Boston POTN Meet

[Harm]

Ahhhhh gotcha - thanks for elaborating!

[symbolphoto]

Here are some of the pics, still not through all of them. Will be soon though:

http://symbolphoto.com/other/helo/helo6sm.jpg
http://symbolphoto.com/other/helo/helo9sm.jpg
http://symbolphoto.com/other/helo/helo10sm.jpg
http://symbolphoto.com/other/helo/helo13sm.jpg
http://symbolphoto.com/other/helo/helo17sm.jpg
http://symbolphoto.com/other/helo/helo19sm.jpg
http://symbolphoto.com/other/helo/helo26sm.jpg
http://symbolphoto.com/other/helo/helo27sm.jpg
http://symbolphoto.com/other/helo/helo2sm.jpg
http://symbolphoto.com/other/helo/helo30sm.jpg

[symbolphoto]

Wow the color is crappy on these. I'm doing it from my work machine. Not my personal machine. I should calibrate this crappy thing..

[Harm]

Great photos...but as you said, the colours are a little off there! Still though, fantastic shots!

[symbolphoto]

A few more... (uncalibrated of course)

http://www.symbolphoto.com/other/helo/helo30sm.jpg
http://www.symbolphoto.com/other/helo/helo31sm.jpg
http://www.symbolphoto.com/other/helo/helo32sm.jpg
http://www.symbolphoto.com/other/helo/helo35sm.jpg
http://www.symbolphoto.com/other/helo/helo36sm.jpg
http://www.symbolphoto.com/other/helo/helo39sm.jpg
http://www.symbolphoto.com/other/helo/helo41sm.jpg


If you guys want to set another one up, just hollar. You guys already have three, Scottes, Harm and HornyTurbo.

[symbolphoto]

Last few....

Sideways over fenway:
http://www.symbolphoto.com/other/helo/helo42sm.jpg
Mediflight landing on Mass General:
http://www.symbolphoto.com/other/helo/helo45sm.jpg
My house:
http://www.symbolphoto.com/other/helo/helo46sm.jpg

[Becca]

Those are GREAT Brendan! Looks like a good time (other than I'm afraid of heights!)

[20DNewbie]

Wow, that looks like it must have been heaps of fun!


Just found something else for those that like raptors, Hunt's over in Melrose is having Jonathan Wood and the Raptor Project visit this Sunday if anyone is interested.

http://www.raptorproject.com/index.html

http://www.huntsphotoandvideo.com/content/calendar/eventinfo.cfm?eid=82

[flyfisher]

Brendan,

Great Shots I would love to try it sometime but we are finishing our plans for our yellowsone trip in sept.

[HoRnYTuRbO]

nice series B, looks crazy fun!!!

so who's down for the next ride???

[Harm]

Stunning.....

I am down for the next ride :)

[CyberDyneSystems]

COOL!

[Harm]

even CDS is foaming at the mouth at going...

[Harm]

Ooooh, I just realised something about your last shot, Brendan. Oddly enough, I thought it looked familiar, but my wife and I did have a look at that apartment complex to live in too...but the commute would have been a nightmare, so we're above Boston. Still though I did like the place though...

[symbolphoto]

Hey thanks guys (and gals, Becca! Nice to see you back!),

Whenever you folks are ready, just let me know, and i'll forward someone who wants to take care of the next trip the info...

Stuart is up for flying anytime...

[symbolphoto]

Speaking of helicopters, there are three above my house right now. I feel like i live in L.A. I just checked the news and nothing.... odd.

[Harm]

maybe you are the news?

[symbolphoto]

haha, make that 4 . One R22, one bell jet ranger and 2 eurocopters...

[symbolphoto]

Just caught it on WHDH, some woman was bit by a police dog. No other info :rolleyes: 4 helos for that??

[DavidPhoto]

great pics from your copter ride. I might be down for this next time if my schedule frees up a little and the cost is reasonable. How long were you up for?
What lens were you using and what f stop were you able to shoot at?

[symbolphoto]

We were up for 1 hour and 5 minutes total. Takes about 9 minutes to get from Marshfield to Downtown Boston. Ahhh the benefits of flying 150mph in a straight line. :(

[Harm]

With more people, I am sure the pilot would be happy to stay up a little longer for everyone to get some good shots.

[DavidPhoto]

If someone can PM me the details I'll definitely consider this.

[symbolphoto]

With more people, I am sure the pilot would be happy to stay up a little longer for everyone to get some good shots.


Yep, i've gone over time with him before and he doens't nit-pick on time...

[Harm]

I can organise it up this time around.

Just give your thoughts to the following weekends:

August 1 / 2
August 8 / 9
August 15 / 16
August 22 / 23
August 28 / 29

Who is free on the weekends and available on both days (in case a Saturday is cancelled due to weather - we can then go on the Sunday).

As I mentioned, I know one the 1st weekends (most likely the 1/2nd Aug) will be out for me for my wedding anniversary, so hopefully we can stick to mid/latter August :)

[symbolphoto]

I just spoke to him and he's open pretty much every weekend....

He says if you want to shoot fenway, just be sure to schedule around the game itself as he can fly over an hour before or after that game.

