at the One America Plaza in San Diego that tried to scare me off from taking pictures of their building. This was late at night and the sidewalks were nearly empty so they couldn't even claim I was obstructing anything. They tried to sound official and scare me off telling me what I was doing illegal and when that didn't work told me they were going to call the police. I told them that was fine and I'd wait. They went back inside their lobby and gave up. The hilarious thing is the entire front of their building is glass so they have absolutely no expectation of privacy there.

[@JasonTeale]

Yeah there is one spot in Busan, South Korea where you get kicked out from not only the roof but the ground below. Sadly this was directly a result of SO MANY photographers shooting the same building. Here that is sadly how and why security gets pissed. When so many people show up they get angry.

[@rvboondocker2559]

Great photography B. The security guard has no authority. They probably knocked on the window because they want to get out and need your help!

[@edruttledge342]

They want a pension and a doughnut.

[@paulinoaz]

Security guards are contracted by the site owners and do have the authority. I have not been to that location but it does appear that the interior sidewalk is part of private property and they are within their rights to not have anyone on there if they wish. But he did the right thing by staying on the road which is a public road and it seems the guards are aware of that since they did not bother him after that. They probably see photographers every night and are aware of what is ok and what is not.

[@billberry6821]

100% LOVE THE INTROS!!! I noticed you had done a couple and thought, "is that a new thing, or am I just noticing it now?" Wasn't sure so I didnt comment on it, but I definitely noticed them, and 100% LOVE THE INTROS!!

[@BrendanvanSon]

Yeah, I've only been doing them a week. I thought they'd give the video a bit more direction, or an impact take-away. I think they do (for the most part).

[@thesoulkeeper31]

Hey Brendan, quick question in regards to something you mentioned here in this video. You say you can't sell an image "commercially" of a building because of copyright laws. Based on your comment on @UFGator1972 post about "12.2. Property Release" I'm guessing this is the reason, which even though it might be the law, I still find it ridiculous that a photo taken from a public place of a building can't be sold commercially, even though it can be seen from a public area. But, that's not my question. If selling a photograph of that building commercially can break copyright laws, wouldn't this video do the same if it falls under the KZbin monetizing plan? I've tried to look for more specific and clear explanation of the law in regards to buildings but all I found was a bunch of forums discussing this matter and a page with the exact information UFGator1972 posted.

[@BrendanvanSon]

I'll do a video about this at some point. But just because you're making money doesn't mean the video/photo is commercial. If the photo was used directly to still something (ie as a background for an airline ad for flights to Houston) then it's commerical. If it's in a newspaper article talking about downtown Houston (even if the paper makes money from an airline ad for flights to Houston) next to it, that's editorial. But, like I said, I'll do a video on this soon.

[@thesoulkeeper31]

Very much appreciated Brendan.

[@wesleypope102]

What's the hardest country you've shot in when it comes to photographing in public? or are most countries fairly relaxed when doing your photography and not over the top with laws?

[@BrendanvanSon]

Guinea. It was actually illegal to take pictures there. Not just in certain place, but actually illegal everywhere. I still took lots of photos in the countryside, but I wouldn't dare leave my room with a camera in the day. I'm going to do a "travel diaries" episode about it at some point.

[@kingkenny2635]

You are becoming very spoilt Mr Van son 😉 As for you intros they aren’t too bad. Your best ever voice over is the one about not worrying about being average. Never a truer vlog 👍

[@chripposh]

so even in forest u can get problemes?

[@snarkishly]

In some European countries, like Spain, you need to ask permission to photograph anyone in public that will be recognisable in your image. There's a right to privacy even in public view. There are plenty of stories of police being called and forcing photographers to delete images. Lately the rise of camera phones have inured people to the constant exposure to people snapping away. But you can still draw attention to yourself if you're carrying a big DSLR, tripod, etc.

[@ericjohnston3569]

I woulda said call the cops.

[@old4004]

Brendan, do you take commercial photos for the hotels that comp you? Just wondering if you do work for them that you don't show to us.

