What is a stringer? »

Simply, a stringer is a freelance journalist, photographer or who contributes reports or photos to a news organization on an on-going basis but is paid individually for each piece of published or broadcast work rather than a salary.

Many years ago, freelance newspaper reporters were paid by the amount of text that was published in a story, which was measured by a string, thus, they are commonly referred to as stringers. In our organization, our photographers sell breaking news video to local and national television stations.

What are the legalities in what you do? »

Simply stated, a photographer on public property can take photos or shoot video of anything they want for any reason. Public property includes parks, sidewalks and streets. A photographer can also take pictures or shoot video on private property that is open to the public, such as most businesses, malls, and shopping plazas. If a photographer is asked to stop photography or leave while on private property by an owner, employee, security guard, or posted signs that restrict photography, a photographer is obligated to honor that request. However, if the photographer is standing on public property, they can take pictures or shoot video of anything on private property.

Despite popular opinion, accidents, fires, crime scenes, residences, businesses, industrial areas, vehicles, aircraft, boats, trains, bridges, buildings, children, celebrities and law enforcement officials can be photographed. If a crime scene is established by law enforcement officials with yellow tape, vehicles, or personnel, a photographer may stand outside the perimeter or wherever the public is allowed to stand. A photographer cannot be singled out from a group of citizens because they have a camera.

Contrary to popular belief, people can be photographed or videotaped if they are in public view without their consent unless they are in private areas such as inside restrooms, changing areas, and doctors offices. Photographers do not have to explain why they are taking photos or shooting video, nor to do they have to disclose their identity unless a reasonable request is made by a law enforcement official. Private parties cannot detain photographers against their will, and can be subject to criminal charges such as false imprisonment or harassment. A citizen or security guard cannot confiscate a photographer’s equipment under any circumstances. If any use of force or threats are made, they can be liable for theft, robbery, and coercion. Law enforcement officials cannot confiscate equipment without a warrant and cannot detain a photographer unless a crime has been committed or suspected.

In order to protect the identity of victims in our videos, we never shoot video of deceased people and we make every attempt to avoid their face if the victim is seriously injured. We do not publish names or other identifiable information until officially released to the media by law enforcement, after next of kin have been notified. All persons interviewed in our videos were asked for permission and are not compensated. Suspects in crimes who may appear in our video are innocent into proven guilty.

Our videos are at times given to or purchased by law enforcement, fire departments and other professions in order to assist with investigations and training.

Remember, our videos are copyrighted and cannot be saved or used in any form without permission. We will pursue copyright infringement cases, prosecute to the fullest extent of the law, and seek civil damages.

Due to the dramatic content of some our videos, we simply ask you not to watch our videos if they upset you in any way.

The Photographers Right – Printable PDF file

Do you offer ride-a-longs?

Yes. Contact Ryan French at (813) 398-8264 or rfrench@tampabaymediagroup.com to schedule your ride-a-long. Ride-a-longs must sign a waiver and non-compete form.

If you have any general questions you want answered, feel free to post them below.