[HoRnYTuRbO]

hey Harm, im down for any date just let me know in advance

[Harm]

He says if you want to shoot fenway, just be sure to schedule around the game itself as he can fly over an hour before or after that game.

Didn't Jay (aka FlyingPhotog) state that there is an exclusion zone on game days?

[symbolphoto]

Yeah, it's just from an hour before until an hour after the game though. Shouldn't be too hard to schedule around it.

[Harm]

good thinking, batman.....

Probably be better before the game rather than after....since people like to hang around fenway beforehand at least....we could always land on the pitch and go for a quick one too (a drink that is!)

[Harm]

Brendan - One helicopter, or provisions for 2 again?

And would I be right to assume that the costs would be the same? Assuming 3 non-flakers per 'copter?

[symbolphoto]

You can have two at the same time, but you'd need 5-6 committed folks. Cost is same, $180 per person.

[Harm]

right, no flakers!

[bryanj87]

Wow Brendan, those are some fantastic shots!
For anyone interested, the Buttonwood Farms Sunflower festival is going on in CT.
http://www.sunflowersforwishes.com/
I went last year on a weeknight for sunset and got some decent shots, and had some wicked good ice cream.

[Harm]

Certainly is quiet in this thread!!! Wake up slackers!

[polarbare]

Been posting more in the HDR group where Scottes is a contributor so I was thinking maybe people would be up for a photowalk next weekend perhaps? Maybe Copley to Kenmore or something?

[Scottes]

I can never commit for weekends in the summer, but one never knows.

Come September/October, I plan on setting up a couple walks, day and night.

[Harm]

Come September/October, I plan on setting up a couple walks, day and night.

Around town? should be a good time then for it...

[polarbare]

I'll be setting up a regular monthly photowalk as part of expanding our reader base for Bostonist.com. It will be open to everyone so hopefully some of you may come out. Other than the publicity for the walk will be on Bostonist, there is no other tie in and no financial commitment or anything, just a group of people exploring different parts of the city.

[Harm]

Nice...I'll check the website when I go home...see where you'll be wandering about to.

[Scottes]

Brad, Do you think you could post a monthly reminder and a link to the Bostonist site? There is now way I'll ever remember to check until it's too late. So little time, so much to read...

[polarbare]

Sure, I'd be happy to post a reminder here. We're looking at doing the 3rd Sunday of each month, mostly morning shoots with the odd evening shoot perhaps. I'm actually up for suggestions for our first shoot which I'm hoping will be 8/16.

I'm thinking the North End or Boston Common & Public Garden as they are such photogenic places, and will allow us to get a gauge on who is interested in this type of thing.

I'll post back when I get specifics in, probably will be tomorrow afternoon or Thurs.

[funhouse69]

To anyone that enjoyed going to the Westford Butterfly Place (http://butterflyplace-ma.com/) or was thinking about going there anytime soon. Part of their roof collapsed and are closed until further notice :-(

Here's a link to the story.
http://www.lowellsun.com/ci_12944674

[Scottes]

That's a bummer!

If you haven't been there, Magic Wings in Deerfield blows the Butterfly Place out of the water. BP is nice because it's close, but MW is much, much larger. It's worth the 1.5-hour drive because you can spend hours shooting.

[Harm]

what is Magic Wings?

[Scottes]

Magic Wings is another butterfly house, out in Deerfield Mass.

http://www.magicwings.com/

"Our 8,000-square foot conservatory is home to nearly 4,000 free-flying butterflies from all over the world!"

Great place, and well worth a visit.

[GMACK24]

Awesome Brad.

can you try to post the info on the Boston, Massachusetts Flickr Group too.
Our group is always up for stuff like that. Thanks ! ! !

[GMACK24]

This is also coming up .....

http://www.archboston.org/community/showthread.php?p=81004#post81004

Government Center Walking Tour: Modernism in the Heart of Boston
Calendar: Boston Architecture/Urbanism Related Events
Beton Brut
Senior Member

Request Reminder for this Event
08-17-2009 05:30 PM to 07:00 PM
Event: Walking Tour
Location: Meet @ corner of Staniford & Cambbridge
Half a century after it was originally conceived, Boston’s Government
Center is poised for reconsideration. Despite its noted urban design
challenges, the complex is eliciting calls for new interventions that could
help it achieve—or perhaps exceed—the intent of its original visionaries.
This tour will be led by David Fixler, FAIA, Gary Wolf, AIA and Henry
Moss, AIA, LEED of Docomomo/New England-US, and Sarah D. Kelly,
executive director of the Boston Preservation Alliance. It will begin at the
Lindemann Center in Government Center, and will include a broad range
of works showcasing the variety and quality of modern buildings in
Government Center, as well as their challenges.

This event is free for Alliance and Docomomo members and $15 for non-members.

[polarbare]

I'll be happy to, hopefully details will get covered today.

[Harm]

Well, since we're getting some walks and stuff organised etc. I am still able to plan - Via Mumbles - a helicopter ride around Boston. I guess August is too busy for people, but if there are at least a bunch of us available maybe we can get 1 ride up and around town...

[Scottes]

For any trips/walks, I will probably wait until the end of September before making any plans. I am up for walks, choppers, butterflies, whatever. But not until September.