[@JPWineberg]

So question? If you post something on a monetized channel aren’t you using it commercially? Trying to understand this for my drone work. Can I post drone imagery, taken in the states, and post it on a monetized platform without an FAA license? Thanks for any help with this!

[@BrendanvanSon]

Commercial means you used the image / video directly to sell to someone. So, yeah, you can use your footage on a monetized platform as long as that footage isn't selling a product directly. The best explanation of this is: In a magazine if there's an article about a news story about a destination with photos of that destination, those photos are editorial. You don't need any sort of releases. In a magazine, if there's an ad next to the same article with a photo. And that ad is selling a hotel, flights, tours to that same destination, the photo attached to the ad is commercial and you need a release. However, the photos in the article are still not commercial, even though the magazine still make money. Make sense? Just because an image is used on a platform that makes money doesn't make it commercial. The NY Times makes money, and it has hundreds of photos in each issue, almost all of them are editorial.

[@JPWineberg]

Brendan van Son I’ve asked this question many times and never received a clear answer. Thank you so much for clearing this up for me, keep up the amazing work! Long time fan.

[@rickeycarter]

Tripods and the DC Metro do not go together even when you are there late at night and it is abandoned. Another issue was the George Washington bridge after 9/11. The port authority cornered us with 6 police cars for taking a family photo in front of the welcome to NYC sign. Oh well.

[@BrettBodkinsPhotography]

Cool to see you hit an area that I know pretty well. I lived near Kemah for about 5 years and worked in Galveston. I have many images from every place you hit in this video and a few others! Take care.

[@UFGator1972]

12.2. Property Release Less known than the model release is the property release. When you want to sell a photo of a certain building, you sometimes need the permission of the owner. Underneath a list of cases where you might need a release or not. 1. NO - Public property Government buildings, public schools, parks 2. NO - Private property - unidentifiable locations with no identifiable features 3. NO - Private property from public accessible location eg street or motorway Building (s) in an image whose central focus is not these buildings. For example landscapes and skylines 4. YES - Private property - identifiable Homes, office buildings, private schools, universities & the surrounding property, cars, boats, private & corporate jets & planes. Studio locations with identifiable features 5. YES - Famous locations, landmarks Unless properties classified as being in the public domain 6. YES - Corporate logos & insignias Any trademarked logos or Insignias 7. YES - Pet / Zoo / Farm / or rare animals A recognizable animal. Excludes wildlife 8. YES - Publicly displayed art Privately-owned art that is publicly displayed. Excludes art classified as being in the public domain 9. YES - Boats, Cars, Airplanes etc. Considered private property 10. YES / NO - Historic Locations Monument or historic home. Need to check with Property owner source : thread on iStock forum Architectural works are protected by U.S. copyright law, specifically by 17 U.S. Code § 102(8). In fact, copyright law was officially changed in December 1990 in order to include these architectural copyrights. What does this mean for photographers who want the ability to make and sell architectural photos? The law does not apply to buildings created before December 1, 1990 (so architectural photos of such works can be taken and reproduced without permission). Except for buildings that cannot be viewed from a public space, the copyright owner of a post-1990 building (the architect, developer, or building owner) cannot prevent the making, distributing, or public display of pictures, paintings, photographs, or other pictorial representations of the building. See 17 U.S. Code § 120, which covers the scope of exclusive rights in architectural works. Therefore, photographers need to be concerned only when entering private property without permission to take a photo of a post-1990 building. Such photos may result in a claim of copyright infringement. source : nolo.com

[@BrendanvanSon]

Great information, thanks for posting this.

[@UFGator1972]

You are the man. I just want people to understand that it is better to be informed than sorry.

[@zam023]

Anyone else thinks those law are so backward in this day and age where everyone carries mobile phones with a camera.

[@TheReTurnersFlips]

zam023 Taking a low quality picture with your phone is different than a professional taking a picture of the location with intent to profit from it.

