M. Lester

Martin Lester examines the ethics and rights of privacy throughout the article, "Photojournalism An Ethical Approach." This article opened my eyes to the restricted areas and boundaries that photojournalists have. Some of this article deals with overstepping boundaries when photographing celebrities. However I do not feel this is pertinent information to a college level of students. I do not feel that I will be finding any celebrities to photograph in Milwaukee any time soon. However, there was information that was useful. This information deals with the four areas of privacy law. Lester states," Consent is the most important factor when dealing with unreasonable intrusion or public disclosure of private facts." So if I am going to go and photograph someone I do not know then I must receive written consent from them. A photographer must be sure that the person who gives permission has the authority to grant the request. Basically, everything in plain, public view can be photographed. Pictures in private places (museum,courtroom, government building) require permission. However, if you are just walking down the street, at a bus or train station, or on UWM's campus one may photograph whenever they care to. If you are seriously considering photojournalism as a career then Lester's article has some key information to keep you out of any possible trouble with the law. However, if you are like me and just photograph for fun then most of the information is common sense with good judgment.