Of course, if any Saturday is a rain-out then I won't go to camp, so I'd be available. Considering this is New England, I won't know until Saturday morning...

[Scottes]

One thing I've been wondering about lately... Shooting locations. In the winter - and sometimes in work - I do research on possible shooting locations. When the weather is right, I go visit them. I have something like 1300 possible photogenic locations around New England. But I'm always looking for more.

Would people be willing to collaborate, and share their locations?

I'm not sure about the best way to do such a collaborative project. Google Earth? A Wiki where we can all edit things to post location-specific photos and comments? Links from a Wiki to Google Earth?? Keep it private or make it public?

Anyone interested?

It won't be easy, but I'm willing to take on the difficult parts (web site / wiki / whatever). It won't be quick, either - it will take time to put it together, and start posting info. This could keep building over years, though, into a great resource for everyone.

[Harm]

How far are you willing to travel? For shooting locations?

I can organise the 'copter trip for Sept. No rush for me....just not labour day time....wife's family reunion stuff <insert sarcastic "yaaaaaaaaaay" here>

[Scottes]

How far are you willing to travel? For shooting locations?
Distance depends on value. Basically, anywhere in New England, though southwest CT and northern ME need to provide a good reason.

Further, with a very good reason. Bald Eagles in Alaska will happen one of these days...

[Harm]

You can see Bald Eagles in Millinocket, Maine...(only 5 hrs away), good for viewing moose in the wild, bears and bald eagles - couldn't get any photos of the latter at my lens is / was too pathetic...

I've heard some good stuff about upper NH, around the Kancamagus Hwy, and a little further north too for landscapes.

I normally drive up I-93 and I-89 to the very top to get to the in-laws at the top of NY State...plenty of nice areas to stop off and get off the beaten track up that way too...

[Scottes]

The Kancamagus Highway is beautiful. Plenty of spots around there. I know it well.

Route 2 past the Conn River is nice, too. North Adams and Rt 7 going South. Beautiful in the foliage.

[Harm]

My brother in law lives in Lake George at the base of the adirondacks...I'd heartily recommend that place, esp during the autumn time...go up 87, see Tupper Lake, Lake Placid, Whiteface Mountain (when there is no snow)...etc. It is not far off New England. Upstate Maine is pretty spectacular also, whether you go up I-95 towards presque isle, or whether you branch off and head towards calais at the canadian border..

[polarbare]

The Post is up but if you don't want to click a linky (http://bostonist.com/2009/08/05/come_join_bostonist_on_a_photo_walk.php) here's the short scoop.

Sunday August 16th @ 9am -- meeting outside Boylston T stop. Will walk across the Common to the Public Gardens, down Newbury street, and over to Copley Square.

If you're interested please let me know. It's free and everything but I'd love a head count!

thanks!

~Brad

[Harm]

Thanks very much for that, Brad.

[mai_lin]

Distance depends on value. Basically, anywhere in New England, though southwest CT and northern ME need to provide a good reason.

Further, with a very good reason. Bald Eagles in Alaska will happen one of these days...


How about this place? http://www.bannermancastle.org/photogallery.htm

I'd seriously LOVE to do this one day...

[Scottes]

That's within distance. Cool-looking place.


http://www.bannermancastle.org/news.html

October 18, 2009 - Photo Workshop - 3:00 PM

BANNERMAN ISLAND PHOTO WORKSHOPS - 3 hour on island workshop
Thom Johnson & Robert Rodriguez Jr., Instructors
Shoot dream photos on Bannerman Island
Fund Raiser, $110 donation, includes lunch.
Call: 845-234-3204


This could be interesting. I'd rather just have the place to ourselves, though.


You might also be interested in this list of castles in the US:
http://www.dupontcastle.com/castles/

[Harm]

where is Bannerman Castle?

and that latter list is great, Scott

[Scottes]

where is Bannerman Castle?
Middle of the Hudson River.
http://www.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=bannerman+castle&sll=42.548022,-71.394653&sspn=0.232695,0.340576&ie=UTF8&ll=41.455313,-73.98887&spn=0.473453,0.681152&z=11

[polarbare]

Just a reminder about the Bostonist Photowalk on Sunday, 9am!
http://bostonist.com/2009/08/05/come_join_bostonist_on_a_photo_walk.php

[Harm]

ahhh crap....my BIL will be down this weekend, so I won't be able to make it.

[Scottes]

9:00 AM? Man, you guys start late. All the good sun is all used up by then.
:D


If I'm around, I'll try to make it.

[Harm]

Scott, your location says "a little north of Boston"...how north is north??

And yes, 9am is too late for all the nice light, but heck no, I am not getting up THAT early this weekend :)

[Scottes]

Burlington.

I'm generally back in bed by 9 AM. :D

[Harm]

Ahhh, just up the road from me then...I am in Melrose...woohoo...party city central...

[Scottes]

Just a reminder about the Bostonist Photowalk on Sunday, 9am!
http://bostonist.com/2009/08/05/come_join_bostonist_on_a_photo_walk.php
I have a very good feeling that I will be there. I may be tired by 9 AM, and possibly sick of shooting by then, but I'll try to be there.

