Cameras at Munches

15 May 2006

Quote by chesty_bird
Pictures arent too bad if taken with no1 in the background and then they should be sent to the peeps on them for their use only
General clicking of the cam should not be allowed in any circumstances......i for one dont like my picture being taken as i dont know whose hands they will fall into
chesty
xxxx

what background on yr pics....the foreground is always rather full with drinks holders etc.....
RWL
xxx

16 May 2006

How come there's no 'newbies' in this thread??
I'd be interested to hear what those who are new to munches think about cameras being there.... and about having their pics taken, even if it is 'just socially' ? Is it offputting? does it add to the nerves? would it make you uncomfortable?
and particularly when we're on about the 'official photographer' idea - its all very well for 'us' who willknow the person who takes on this honour if it happens... but 'noobs' wont, so , any thooughts??? confused

16 May 2006

Quote by H-x
I, too, have a monopod, best used with a spotting scope rather than a camera...
what?
I go bird watching, ok!!!
H.x

So do I!

16 May 2006

Very good discussion imo.
I am however a bit disappointed in how little trust we have in one another and that whilst we may consider ourselves discreet, wo don't consider others that way dunno

Perhaps I'm reading between the lines but it just occured to me in reading all the posts.
I don't mind having my phtoo taken, I rarely pose because I hate photos but that's just me. If others are uncomfortable then perhaps a official photographer is the way to go, but lets face it you aren't ever going to please everyone and you still risk getting caught in the background.
Cx

16 May 2006

Quote by Darkfire
How come there's no 'newbies' in this thread??
I'd be interested to hear what those who are new to munches think about cameras being there.... and about having their pics taken, even if it is 'just socially' ? Is it offputting? does it add to the nerves? would it make you uncomfortable?
and particularly when we're on about the 'official photographer' idea - its all very well for 'us' who will know the person who takes on this honour if it happens... but 'noobs' wont, so , any thooughts??? :

I'm sorry I've only read the start of this thread the other day and I haven't read the intervening bits. I don't like the idea of an official photographer - in fact if it was down to me cameras at munches would be banned. The chances are that whoever has a camera in their hands is also pissed and some people really (REALLY!) don't want their photo taken.
Killjoy I maybe but I can also enjoy meself without having to have it photographically recorded. dunno

16 May 2006

Quote by Darkfire
How come there's no 'newbies' in this thread??
I'd be interested to hear what those who are new to munches think about cameras being there.... and about having their pics taken, even if it is 'just socially' ? Is it offputting? does it add to the nerves? would it make you uncomfortable?
and particularly when we're on about the 'official photographer' idea - its all very well for 'us' who will know the person who takes on this honour if it happens... but 'noobs' wont, so , any thooughts??? :

our first munch we were sat in the corner all night until a lovely lady introduced herself & told us to start mixing. wink

Had that many drinks down my neck as I was that nervous, I can't remember seeing any cameras redface

Seriously though, I don't mind having my photo taken if i was asked. At a munch we are all fully clothed & in pics it just looks as though we're out with other friends. If the pics were taken at an afters party though I would say NO!! I think there's a time & a place for thoughs sort of pics! You have to consider your professional roles & how the pics would affect that if anyone got hold of them.

16 May 2006

I actually agree with RWL on this one too (tho don't tell him i said that lol), me personally do not mind having my pic taken and have never had any problems with it, in my experiance people have always come and asked me if its ok first, and if i just so happened to be in the back ground when taking a pic of someone else.....well thats their fault for standing to close lol

But that aside i do understand that some people may not want to be around the many snap happy people that tend to be popping up more and more at each munch so maybe an appointed photographer may be a good idea :thumbup:

16 May 2006

Quote by Darkfire
How come there's no 'newbies' in this thread??
I'd be interested to hear what those who are new to munches think about cameras being there.... and about having their pics taken, even if it is 'just socially' ? Is it offputting? does it add to the nerves? would it make you uncomfortable?
and particularly when we're on about the 'official photographer' idea - its all very well for 'us' who will know the person who takes on this honour if it happens... but 'noobs' wont, so , any thooughts??? :