[@zam023]

In that case, the owner of the building should take action after the fact. They should not assume everyone with a DSLR is a professional out to take pictures to sell. They are people who has a hobby of taking pictures of buildings. I am sorry if I sound a bit too harsh. Not angry with you. The issue just irks me >_

[@trainandlightguy]

I had a similar problem last year when I went to photograph the Hershey Medical Center. They have these cool RGB color changing lights that light up the front of the hospital so as I was getting set up for a shot with my DSLR and tripod here came the Hershey Medical Center Security guy driving up behind me. He asked who I was and what I was doing. He said I'm not allowed to take pictures of the hospital unless I get special permission from the office inside. So I took my tripod down and left. A few months later I found out through one of my friends who runs with the local fire company said that that security guard had no right in telling me that and that I could have taken the picture that evening. My main goal is to get a picture of the hospital when it's lit up Red, White and Blue for the 4th of July. Hopefully I can do that someday.

[@MDRFoto]

I shoot there all the time, you have all the right in the world to shoot there...hundreds of people shoot that location every year.

[@IainHC1]

Love the vid :-) But one thing though...... Was 'Anyway' spelt with an 's' when you were at school? Because I can never remember one being there when I was at school!!

[@Sqt45]

As a Houstonian photographer, I was to apologize! If you're still in the area I know of some cool spots in Houston! Let me know if you want to connect.

[@L0wr0ad]

I don't know how I missed this upload but you were totally across the street from my neighborhood at Johnson Space Center, cool to see you hitting up my favorite spots to shoot around town. Those security guards at the Chevron buildings can be a pain. I just tell them I'll be gone in a jiffy and they usually just give up and I'm pretty sure they know me by now. 😂

[@kirstywestaway877]

16 feet from the centre of the road is public easement and regarded as public highway, as per numerous first amendment audits - my Husband is very knowledgable about this as he’s always watching the videos on KZbin, it drives me crazy having to listen to them!! Love the intros and it was nice to go to bed with you! 😉

[@scottman895]

I have been enjoying the intros you have been doing in the past several videos. I would definitely keep going with them if you are happy with them! Also, I'm glad you got the chance to go to the Johnson Space Center and the Kemah Boardwalk. I definitely would like to go to both on a future Houston trip. I've been to the space center once when I was young, but I don't remember much as I was only a kid then, lol!

[@jlgoins64]

great video Brendan, that kind of crap happens all over. I live in the central part of N.C., and it seems every time you hold up a camcorder somebody calls the cops...some are just making contact because they have to, while other cops try to bully you....keep up the good work.

[@tonyglaser1029]

I get that problem all the time. Whenever I shoot downtown, I have either security guards or cops that come down on me. Don't even try using parking garages for elevation either, I've had a gun pulled on me by security there. It's very tough to get good spots unless you have permits.

[@jamieboreham8036]

Hey Brendan, been meaning to comment for a while as I've been a big fan of your channel for a few months. Really enjoy following your travels, your enthusiasm and passion for what you do makes its engaging and feel like we're on the journey with you. Love the intro additions, think it definitely adds something to the vlogs. Questions - what audience do you aim to pitch these videos to? It must be hard considering your follower base is so varied! I'd guess it's easy to talk from a native point of view (ie explaining the new places to your fellow countrymen), but then also the existing / new subscribers battle, interested to hear your thoughts. Keep up the great work, vlogging daily must be time consuming and tiresome but I think I can speak on behalf of your followers when I say it's very much appreciated!

[@BrendanvanSon]

Thanks for commenting, and for following along. I don't aim at anyone. I'm not marketing myself. Simply, I want anyone into photography or travel or just interested in general is welcome.

[@samazer4478]

What backpack are you using?

