Bit Revolver

The two filmmakers seen here set up their camera and tripod nearby while I was relaxing in Central Park last Sunday. Sheep Meadow was full of frisbee tossers, wiffle ball games, and sunbathers on this unusually spring-like October afternoon, and the two began to take some panning shots of the scenery. I myself had already shot over 2 GB worth of photos of the surrounding activity.

Within seconds, two bicycle cops swooped in from either side and began questioning the pair. The female officer asked whether the two had a permit from the Mayor’s Office of Film, Theatre & Broadcasting. They replied that they did not, and the officer told them that The City of New York requires them to obtain a permit in order to use their tripod in a public place. I was able to snap a few shots of the scene before the officers instructed the filmmakers to put their tripod away, then quickly disappeared.

I spoke briefly with the pair, who were quite dejected, but said they would rather comply than argue with the NYPD. We talked about the MOFTB’s proposed rules on film and photography permits, which to the best of my knowledge are still under review.

Many feel that the first amendment rights of amateur photographers and filmmakers in New York City are in serious jeopardy as of late. The proposed rules are broad, restrictive, and ill-advised. At this time I have been unable to locate any current laws on record that prohibit the use of a tripod in the manner I have described here, so I cannot say with certainty whether these police officers acted incorrectly. New York City’s 311 information line forwarded my phone call to the MOFTB, whose permit office did not answer. I sent an e-mail inquiry requesting information, and am awaiting a reply.