We are 'newbies' wave

.....Well to munches anyway lol

We havn't been to a munch yet (saying 'yet' as we plan too later) and regards to photo's being taken we think it would be ok, even if we are in the background, because it's really a social event and there is nothing else going on, everyone is fully clothed and enjoying a few drinks.
As for an 'official photographer' then thats not a problem either. I would guess that all the information leading up to the munch from the forum would include who is going to be the photographer for the evening so that everyone knows who it is, even if the newbies don't know the person it's going to be someone that the munch organisers and the rest of the people going can vouch for.
They could also wear a hat with 'Official Photographer' on it :lol:
Hope this helps

16 May 2006

The point that Calista made about trust is an interesting one.
There are people I've trusted in the past to take photographs at events (not only munches) and to pass on the entire set that I appeared on (if I'm not on them, fine). This has not happened and I've been passed one or two photographs with subsequent photos appearing in my inbox via other people who didn't even take the photos, sometimes, they weren't even there!
I've had incident where I've demanded the photo be deleted from the camera and have insisted on deleting them myself, however, through a friend I have been in the situation where it's been mentioned they still have pictures of me on their pc. Not a happy bunny.
So when it comes down to it... in a room full of over 100 people there might be just under half I'd trust to take a picture of me on a night out. Let's not forget the nature of the site we're on and the potential bribary factor (paranoid? moi? :shock: ). What if anyone is allowed to take photos and there are flashes going off here there and everywhere. They then proposition you (not specifically aimed at anyone) and you politely decline.... they have photos of you with swingers badges on, usernames and lets face it... some of the names are googlebrities already. confused

Not that difficult if you're of spiteful revenge nature like one of my ex's.
I'm totally in favour of airing on the side of caution and banning cameras at munches regardless of how many people I personally trust. The likelyhood is, the folks I trust will have photos of me from elsewhere anyway, and more than likely will see me other times than at munches.

16 May 2006

Quote by Calista
Very good discussion imo.
I am however a bit disappointed in how little trust we have in one another and that whilst we may consider ourselves discreet, wo don't consider others that way Perhaps I'm reading between the lines but it just occured to me in reading all the posts.
I don't mind having my phtoo taken, I rarely pose because I hate photos but that's just me. If others are uncomfortable then perhaps a official photographer is the way to go, but lets face it you aren't ever going to please everyone and you still risk getting caught in the background.
Cx

Dont quite agree..i think that from the discussion so far a great deal of trust is evident within the munch community, reflected by the fact that there have been no major issues / bad examples of photo abuse so far.
Two things i would say are
- as was pointed out to me, in a number of posts saying what an interesting thread this is, is that this thread is not so much a cry for assistance but more a "timely reminder" for us all to be vigilant and aware of potential damaging events that would/could jeopordise the whole munch ethos..and i personallly am really cheered by the quality and thoughtfullness of the replies so far
- secondly, if any newbies are reading this, then don tbe put off by this disccusion. munches are by far the safest and most valuable way of gettingto meet other like minded people in a protected environment...all thes posts show are that we all care and have a great regard for each others privacy
RWL
xx

16 May 2006

If photographed at a munch, you are likely to be wearing a badge that will identify the website. If you are only in the background, but recognisable, then the person in the foreground will be wearing a badge that will identify the site and you will therefore be linked to that site. If you prefer not to risk your photo being associated with a swinging website, even if you are fully clothed, then it would probably be wise not to be photographed at all.
Once a photograph of you has been taken, you have no control of what happens to that photo tomorrow, next week or in 10 years time. Today's respected member (read possible official photographer) can be tomorrow's disgruntled banned member, still with possession of a lot of photographs taken at munches or socials.

Quote by Calista
I am however a bit disappointed in how little trust we have in one another and that whilst we may consider ourselves discreet, wo don't consider others that way Perhaps I'm reading between the lines but it just occured to me in reading all the posts.

It is only a couple of months since one ex-member from this site had a photo sent to his place of work by, presumably, another member or ex-member of this site. The history of the political intrigues of swinging websites over the last few months should be a warning to us all.
If cameras are to be allowed at munches, and I donâ€™t think they should be, then there should be a clearly defined area where cameras, including camera phones, are not allowed under any circumstances so that those people who do not wish to appear in any way whatsoever in a photograph can relax.