[@BrendanvanSon]

Burton f-stop. Go back about 2 weeks, I show it off

[@bertrandr.6183]

This is more for the commenters (great video btw). 1. Remember that laws differ by jurisdiction (country, state, etc.) - specifically with regard to photographing buildings Copyright law (Federal in the US and Canada) is the main concern. 2. Except for buildings or parts of buildings that can't viewed from a public space, the copyright owner of a post-1990 building (the architect, developer, or building owner) cannot prevent the making, distributing (including for money), or public display of pictures, paintings, photographs, or other pictorial representations of the building. See 17 U.S. Code § 120, to get an idea of the scope of exclusive rights in architectural works.

[@macdunlap6257]

Had that once in downtown Birmingham and I just told the rent-a-cop that if he wanted to call the cops to knock himself out. I was on public sidewalks and he couldn't stop me and neither could the cop. He gave me the evil eye and just went back inside. I'm a lawyer as well and they CANNOT stop you from filming on public sidewalk. NOW AS A CAVEAT be aware that in an open air shopping center you are NOT on public property so THEY CAN stop you then.

[@MonoXxNet]

These intros are sooooo goood. Keep going with them!

[@keepthemomentum]

I don't know about Houston but, in Dallas, if you use a tripod on city sidewalks, you have to have a permit. The permit has to list the specific location, date and time of your shoot and contain your identification and anyone involved in the shoot. It's detailed, it has to be done in advance, and it costs money. It's insane, but it's the law. I took a couple cameras and a tripod up into the Reunion Tower (a popular tourist attraction) in the center of Dallas and was told I would have to pay a professional photographer fee to be able to shoot images because, of course, anyone with more than one camera is considered a professional. That is their rule. It took about twenty minutes but I finally convinced them I just wanted to take some skyline photos. Quite a hassle to be able to take photos at a popular tourist attraction where the biggest appeal is their photogenic skyline views. Anyway, always be aware of local laws, especially in large cities. They can be crazy.

[@GadgetJohn]

I love the intro, it definitely adds an extra level to your videos. 👊

[@musicmachineplayer]

Hi Brendan quick q why do you edit on a PC and not mac?

[@BrendanvanSon]

Pc all the way. Dell XPS 15

[@PhotographerSen]

You're such a Gentleman, Brendan! If I was in that situation (actually, I have been in such situations), I'd ask the guard to show the restriction rule on paper.

[@thomwilliams1527]

Great video Brendan eh! Love the intro definitely grabs my attention. Thanks for sharing your portable audio booth V.O. work around!

[@nerwin]

I got kicked out of a mall once for taking a snapshot with my phone of a beautiful staircase I wanted to show others. The funny thing is, other people were doing it too but I'm the one who got targeted. Yes, I realize malls are often private property but when they don't display signs, or their rules don't mention photography. I even emailed them about it and they didn't even know any rules about photography. it's like the security guard was just power hungry. Like you said, why build something beautiful and expect people to NOT take photos of it?! This is ridiculous.

[@SkippyGustilo]

Where do you get the music for the vlog? anyone know the artist?

[@jasonkennedy2045]

I love the intros, adds another dimension to the vlog and almost polishes it, if you know what I mean. Love the wide angle shot of the chevron circle. Great points about legality, it’s tough in London because I can shoot a skyline but not a building... weird laws.. cheers Jase

[@toddvannote5154]

just an FYI - That series of buildings you were taking pictures of in downtown Houston was formerly the "Enron" complex. Remember the big scandal... Enron/Ken Lay 2006? That small garden you mentioned on the "island" close to the curb is about where the big "E" logo was located. Further, the big "ring" you were photographing is part of the tunnel/skywalk system to get around downtown Houston. If you know how... you can get to pretty much any building in the downtown area without ever having to go outside. Next time you come to H-Town explore the tunnels.

[@jlsc4125]

That happens to me constantly, unkowledgeable security thinking own the sidewalks. I tell them the facts, if they challenge me I have them call the police. It's a time for me to educate people. 9 times out of 10, they dont' even call.