[Harm]

What a perfect day out there....kind of day you wish you had a big yacht to go to the ocean for a wee bit!!

[Scottes]

The weekend looks cloud-free. Bummer. I hate plain blue skies.

[Harm]

wispy clouds are nice :D

[polarbare]

Normally I'd be up and out by sunrise but since this is a group of unknown skill and dedication, I thought 9 was a safe starting time for the 1st one. If I find out people are willing, I'm not adverse to making future walks at 8, 7, or sunrise. :)

[Scottes]

Come the end of September I will most definitely be up for a night shoot or two. Or 3 or 5 or...


Does anyone know if the MBTA still cracks down on photography within stations?

Edit: Found their July 2007 policy...
http://graysky.org/public/MBTA_Photo_Policy.pdf

In order to provide the highest level of security to its customers and employees, the MBTA requires that any person on or in MBTA property or vehicles taking non-commercial/personal use photographic or video images, including, but not limited to film, digital, or video recording (hereinafter referred to as “pictures”) of MBTA property, vehicles, or employees, must provide proper identification (see Part IV, Procedure) upon request of an MBTA Transit Police Officer or other MBTA Official.
...
Any person wishing to take pictures for any type of commercial purpose or use, (e.g., movies, commercials, trade publications, etc.) must first obtain a permit from the MBTA Marketing Department.
...
No permit is required for non-commercial/personal use pictures taken in public areas.
...
Non-commercial photographers are prohibited from using tripods, monopods, wiring or any like equipment that may have an impact on the safety of customers or employees and are prohibited from interfering with the free flow of passengers or disrupting service in any manner.
...
News media photographers who prominently display their Commonwealth of Massachusetts News Media Photographer identification card or News Photographer tri-card will be allowed to take pictures in the public areas on, in, or of MBTA property, vehicles or employees so long as they do not interfere with the free flow of passengers or disrupt service in any manner.
Scottes: How do we get one of those??
...
MBTA Officials: Officials who observe a person taking pictures shall immediately notify the appropriate Line Dispatcher and inform the person of this policy. The Line Dispatcher will notify the MBTA Transit Police Dispatcher. If possible, the Official should obtain the identification information (name, address, date of birth, and any other appropriate information) while awaiting the police response. If the person refuses, the Official should ask the person to stop taking pictures and the Official should update the MBTA Transit Police Dispatcher.
Scottes: Sounds like they'll detain anyone and call the MBTA cops, regardless of the rest above!!

[polarbare]

The official MBTA police website is at transitpolice.us and they have their photo policy on their as a PDF. I just keep a copy in my bag.

http://transitpolice.us/Photo%20Policy/Photo%20Policy%201.pdf

[funhouse69]

Did anyone else go to the Jaffrey, NH Fireworks Festival? This was their 20th anniversary and did not disappoint at all. I took something like 350 pics of which were really difficult to narrow down even then I still probably posted way to many :-)

Anyway if anyone is interested you can check them out here (http://funhouse69.smugmug.com/gallery/9294047_KbXiU/1/621106202_p3boc)

[Harm]

Anyway if anyone is interested you can check them out here (http://funhouse69.smugmug.com/gallery/9294047_KbXiU/1/621106202_p3boc)

Bloody communists at work have blocked many sites I used to be able to see....

[symbolphoto]

Does anyone know if the MBTA still cracks down on photography within stations?



That's a roger. Any very busy station you will get hassled, Park Street etc... if you are in some dead Blue Line station, you'll be fine.

[polarbare]

Just carry a copy of the PDF I posted above and ask for a supervisor until you get one and you'll be fine. If they start throwing around garbage about taking shots in the stations you can remind them that T stations are public, and therefore anything you can see standing on the platform isn't a "secure location" or similar.

[Scottes]

Thanks Brad.

Along the same line, which stations do you think are the "most picteresque" ? It's been a while since I've been on the T. All I can think of is Harvard Square. (That's the one with the long escalator and lots of glass, right?)

[symbolphoto]

Just so you know, that PDF may or may not work. I've been down there with the Guardian Angels shooting them and they actually confiscated my card! I had it sent back to me in the mail... (luckily i switched cards before they actually took it and kept the footage), i even tried to delete it while they were looking. Nope, no dice.

So while shooting down there by yourself may have never drawn attention to them, a group of folks with gear and tripods most likely will. I guess you've got nothing to lose by trying though, unless you get the jerk i had who took my card.... but like i said i did get it back in a week. Maybe the FBI analyzed it? haha

[Scottes]

Good tips Brendan. Best to shoot when no official MBTA/Transit folks are in sight.


LOL! I just realized that I am going to check to make sure there are no cops around before I do something legal!!

[Harm]

Usually, at most public places, like airports, train stations etc. I ask the police officials if I can take a photo or two...this way, they don't hassle you, they don't ask for I.D. or anything. Better than just shooting away and then having some powercrazed idiot asking for your blood and camera for a simple non-commercial shot.

