Just curious: Is it okay to take photos of players/coaches/fans during the National Anthem? Many times it seems like there could be some good shots as people stand at attention before a sporting event to abserve the National Anthem -- especially with Youth Sports. I know that everyone is supposed to be still so that is why I was wondering if it's okay to take photos during this time or if it's really not a good thing to do. What's been your experience.
You are recording history, patriotic spirit, people in a special moment, etc. All worthy of a capture. I am as patriotic as the next person, probably more so. I see no problem with it at all.
I do it once in a while, but only if I can be fairly quick and discreet about it. Only exception might be for a really special event, then I'm all over it. It's part of documenting the event.
Ok, that is what I was thinking too. I guess everyone will have a different opinion about it; some won't think I am being respectful and some probably won't care. It's interesting to see people's opinions.
That's a good question. I've wondered about that myself. I'll bust off a few rounds outside in the daylight every now and then. I'm a little reluctant to fire off four AB-800's in the gym though
I am former military, so I always stop and render respect.
It really annoys me when watching a sports event on TV to see all of the photogs frantically moving around during the anthem. It sometimes appear that some use the time of calm to get somewhere else while everyone else is still. I say hold your relative spot at the start of the anthem, it is OK to shoot but don't move around more than necessary.
I learned a lesson on this shooting HS football, be in position before the anthem starts for the shot you want before it ends, turn and take the shot as the last words are sung. Our guys always raised their helmuts on the last line and it was a great shot.
Also former military and agree it's disrespectul to ignore it.
Yup, sure do ... hat off and try to be invisible doing so. I too am a veteran and have found you can record the event and also be respectful. In fact, for some teams, anthem photos are one of my biggest sellers especially when they include a BG of a venue for a championship event they don't normally have the opportunity to play in. Quite often, parents/athletes will remark, "When did you take that? I didn't see you do that."
Last NHL game I went to I was standing there but the photographer beside me fired off a couple shots (total of about 10 seconds) and then stood for the rest of the song...I see nothing wrong with it as long as youre not moving or taking up the whole song
Wow, that's a tough question. As a Flag waving American I scrutinize what people do during the anthem. I think if you are covering the event as a professional it is okay to move and shoot. I have seen some very memorable captures, taken during the anthem, which I have thoroughly enjoyed.
I think it comes down to your actions during the event.
I usually position myself in a place where I can shoot during the National Anthem, but do it in a way as not to be a distraction. I have gotten some "stink eye" looks in the past, but I agree, it's part of the event, and you can get some really great shots.
Don't become a distraction, and be respectful at the same time.
If you're working I feel it's ok. Like mentioned it's part of the game and I like to show the players showing respect for our country. I feel a little bad because I love my country but I'm also doing a job so I have to get the job done.
Now if you're in the crowd I guess it depends on how you feel and what the people around you think.