[@solidzane]

jl sc because we don't want to do the paperwork. Lol. Any guard that doesn't know where their client's property ends is an idiot. *I'm a security guard that knows where my authority starts and ends. I observe and report and hope to God that I don't have an incident requiring police response. Unless I need the overtime... 😁😎😉

[@jlsc4125]

Oh, I certainly have run into more good helpful guards than I have bad. I think in most cases, they just don't know the law, simply letting them know is sufficient. Some of them get hard nosed, those are the ones that I suggest call the police. One time I went across the street and took shots back and they came after me.

[@sreeser3512]

This is the real solution. Know the laws* - you should anyway - and politely inform the guard they don't have jurisdiction. Most of these guys are just doing a job, not out looking for trouble. If you're polite and don't cause any real problems, they would rather just let you do your thing and leave without incident. Even if you aren't sure or you know you are on private property and you're confronted, apologize, say you didn't realize, and ask if you can finish taking the photo before you leave since you're there. Sometimes they'll give you a minute or two even if they do have the right to kick you out - as Solid Zane said, they don't want to do the paperwork! * For the record, in Texas, the law actually was possibly on the guard's side. [Edited because stupid me forgot the last line.]

[@jlsc4125]

I know the laws, and I was well within them. It was the rent a cops that I had the issues with, not the real police. They don't know the laws, they have no one who tells them the law, so I politely did so. Some take it well, others tell me I'm wrong and that's when I ask them to call the police. They really don't do any paperwork other than a note on a clipboard and only if there is a hassle of some type. Seriously, this is the REAL solution, educate the private security folks when you hire them.

[@solidzane]

Long reply ahead... The contact with you, if no police are called, is just a note. If police are called, it requires an incident report. Police report number, if there is one. Contact the client manager in charge of security. Contact the security company management. All of this is on the report with a detailed accounting of the whole encounter. *At 1300 hrs. I, security officer Jon Smith, witnessed a person doing such and such. At 1302 hrs I asked client supervisor what to do. Advised to conact the person and request they vacate the site. At 1306 I requested the person leave. They refused. Police contacted at 1308. I maintained post and observed the person until police arrived at 1332 hrs. Police sergeant Boyd, badge #22010, contacted the person and took him into custody for tresspassing. Police report #000298747738. Contacted client management at 1348. Contacted security manager Jones at 1355. Wrote this report at 1403.

[@christophergray7434]

Sorry to see you had hassle taking photos. I loved the black & white picture, it was fantastic.

[@philbuglass4857]

If they can't be bothered to come out and explain the situation, I would just smile and carry on what I was doing. I don't think they can stop you being on an open, unfenced sidewalk, even if they *do* own it. I am not a lawyer, nor do I play one on tv, but I would still have challenged this. At the very least, make them come out of the building and explain themselves...

[@tammymellertphoto]

Love it - Brendan van Son's Blanket Fort Confessions......the BEST ever!

[@ChrisLonsberryMedia]

LOVE the intros! Blanket fort.. brilliant! I can't even comment on the guard thing because I'll get rolling and end up on a watch list somewhere. The best scenario there is that he was covering his own behind because he was scared some higher control freak might yell at him.

[@BryanMalloch]

Interesting...I've never had an issue shooting at Chevron downtown. Sorry that happened, if you come back I'd be happy to show you some spots!

[@tanyaliepins31]

Loving the new style intro voice over great start to the blogs 🖒

[@StevenSSmith]

you can google any county and appraisal district and see property lines. For Houston it's hcad.org/ Its google maps with property lines.

[@MoonKrystal18]

I'm digging the intros. And it's a good excuse to make a blanket fort...not that you need an excuse...yay to adult blanket forts!