[BillT113]

Did anyone else go to the Jaffrey, NH Fireworks Festival? This was their 20th anniversary and did not disappoint at all. I took something like 350 pics of which were really difficult to narrow down even then I still probably posted way to many :-)

Anyway if anyone is interested you can check them out here (http://funhouse69.smugmug.com/gallery/9294047_KbXiU/1/621106202_p3boc)
Funhouse69,
I went to the jaffrey fireworks also, it was the best display I have ever seen.

[Scottes]

Usually, at most public places, like airports, train stations etc. I ask the police officials if I can take a photo or two...this way, they don't hassle you, they don't ask for I.D. or anything. Better than just shooting away and then having some powercrazed idiot asking for your blood and camera for a simple non-commercial shot.
I've had this fail miserably, too. If they are some kind of hard-ass and say "No" because they don't know the law, then you're screwed. You'll really piss them off if you takes pics anyway. And it's difficult to counter with the "but it's legal" argument. If it's legal, why'd you ask?

After a couple bad experiences, I have to say that it's easier to ask forgiveness than ask permission.

Granted, I've also had a couple bad experiences with power-crazed morons stopping me. But at least I got some pics those times.


Mind you, experience shows that I *will* ask permission if on private property. But not if I'm in a public area.

[symbolphoto]

Yeah it's a grey area i know very well. I feel them out in the first sentence or two. If i think they are going to be a hardass the entire time, i simply satiate them. Hence giving up the card. (Which i would normally never do). I now know to keep a second card handy and the minute i hear someone calling at me or walking in my direction i discreetly switch cards beforehand. I've only done it once since and that time it wasn't confiscated.

So it's like a lottery, sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. But you'll never win unless you play right? hehe....

[polarbare]

I know what you're saying about hitting up a power tripping employee, but if the letter doesn't work, get the name and badge (or employee) number of the person and go file a complaint, including that you carry and displayed a copy of the MBTA's own policy and were still harassed. You could also call the cops and speak to an actual police officer. They might tell you to go file a complaint as well, but they might look at it objectively and tell the MBTA employee to put a sock in it.

You are 100% allowed to take non-commercial photos in and of the T without a permit or authorization. :)

Being from the south I actually find charm in most of the stations on some level. Airport is nice, and I think Aquarium is my favorite with it's long eliptical roof. Probably the worst I can think of is Boylston, there just isn't anything really there..

[funhouse69]

Funhouse69,
I went to the jaffrey fireworks also, it was the best display I have ever seen.

Was this your first time there? I've been there more than half of the 20 years and each time they impress me with something bigger, brighter and of course louder :-)

Did you take any pics?

[Harm]

I saw some photos from the fireworks...looked pretty spectacular!

[BillT113]

Was this your first time there? I've been there more than half of the 20 years and each time they impress me with something bigger, brighter and of course louder :-)

Did you take any pics?
Yes it was my first time there, but I think it will be the first of many. I have some pics here.

http://picasaweb.google.com/BillT113/20090815JafferyFireworks#

[jcpoulin]

Just so you know, that PDF may or may not work. I've been down there with the Guardian Angels shooting them and they actually confiscated my card! I had it sent back to me in the mail... (luckily i switched cards before they actually took it and kept the footage), i even tried to delete it while they were looking. Nope, no dice.

So while shooting down there by yourself may have never drawn attention to them, a group of folks with gear and tripods most likely will. I guess you've got nothing to lose by trying though, unless you get the jerk i had who took my card.... but like i said i did get it back in a week. Maybe the FBI analyzed it? haha

May be the advantage of my mark 2N or 3......the advantage of 2 cards....just hand then the CF and keep the SD in!!!

[polarbare]

Mumbles - Just saw that last part in jcpoulin's reply - Without a court order they have no right to take your CF cards unless you're being arrested. They also legally have no right to view the pictures you've taken or make you delete them. If they push about any of those things, call 911.

[symbolphoto]

Mumbles - Just saw that last part in jcpoulin's reply - Without a court order they have no right to take your CF cards unless you're being arrested. They also legally have no right to view the pictures you've taken or make you delete them. If they push about any of those things, call 911.

This wasn't an MBTA Employee, this was the MBTA Police.

I've yet to meet you, but anyone on here that knows me knows that i'm not new to the police or being subject to search. Hell in the last year, i'd been shaken down by the Department of Homeland Security twice (being near a navy ship on closed off areas in Boston, once in Yuma Arizona for getting on base without permission, Secret Service (Carrying a lot of gear in a pelican case near Obama rally), Boston Police Detectives (shooting engagement session in a back alley where a murder took place), Boston Municiple Police numerous times (Black Falcon Pier, almost every other time), MBTA and Boston Regular (Assorted).

So let's just say that i'm a man familiar with the law and familiar with being searched and checked out. I know what my rights are, and i know when i take photographs in or on MBTA property, they have no right to confiscate my material. I'm not easily rattled.

On this particular occasion, i was hired to shoot the Guardian Angels in Dorchester and Roxbury at night. None of the other stringers were willing to do that, so i did. I got some great material and the photos were on the front page of the Boston Herald. Woopdeedoo.

We got into Park Street station at the end of the night, around 2a.m. The last set of shots was going to be them standing on the platform in formation. The MBTA and the Mayor were against having the Guardian Angels here in Boston. So they were not welcome on the T or walking the streets of Boston. They were accosted by BPD and MBTAPD several times throughout the night. (Their main concern was A) if they were carrying weapons and acting as vigilantees and B) People would incite fights with them because of the grouping and uniform). As we went through each progressive RedLine station, towards park street, more and more MBTA Police were appearing in the station.