16 May 2006

ok everyone, i started this thread yesterday and the speed and number of replies on here means that a good representative selection of site members have now had their say on this thorny matter.
So, where do we go from here?
Well, as the thread starter, shortly i wll write what i believe to be a conclusive post on the subject. But before that i would ask one more thing.
So far, plenty of new and established members have replied and so too have a few mods... but we have heard nothing from the site owners or adminstrators.
In the event of a photo abuse incident at a site approved munch, the site itself could be brought into disrepute. Surely this can have an impact on the site and its future policy towards munches. What opinions do you guys have on this subject?
Over to you
RWL

16 May 2006

NN - u actually agreed with me on something hahahahhahahahhahahahaha
RWL:

16 May 2006

I saw the 'wordspreading' of an 'official' phototgrapher at a naturist club once. He didn't last long. Being almost unknown by the majority of people in the club, but having beguiled the owners, he expected a lot and very soon. Which most people were unwilling to accept. So it would need to be a wise and trusting choice for an official photographer.
Incidentally are the new influx of snappers recogniced as regulars or are they also new to the scene?

16 May 2006

Quote by northwest-cpl
If cameras are to be allowed at munches, and I donâ€™t think they should be, then there should be a clearly defined area where cameras, including camera phones, are not allowed under any circumstances so that those people who do not wish to appear in any way whatsoever in a photograph can relax.

Thats a good idea but.....
What about those who have a phone that just happens to have a camera as part of it and also have babysitters at home and the phone is the only link to them ??
What are they to do ?
And dont say go buy a cheap phone specifically for munches because that is just more expense and to some people one that cannot be absorbed..

16 May 2006

I'm by no means shite stirring, however it has been mentioned before and quite rightly so that admin should at least be giving us there view on this since ultimately munches advertised on this site, will be attended by memebers of this site. Now sorry if I'm overly concerned for no reason but non the less I am wondering what is the legal standing for them when it comes to assuring our safety/confidentuallity (you know what I mean I just can't find the right word some one with wider vocabullary feel free to step in) at said events. Since for most it is now a pay site ? Our posts are supossed to be copyrighted........................now are our faces subject to the same thing ?

16 May 2006

Quote by redwine_lover
NN - u actually agreed with me on something hahahahhahahahhahahahaha
RWL:

it'll never happen again lol

16 May 2006

Quote by NWC
If cameras are to be allowed at munches, and I donâ€™t think they should be, then there should be a clearly defined area where cameras, including camera phones, are not allowed under any circumstances so that those people who do not wish to appear in any way whatsoever in a photograph can relax.

at one of the yourkshire munches, taking photographs was restricted to one area, downstairs in the main public area of the pub. ((( we had the room upstairs ))) i think it was marcuso who ensured that everyone was asked if they wanted to be in photos, and if they did, to head downstairs. that seems the best way to be even handed about the whole thing. i don't think cameras should be banned outright, cos we're adults who should be able to decide for ourselves. of course, we have to absolutely respect the wishes of those who don't even want to risk appearing on camera in any way, shape or form.
informing everyone that there are designated areas seem to be the best way forward, and enforcing that rule where necessary?
neil x x x ;)

16 May 2006

Quote by Steve_Mids
What about those who have a phone that just happens to have a camera as part of it and also have babysitters at home and the phone is the only link to them ??
What are they to do ?

Come equipped with rubber gloves to retrieve their phone after they get seen using it to take pictures? cool

16 May 2006

I've highlighted this thread to Admin, but I feel they may not respond directly.
Firstly, they have never attended a Munch or met any (or very few) members and couldn't give a balanced point on something they have never experienced. Their 'feelings' on the matter would be just that, feelings.
As for how accountable they are for pics taken at munches - probably just below zero. Are we talking about pics being posted on here or ANY pics taken and used/distributed anywhere? Difficult to lay anything at their door as they just manage the website, we as members self-police our own functions.
My feelings are the same, whether you read them under the banner of member or Moderator, I don't really mind pics at a Munch. It is the more intimate pics taken at private events I would be more concerned about getting into the wrong hands.
Mal
wink

16 May 2006

Quote by Mal
I've highlighted this thread to Admin, but I feel they may not respond directly.
Firstly, they have never attended a Munch or met any (or very few) members and couldn't give a balanced point on something they have never experienced. Their 'feelings' on the matter would be just that, feelings.
As for how accountable they are for pics taken at munches - probably just below zero. Are we talking about pics being posted on here or ANY pics taken and used/distributed anywhere? Difficult to lay anything at their door as they just manage the website, we as members self-police our own functions.
My feelings are the same, whether you read them under the banner of member or Moderator, I don't really mind pics at a Munch. It is the more intimate pics taken at private events I would be more concerned about getting into the wrong hands.
Mal