[@henryfitzthum7563]

I know the feeling and experienced it afew times, not so much in the city but country folk, while doing landscape photography from the road side yes the road is public domain, we experienced a guy in a large black truck come racing up and stopped right in front of my vehicle, we've been chased on a dirt road, just happen to look in the rear vision mirror and seen this white car racing up behind us some distance then they stopped and went to their trunk to get something, told my wife hang on cause I'm not wanting hang around to find out what they are getting out and we're normally looking over our shoulders during night photography, so yes one can experience anywhere

[@chrisplunkett2814]

I was in the same situation a while back and was hassled by a security guard who insisted on telling me that he had the power to stop me from taking photos of the building he was 'guarding',and if I continued he could take my camera away from me and make me delete all my photos.I of course pointed out to him that he had zero power over anyone who was on public property,whether or not it included images of his employees property.He also didn't believe me that no one including civilian or military police had the power to take my camera or memory card or make me delete any images I'd taken while in a public place.He threatened to call the police,and when I pointed out to him that this he was over stepping the limits of his 'power' that I was in my rights to call the police all the time he was trying to prevent me from taking part in something that was 100% inside the law,he decided that it was necessary to go and get his supervisor.The supervisor was I guess better trained at making up bullshit laws that don't exist. Before he left in somewhat of a huff,I pointed out to him a couple of other facts. He could no more stop me from taking photos of this building than any member of the public could stop someone from taking photos of the outside of their house. If they didn't want people taking photos of it,why the hell did they build it in a busy city centre? If this is the case and they have something to hide,they'd build it in the middle of nowhere and have high fences and walls around it with 24 hour CCTV surveillance.

[@twiztedzero1685]

Have a SD Card in your pocket carrying a .pdf of the local photography laws. When they want to delete or take your camera, act frantic and swap your good SDcard with the laws one and hand it to them and say oh sorry. Then pack up and mosey on out of their sphere of influence :p Tricksy I know heh. In the end you retain your SDcard from the incident. And they get a little bit of an education after the fact if they check the SDcard you handed over. (ps. SD Cards aren't cheap; don't use an expensive one for the pseudo card you 'hand over'. ) Practice your sleight of hand w00t!

[@chrisplunkett2814]

Why should me or anyone have to do this when we're doing nothing more illegal than drinking water or reading a newspaper in a public place? In England there are no 'local photography laws' and the only way anyone can legally take your memory card is by getting the necessary paperwork from a judge,this covers every single square inch of public places in this country. If the security guard tries to forcibly take the camera or card from you,he is committing an offence and will be dealt with by the law in the same way as any other law breaker.

[@solidzane]

I'm a photographer and a security guard... The guard only has authority to stop you from entering the private property whose owner they work for. Public property, they have no say to. That said. The guard could call the police and claim suspicious activity. The cops would come and question the photographer. But in the end, as long as you are on public property, you're good. There is also the probability that the manager/property owner told the guard to do something. Normally a guard is quite literally only to observe and report. They have the same powers of arrest as any citizen. If they witness a misdemeanor, or suspect you of committing a felony that has just occurred. In truth. We all greatly prefer trespassers simply leave, as a police call results in paperwork. We don't want any problems, we don't want to "go hands-on". We just want to write our hourly report and go home. Same as any worker. 😁😉

[@eliaxkxd8644]

How do you make those super stabile car hyperlapses?

[@BrendanvanSon]

Just with a suction cup and a gopro sessions.

[@mrmotofy]

Nope...it's public access. All those street signs light poles the plumbing underneath is all a right of way. Regardless of who owns it, it's open to the public they can't kick you off it legally. If there's any dispute look up the GIS for that location. Virtually any county has online accessible plat maps showing property lines etc. Check out News Now Houston channel. He does 1st amendment audits etc and well versed in the laws as well as an awesome local contact.

[@sander5086]

I really like the intro's, it's a great way to start your video's!! when I was photographing the Shard in London, there was a security guard asking me what I was doing. When I tolt him that I was just taking some pictures, everything was fine with him.

[@NadavFedida]

Nice content man. really digging it :) keep it up.

