Police and Photographers in Long Beach

ugh...as if they don't have enough to do...
Sandy

Some of that almost makes sense...and probably does to someone. But this part is actually comical :

McDonnell says that while there is no police training specific to determining whether a photographer's subject has "apparent esthetic [sic] value," officers make such judgments "based on their overall training and experience" and will generally approach photographers not engaging in "regular tourist behavior."

I certainly hope they make all of their officers take a couple of classes on photography and photo history so they can judge aesthetic value. Oh, and apparently if you don't act like every other tourist, you can't take photos.

Once again BIG BROTHER trying to control our activities. What would happen if you wore camo clothing while photographing the Osprey nest on the power line towers? Sadly I do understand why they have to be cautious, but provide proper training to the officers.

I guess if I went there I would end up in trouble because I try not to act like a tourist when I am out with my camera.

"regular tourist behavior"

So, wear your plaid shorts, dab that sun block on your nose and put on that "I Love Long Beach" t-shirt - and everything should be alright!

One thing to keep in mind: There is a surprising number of predators that find a particular appeal in candid photos of sparsely dressed youngsters. Public beaches could easily be a happy hunting ground.