Mal
thanks for your comments and would say:
Nothing is being laid at their door with this thread.....but the mere fact that a munch bears their name should give them an interest and most importanly an input into this subject matter. if it was my website, i would def want to have an input. And i am sure that most members would have contributed to the debate would be interested in hearing their opinions even if they are merely "feelings"
They dont just manage the website...they own it (dont they?) and make profit from it, so again, if it were my website, i would be interested in a subject that could have an effect on my business
As for never attending a munch - no comment
Finally, thanks for making admin aware, from my point of view, it was a courtesy to them to be made aware of the subject...whether they reply or not is irrelevent, but at least they were asked!!
RWL

16 May 2006

Quote by sheddy
Now sorry if I'm overly concerned for no reason but non the less I am wondering what is the legal standing for them when it comes to assuring our safety/confidentuallity (you know what I mean I just can't find the right word some one with wider vocabullary feel free to step in) at said events. Since for most it is now a pay site ? Our posts are supossed to be copyrighted........................now are our faces subject to the same thing ?

16 May 2006

I think that the owners and operators of the site fulfill the requirements of maintaining a web site, but not the activities of its users. So if I used Tesco as my dial up I can't expect it to make sure my kids cross the road safely, if you see what I mean.
I think your status at an adult event is the same as going to the Proms or Wembley. If you appear briefly on screen, can you claim any royalties if your mug shot appears on the Ten oclock news? Equally can you insist that ITV or the Beeb fuzz out your mug? It may be doable, but probably drawing ever more attention to yourself.
However accepting that someone is allowed to collect photos of a specific nature (and subsequent application) of willing or unsuspecting subjects, involves individual choice and responsibility. How and to whom to you go to for compensation if later in life an unfortunate photo turns up which you would rather not have had taken?

17 May 2006

Quote by redwine_lover
thanks dawn..
u seasoned mods do have experience of sites longer than some of us, so always appreciate the voice of experience"!!!!!!!!!!!

Is that seasoned as in a piece of hard old wood or a bit o' salt and pepper?? :giggle:

17 May 2006

Quote by westerross

thanks dawn..
u seasoned mods do have experience of sites longer than some of us, so always appreciate the voice of experience"!!!!!!!!!!!

Is that seasoned as in a piece of hard old wood or a bit o' salt and pepper?? :giggle:
Not for me to say...now u wouldnt want me to incur the wrath of dawnie ...would you?
RWL

17 May 2006

Quote by redwine_lover
Pictures arent too bad if taken with no1 in the background and then they should be sent to the peeps on them for their use only
General clicking of the cam should not be allowed in any circumstances......i for one dont like my picture being taken as i dont know whose hands they will fall into
chesty
xxxx

what background on yr pics....the foreground is always rather full with drinks holders etc.....
RWL
xxx
oi cheeky :giggle:

18 May 2006

Quote by couple_ne2000
Now sorry if I'm overly concerned for no reason but non the less I am wondering what is the legal standing for them when it comes to assuring our safety/confidentuallity (you know what I mean I just can't find the right word some one with wider vocabullary feel free to step in) at said events. Since for most it is now a pay site ? Our posts are supossed to be copyrighted........................now are our faces subject to the same thing ?

If there were any privacy laws in the UK, then the site MAY have had a responsibility to protect our privacy in this type of situation. As there are no privacy laws currently in the UK I don't think we would have any protection at all.
Les x
There are no 'privacy laws' but there are laws that protect privacy. Pics on the street are allowed, if your in them bad luck. Pics in a private house without your permission are not. The trouble is where the line is drawn and every case (there have been some) is judge on it's own merit. That puts munches firmly in the 'who knows' band. Is it public? Is it private? What is it reasonable to expect? Is no camara a condition of entry?

18 May 2006

ok its time to close this debate..we have had a wealth of replies and comments..all appreciated...i will be submitted my own personall summary of this thread in a separate thread so suggest the mods lock this now as any future comments can be made on the new thread
RWL
PS..at last i have made 500 posts in over two years hahahhaha