[@Minoritynomad]

Texas man. Where even the security guards think their Texas Rangers. lol

[@chrishoare1479]

In hot climates leave your camera in its bag in the bathroom or behind the curtains of your hotel room to keep it warmer before going out

[@ernestthomas9406]

the same thing happen to me when I was tacking pictures around a hospital in St. Louis I was on a sidewalk & told I was tacking pictures of people in their rooms but it was the building

[@TarrelScot]

This “privatisation of public space” is becoming quite a problem in London. There’s an area of offices and open space on the south bank of the Thames called New London, which is all privately owned. In the middle of it is the London Assembly Building; a public building where the mayor has his office. But, if I understand correctly, you can’t get to it without crossing private land! (Oh yeah, and the security guards definitely have “tripod phobia”!)

[@sharronferreira6420]

Omg I love been on holiday! Busy processing my pics in LR with KZbin in the background waiting for your vlog to come up!

[@BrendanvanSon]

Hope you got some cool photo on your holiday! Where did you go?

[@sharronferreira6420]

Actually I’m in Erlangen, Germany. Practically a city built around Siemans. Hubby is training for 2 weeks, and I came along for a break. Busy processing my Bamberg pics. What a beautiful old city! Stacks of history, that I don’t know much about, but will have to read up on before I post. Only problem with been a tourist with 2 non photographers, is that I have to compose a shot and take it “on the run”! So lots of work in processing!

[@derrickjjohnson6924]

Where can you sell your photos at?

[@tysonator5433]

I have watched some US citizens do KZbin videos of First Amendment Audits. The videos are shocking because of security & police attitude ! If there are public signs, telegraph poles, power lines, street lamps are installed and maintain by the borough council / city council not private organisations.

[@twiztedzero1685]

I photograph here in Canada and I usually carry a packet of the local laws printed into pamphlets in my camera bag; with a few extra in my pants pocket in case I'm ever confronted by authority someplace. Canadians can get theirs here: ambientlight.ca/laws/ Other regions and countries likely have something similar. It doesn't hurt to have a few copies for the area's you're visiting along with you.

[@capt1089]

I think the intros are a nice adder! Keep doing them!

[@peterabbott3438]

The intros are great. Adds some focus and context to the normal insight.

[@BrendanvanSon]

I'm glad you like them!

[@Pre_Boom_bescent]

This happened to me twice in the past week. One place litterely had rusted trucks... was denied due to security reasons

[@RalphGoldsmith]

So true about choosing your battles. If it's worth it, stand your ground, if not.... who needs the stress? Great tip on the voice-overs, must try that for one of my videos sometime :-)

[@timwilson659]

The issue is that a lot of security guards have been told by the property owner "No Pictures of the building", and most don't understand that in a lot of cities, their limit of authority STOPS at the building. They assume that since they are required to maintain the sidewalk in front of the building, that it must be part of the property. Normally that would make sense, but this is govt we are talking about. Do yourself a favor, next time you go into the city look and see if you can find the property corners. They should be near the building corners, if so, then yup, the sidewalk is public property, and NO, you don't need a building release to simply take the image, that only applies if you plan on selling the image.

[@BrendanvanSon]

Yeah, I don't blame the security guard they are doing what their asked. I blame whoever is telling them to do this.

[@soundslikewater]

plus, it is a hassle to deal with them, A total creativeness killer. I found this online. Maybe you can incorporate/explain it in one of your clips. thanks! www.nolo.com/.../copyright-architectural-photos.html

[@rodrodriguez7032]

I live in downtown Houston, because of 9/11 you cannot go into the downtown buildings or stand on sidewalks. It's hot and humid here in Houston. Do not photograph any of the oil refineries you can get into a lot of trouble. I'm surprised that NASA let you photograph inside. Yes it's Chevron. Nice photos

[@baas3652]

Some very good images you captured here. It would be interesting if to more images from the locations you visit :)

[@Brenda-xc7sq]

Yes, I like the new intro, also I watch and love all your videos even though I don't often comment but I always press the 'like' button,

[@MrZombs123]

Im from San Antonio.. hope your experience here was good.. SA isn't really all that exciting.. but maybe thats bc I'm from here. People here generally tend to be pretty friendly though. You are right about the public vs. private property thing however usually in my experience if you calmly just tell them what your doing and try to strike up a friendly conversation people are usually pretty cool. Sometimes them security guards get on their little power trips though, but I think thats everywhere to be honest...