Finally at park, i bust out the camera with tripod and take the last photo. Upon doing that, some high ranking man looks like he's coming towards me. I've been in previous situations where my cards were confiscated (Thank you DHS) and knew to make the switch before they got too close. I did that, busted a few shots as though i didn't see them. They took the camera down from my face and said "stop shooting". This is MBTA property and we are going to have to take your film or memory cards and discern whether they are harmful photos. I gave them the empty card and it seemed to suffice.

After realizing the gravity of the situation i knew that if i wanted to fight it, i'd either end up in jail (ala Gates in Cambridge) or just hand over the card. I was writted a receipt for seized property and told it would be returned to me within 14 days if deemed unharmful.

Now, it's easy to sit back and say "Oh i'd never give that away, it's against the law". The more you deal with police and more importantly police willing to bend the rules in their favor, the more you realize you need to pick your battles carefully. A group of MBTA police looking for a reason to burn someone is one of those times. If i had put up a fight, there is a really good chance i would have ended up in jail. Wasn't worth it.

I kept the real card anyway and it all worked out. I bet they weren't happy 2 days later to see it in the paper. But i never heard another word about it.

Point being, there are some cops that will bend rules and do whatever they want. The attitude of, "that's against the law", goes very little distance when being threatened with your freedom or in some cases guns even.

If you go by a piece of paper, there is a good chance you'll encounter this reality first hand. Situations need to be felt out. Now the reality is, you guys will go and probably be fine. My situation was entirely different under different circumstances.

.02

[Scottes]

I've yet to meet you, but anyone on here that knows me knows that i'm not new to the police...
I can vouch for that. My upbringing - Lynn - mirrors the effects of Brendan's upbringing - Southie? - and recognized a kindred soul within minutes. :D

Oh, and I've been-there-done-that with Brendan. A couple/three times now. :rolleyes:

[Scottes]

If you go by a piece of paper, there is a good chance you'll encounter this reality first hand. Situations need to be felt out. Now the reality is, you guys will go and probably be fine. My situation was entirely different under different circumstances.
Great post Brendan. I agree fully with the concepts, though of course I wasn't there so I can't say "I would have done the same thing!" Saying that would be stupid.

Situations need to be felt out. If you don't mind being held in jail overnight, then go for it and demand your rights and whatever. Just make sure that you're in the right. Don't pitch a fit if you're standing on private property (like the roof of a parking garage) or inside some abandoned building. If you *think* you're on public property, then apologize and leave. If you *know* you're on public property, then push for your rights.

Cops might not have the right to throw you in jail, but they certainly have the ability to do so. And that sucks, so don't make them completely ruin your night. Pick your battles. Sometimes it's much easier to go away and come back again some other night.

And don't assume I'm a push-over willing to lose his freedom because of that last sentence. George Washington picked his battles, too. It's the smart thing to do.

[symbolphoto]

Oh and for the record, i entirely agree with that cop in Cambridge. That dude was putting up a fit and probably deserved to be put in Jail. Just to clarify.

[flyfisher]

We've also been with Brendon and he would not have given up his card under normal circumstances, we have also been with him when we were told side walks were private property when we moved the street he told them that we were on public property now. I have also harassed in places such as D.C. and sometimes it's not worth the hassle.

[symbolphoto]

Wow, Steve you always amaze me with your photos! Let's see that profile pic in larger form!

[polarbare]

Not knocking you or anything, but the more I'm shooting around Boston the more I'm seeing inappropriate behavior by the cops and I just want to help make sure everyone knows their rights. Sorry if I offended you that certainly wasn't my intent. I am trying to do a lot of small things to help promote photography and assist new photographers in the area (Leading walks, teaching sports photography, etc) and I run into a lot of people that have no idea what the laws are as they relate to photography. I just want to make sure people are making informed decisions, and it certainly sounds like you're one of those folks.

I too have been hassled but have been able to stand my ground. Would I spend a night in jail for this? Yeah I would, but I know not everyone feels that way, nor should they. How far you (the collective "you") go to defend your rights is each person's own business. If you felt it was best to give up your cards that's entirely a personal decision, just wanted to make sure that people are aware they legally they have no obligation to.

Hopefully we'll be able to get together and shoot sometime.

~ Brad

[Harm]

Brad,

I am also on the flickr stuff, but have never made it to a "walk"....have you guys had issues when you're in large groups too?

[symbolphoto]

Not knocking you or anything, but the more I'm shooting around Boston the more I'm seeing inappropriate behavior by the cops and I just want to help make sure everyone knows their rights. Sorry if I offended you that certainly wasn't my intent.

Nope, not offended at all. As you say it is a personal decision. My way is the path to least resistance while still getting what i want. If i'm blocked somehow, i go around it and approach it from a completely new angle (or roof, lol) but each has their own way.

Yeah, this season has been rather busy for us, but i'll try to make it to at least one walk this season.

