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Maker of Film in Yosemite Convicted

Discussion

4 replies
Posted by Preston Birdwell on November 30, 2007 at 3:19 PM
A man was convicted of making a commercial film in Yosemite without a permit. So, if you plan on doing commercial shooting in the parkbe sure you understand the law. The article from our Sonora paper can be found using the link below.

Guilty verdict in Yosemite filming case

-PB
Posted by Lon Overacker on November 30, 2007 at 9:11 PM
Hey Preston - thanks for posting this. Quite an interesting story.

I know that fed and state government regulations, policies, fees, guidelines, etc., etc., can be and are often over-reaching.... but clearly this guy wasn't following the rules. What really ruined any credibility for him was his comment:

"I really don't think that if a white man had done what I did they would have pursued it as far as they have. I really do believe that my civil rights were violated. It's just history repeating itself."

And then to find out he was ripping off the Indians by selling CD's of their music, well.... sorry dude.

Regarding permits for "commercial" filming and still photography, I think we as individual photographs (pro or otherwise) are still free to photograph in our National Parks without permits. I know this has been covered before in many forums, but is worth re-stating. From the nps.gov website, the policy for still photography reads:

"Still photographers require a permit when

1. the activity takes place at location(s) where or when members of the public are generally not allowed; or

2. the activity uses model(s), sets(s), or prop(s) that are not a part of the location’s natural or cultural resources or administrative facilities; or

3. Park would incur additional administrative costs to monitor the activity. "

I think that's pretty clear and good information to know if you're ever approached by a ranger.

Lon
Posted by Preston Birdwell on November 30, 2007 at 10:29 PM
Lon;

Definitely an interesting story. This guy certainly did not do himself any favors. It is opportunists like this guy who ruin it for those who do obey the rules.

Thanks for the restatement of the NPS policy. It is good info for us all.

-PB
Posted by Nelcha Cross on December 1, 2007 at 4:16 AM
LOL :toast: What can I say, Preston?
....as Dr. Phil says, "Stupid, ALWAYS leaves a trail.."
too bad that all brains aren't "topped off" with an ounce of common sense.
Thanks for sharing some Reality Entertainment while the
Hollywood writers are still on strike :argue:

Yes, thanks Lon, for reposting the Rules!
....and Preston, when have you scheduled the snow
for the lower elevations ?? Just trying to plan :biggrin:

in gratitude,
Nelcha
Posted by John W. Wall on December 4, 2007 at 6:28 PM
I feel sorry for what the guy's had to go through. This should have been a slap on the wrist at most. Check out some of his other video work here:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=178291215690964310&q=%22Native+America%22&hl=en