[@twotone3070]

Don't get incarcerated or at least if you do, make sure you are out in time for Crete in September, I just booked the flights.

[@scottmartin1179]

I think the intros are great. A little more insight into your job and adventure. Appreciate the effort.

[@CincyPhotography]

happens all the time especially with cops, thats when you take your cell phone out and record them and then they walk away, but it sounds like all you did was say yes sir and put your camera away for him

[@jurgencornelissen8565]

I love the blanket fort intros!

[@KoolKyle_Adventures]

I've been getting heat from security guards in downtown Los Angeles the past year. They usually follow up with a comment about the tripods. I guess we can't do tripods on the sidewalk in dtla. He seemed cool with the handheld shots though.

[@MikSwePhoto]

Funny you asked, I was about to comment your voice over intros. They are great, they get me in the mood. I think you actually could do more of them, set a different pace and maybe more depth. I'm thinking maybe I should do the same in my videos, we'll see ☺

[@AndrewSmith-ff2pu]

We have a new shopping centre/street in our city and we (local camera club) were moved on by security because it is "privately owned". Shame, because we were a group of friends wanting to record this new development of our city, not for commercial purposes. The images would have been shared on social media but only for the good of the development - their loss! (I did go back on my own and got my image though!) I also understand that Canary Wharf in London is very anti-photography as well - again, their loss!

[@timskinnercanada]

I really enjoy the intros. They really set the tone. The security guard issue is annoying. My first impulse would be to stand my ground, but, as you rightly point out - choose your battles. Good call.

[@CodyJancaric]

I love the new intros. But hate the harassment when I’m downtown photographing Houston as well. Sorry bro, most of the town is much more hospitable.

[@nomadcompany]

Dont forget laws are different in other countries mate.... your reach is international now.

[@geoffellis]

Ya, in my city you can take photographs from city property (for example, sidewalks) - but the moment you start obstructing a sidewalk or path (for example) with equipment (ie tripod, lighting equipment), you need a permit.

[@feliciafullwood]

I love the voice overs!

[@BrendanvanSon]

Thanks dude!

[@MrPhotog4u]

I thinks it’s funny that a company builds a beautiful building but gets upset when people want to take a picture of it😜

[@BrendanvanSon]

Haha. Would so agree except Chevron bought the building from someone else.

[@tjblues01]

It's more complicated. You take a beautiful picture ...and you are upset when ppl copy it without your permission, right ? :-) But I strongly believe that what you can see in public space you should be able to photograph without legal hassle.

[@MrPhotog4u]

tjblues01 If I built the same building in design and feature just in a different location and copied it to the last details then I could see someone being upset but just taking a picture of it because it’s a beautiful building should make them feel great about the design and the attraction it brings to them for the great design. Man we tend to complicate things....

[@douglasriddle6447]

Like the intros. Many security guards get confused and think the sidewalk belongs to the building, it is usually about a 3 foot apron around the foot of the building. Legally in the US you can shoot what ever you see from a public place....except...1. The police can say no tripods on the sidewalk. 2. Certain sites...waterways, bases of bridges, dams, etc fall under the jurisdiction of Homeland Security, and they will prevent you from shooting. These site are not always marked.

[@TheReptileGod]

I really like the voice over intros. I believe I said as much in a previous video. Also here in the Uk, security guards are a constant obstacle when photographing in cities. However, most of them don't know the law & actually as long as you're stood in a public space, it's not illegal to take a photo of anything. And lastly.... space shuttle vs spaceship? Reminds me of your Lake District videos with Thomas Heaton... "It's not a lake, it's a tarn" :P

[@gromitdaddy]

1st travel vlog from space? That would win the internet!

[@nikolaszikakis1046]

Wow, those concrete columns holding the pier have seen better days!!! Looks dangerous