[polarbare]

Harm,

Actually it usually ends up as less of a hassle in a group since you go from potential terrorist to camera club in most people's eyes. The closest thing to a problem I've had so far this year was security at the mother church just making sure my friends and I weren't pros during our night shoot (http://www.polarbarephotography.com/2009/07/night-shoot.html) since we were lugging around bags, tripods, etc.
But he just asked, we said no, he said OK and walked off.

[Harm]

But he just asked, we said no, he said OK and walked off.

Makes life easier....I'll try to get to a walk some time soon...

[Scottes]

Actually it usually ends up as less of a hassle in a group since you go from potential terrorist to camera club in most people's eyes.
Funny, I've seen the other way. At least once we had a single cop getting extremely pushy and confrontational - maybe because he was a jerk, but maybe because there were 10 of us and 1 of him.

But I'm going to put that incident off to the 10:1 thing, which should be quite rare, since they generally travel in pairs. This one cop was on overtime getting paid to be the protection for a parking garage next to Quincy Marketplace - where protection from drunken partiers makes sense.

[polarbare]

Really? wow.. maybe I just have a sweet disposition. :)

and Harm, definitely come out to one of the Bostonist walks or if anyone wants to hit me up on Twitter it's polarbare there as well. Warning.. my twitter feed is R rated as I cuss like a sailor.

:)

[Scottes]

Really? wow.. maybe I just have a sweet disposition.
Yeah, that must be it. :rolleyes:








:p :D :p

[flyfisher]

Wow, Steve you always amaze me with your photos! Let's see that profile pic in larger form!

Brendon I think this is the one that you asked me to post,. We are heading out to Yellowstone in sept from there to Zion have permit for the Subway, then to Page
for the Wave and we finish up at Havasou falls. should be a good trip would love to get together for another shoot we will be back Oct 26th.

[symbolphoto]

Whoa... that's cool.

Sounds like a great trip. We had a great time out there last year. Enjoy! Tell Jacky i said hello.

[kpratte]

Dame that picture is sharp Steve!

With all this discussion...brings back memories of getting thrown out of the top of the parking garage and when the fire trucks were out that night and got told that we couldn't shoot pictures, but yet we were on public property, good times.

- Ken

[Scottes]

Well, the parking garage is absolutely not public property. At the fire, I don't remember getting yelled at for taking pictures, I remember getting yelled at for crossing the yellow police tape. I can't blame them for that one, for safety reasons.

[symbolphoto]

At the fire, I don't remember getting yelled at for taking pictures, I remember getting yelled at for crossing the yellow police tape. I can't blame them for that one, for safety reasons.

Yeah that was a good night... we had all sorts of things happen that night. I remember smelling smoke all the way from East Boston. Nuts.

[flyfisher]

Brendon you smelled the smoke from east boston then we tracked it down I rember Jackie watchint all of the bags when we crossed the police lines Made for some interesting photo's. We have been thrown out from more than one garage but things always worked out. I still don't know how you you find parking for two vehicles in downtown any time of the night we go.

[Harm]

Howdy folks

[holland_patrick]

what's up guys

[funhouse69]

I think everyone is on vacation or something :-)

[Harm]

"or something" :)

I can only wish for a vacation...

[mai_lin]

I'm still here! I wish I was on vacation too...

My only excuse is that my photography biz is actually keeping me busy - odd huh? LOL Never knew I could make money at this!


Jen D.

[Harm]

Hi Jen, what is new in your neck of the woods?

And what side of the photo "biz" are you in?

[mai_lin]

Hi Jen, what is new in your neck of the woods?

And what side of the photo "biz" are you in?


Everything is grand here - can't complain. How about you?

I've got a portrait biz right now but I'm starting a wedding biz next year :)



Jen D.

[Harm]

Oooh, good luck to you on that venture!! There must be a good demand for that in this area...

[polarbare]

Thought I'd throw this out there again this year. I'm the athletics photog at a DIII school here in Metrowest. If there is interest, I wouldn't mind putting together a group meetup to shoot fall sports in the next month or two. Soccer, Field Hockey & Tennis would be the likely suspects.

any interest?

[Harm]

Sure, depends when, on my interest. Whereabouts is the Metrowest area?

[Scottes]

I would be interested, too. I've always wanted to try my hand at some sports shooting.

[polarbare]

Games will be in Weston. Here are the September dates/times:
Soccer will be women's and men's on Sept 19th, 1st game at noon, 2nd game around 2-2:30
Field Hockey on 10/3 from 12pm-3pm
Tennis on 9/16 from 4pm-8pm.

If any particular thing sounds interesting let me know. Will look at winter sports in a month or two. (Basketball, swimming, shoveling)

[Harm]

What lenses would you use for shooting sports? 200, 300, 400?

[Harm]

If any particular thing sounds interesting let me know. Will look at winter sports in a month or two. (Basketball, swimming, shoveling)

Shoveling...hahaha, sounds like a rough-man's game of curling...

[polarbare]

On a side note, thought it would be cool to learn curling now that I'm living up here.. HOLY CRAP is it expensive!

Depends on the sport obviously as to focal length:
Soccer (or all large field sports incl. field hockey, lacrosse, football,etc) should really be in the 300-400mm range. A 70-200 will work but will limit you to the near 1/3 field or so. Also 1.4x and 2x TCs work great when there is enough light.

