Hunting Blinds?

[bwc]

Howdy,
Has anyone ever used a hunting blind to photograph in the macro mode? The wind here in the desert can be terrible. If one doesn't get out by first light once the air warms up, it moves and there isn't much protection from it, especially when working alone. So I'm thinking of a hunting blind, but perhaps the inside would be too opaque. Then strobes could be used. I once put up a majestic 8' tripod with clear plastic around it and used rocks to hold it in place to shoot flowers. A ranger came by and said I looked like a pro and if I didn't have a license I better get out of there or he would fine me. I said fine me and he did, the judge wasn't to kind either. And I guess on federal land one needs a permit to photograph in true macro/micro mode even if you are only hang your photos on a wall and never sell them. Las Vegas used to be run by the Mob. Now the "Mob" is law enforcement! Protect & serve, yep...

[LordV]

Not quite the same thing but I sometimes use a 3 foot diameter diffuser for natural light shots in strong sun. Doubles as a wind break as well, although if the wind is that strong it would require suitable anchoring :)

Interesting about the photography judgement- how can you be professional if the pictures are for private use ?

Brian V.

[bwc]

Howdy LordV,
Now, at this writing I'm a retired industrial photographer who worked 30 years for the Dept. of Defense & Interior. During the time that I was cited I was still employed. My equipment then was large format and I shot over 3000 weddings in Vegas during my working years. Now I'm retired and have only begun using Cannon gear for a couple of years now. Weddings, I used Nikons. I also have only been using the computer for a couple of years also, that is why I'm asking all those dumb questions. Thanks for asking.

[BradM]

While I don't really agree with the Ranger's actions he did do exactly as requested, that is at least part of the definition of "to serve".

And with 30 years being paid as a photographer with over 3000 weddings, which I would assume weren't paid for by DoD or Dept. of Interior, that a reasonable assumption is that one with those credentials is taking photographs for profit, and a claim otherwise may well be to avoid paying for a permit.

[bwc]

Howdy Brad,
Right you are...I should have gotten a permit. And I'm checking out those details as we speak. Thanks.