If you’re legally present on a public street or sidewalk, you can legally photograph anything in plain view. (This includes children and crime victims… but just because it’s legal doesn’t mean it’s always a good idea.)
- If law enforcement engages you, ask whether you are free to go; if so, then move out of the way.
- Don’t interfere with a crime scene or traffic.
- Don’t record private conversations or telephone calls (unless all parties agree).
- Do obey any rules that property owners set.
Here’s everyone’s favorite Pennsylvania newspaperman fresh from the afterlife, scolding a bad cop and teaching a little girl about her rights.