Tennis surprisingly is also best shot at 300, 400 if you want really tight crops of facial expressions. But a 70-200 will suffice most of the time depending on where you're shooting from.

Volleyball - 85 1.8, 135 1.8 and 70-200 are the "go to" lenses here.

[BBrat]

Games will be in Weston. Here are the September dates/times:
Soccer will be women's and men's on Sept 19th, 1st game at noon, 2nd game around 2-2:30
Field Hockey on 10/3 from 12pm-3pm
Tennis on 9/16 from 4pm-8pm.

If any particular thing sounds interesting let me know. Will look at winter sports in a month or two. (Basketball, swimming, shoveling)


Brad,

I would be in for any of the above.

[Harm]

Didn't think Curling would be super expensive...unless that cost is for those special granite stones from scotland...next time I go home I'll pop over the border and get me some granite!!!

There are some fields by where I live - Pink Banks...you have Rugby, Football (Soccer), Lacrosse, Baseball, Softball and pretty much any other field sports on plenty of pitches...I thought about shooting a rugby game, but ended up training with the guys...

[polarbare]

$490 per season and up.

[Harm]

Ouch, that is STEEP!!!

What do you get for that, a golden broom stick, and a diamond studded granite stone to curl with?

[qdrummer21]

Brad,

I'm always looking for a reason to shoot sporting events. I can't make the soccer or tennis games, but I would be interested in the field hockey game if a group ends up getting together for that.

[polarbare]

Sure. I'll be shooting all the teams here at least once and I certainly don't mind people coming along to shoot and learn. The only requirements are:
1) Have a good attitude
2) listen to me/coaches/refs about what you can/can't do
3) refer to #1 and #2
4) there is no #4
5) Learn something, anything, during the shoot.

:)

[Harm]

Speaking of shooting....

I'd still like to do a Helicopter run around town...I was PM'ed by mumbles a wee while ago to organise it up...Naturally this weekend is right out, and I may be away 1 weekend in Sept, but other than that I am free as a bird until Thanksgiving, pretty much.

Anyone interested?

If I recall correctly, it was about $180 pp, open doors, and fly about until you get bored / run out of fuel / immigration catch on to you...

Now that "summer" is winding down, people should have more time, I know I do - so lets get this show on the road...or in the air in this case!!

[Scottes]

I'm still interested.

[Harm]

Excellent...well that is 2 names so far....see if we can get another 4. Then find 1-2 weekends (1 as a backup date) that we are all free, and get it all set up...

Late summer / early autumnal colours will be impressive at least.

[polarbare]

I'd love to in the future if it's possible, but now is a bad time for me..

[flyfisher]

I would be interested after Oct 26th as I leave next Friday and won't be back until then.
you could count me in for two slots one taking photo's and one observing.

[DavidPhoto]

I'd be interested for sure. Please PM details.

[Harm]

We can PM the details when we're set with dates etc.

Are there any dates you cannot do? I cannot do the weekend of sept 18th or the 1st weekend in Oct.

So that leaves the weekends of the following as free (for me anyhow):

Sept 11th / 12th
Sept 25th / 26th
Oct 9th / 10th
Oct 16th / 17th
Oct 23rd / 24th
Oct 30th / 31st

We would want the best light, so we would have to look at the sunset times and do something near sunset to get some nice shots...

Anyone have a preference on any of those dates? I'll wing out a PM to Brendan (Mumbles) and get the ok from his mate with the 'copter....See if we can get 2 helicopters going...so we need a total of 6 people to commit fully to this.

[qdrummer21]

OK the helo shoot sounds like fun. Sadly I can't justify the money right now. :(

[Scottes]

Oct 9/10 or 16/17 work better for me. And that might be the best time for foliage around Boston - though one never knows until a week before, and even then it's not guaranteed.

[Kendoway]

Don't know if I can make it up there, but it sure sounds tempting!

[Harm]

Oct 9/10 or 16/17 work better for me. And that might be the best time for foliage around Boston - though one never knows until a week before, and even then it's not guaranteed.

That is why I want to get 2 weekends set up, one as a backup in case the weather will be like crap..


Don't know if I can make it up there, but it sure sounds tempting!

You must give into the dark side....temptation will win over!

[DavidPhoto]

Some of those dates above are Fridays??? October is best for me and Saturdays in October are best.

[Harm]

Awww crap man...American Calendars....Start on a Sunday....

I am used to the UK calendars starting with a monday....Thanks for pointing that out mate!!

Amended dates then:

Sept 12th / 13th
Sept 26th / 27th
Oct 10th / 11th
Oct 17th / 18th
Oct 24rd / 25th
Oct 31st / 1st Nov

[Scottes]

I can't make any of THOSE dates.

:D

[Harm]

I can't make any of THOSE dates.

:D

Bummer for you ;) ;) The Sundays must have ruined your plans!...I am sure we can get a replacement for you :lol::lol:

[Scottes]

I am sure we can get a replacement for you :lol::lol:
Ah, you haven't met me. You'll need TWO replacements.

Because of my larger-than-life personality, of course. :D