Yes, it’s been a year. Thirteen months actually, since city regulations on street photography went into effect. Picture New York received this invitation from the City Council, which we pass along to you. If you’ve had any interaction with law enforcement while taking photos in public space, this might be a good venue to talk about it, or at least submit a statement. YOU ARE INVITED!

The Committee on Cultural Affairs, Libraries, and International Intergroup Relations will hold a hearing on Thursday, September 24, 2009 at 1:00 PM, in Chambers at City Hall. The hearing is entitled “Oversight: Procedures for Filming and Photographing in Neighborhoods throughout New York City”.

We would like to invite you and/or your colleagues from Picture NY to testify at the hearing pertaining to the film and photography regulations that went into effect in August 2008. Witnesses bring a prepared statement (approximately 2-3 minutes) and then answer questions from Council Members. Please bring approximately 20 copies of your testimony. We hope you will be able to join us.

PLEASE NOTE: It is an open hearing. You will sign up when you arrive. The Sergeant of Arms will have slips for you to fill out. Please give yourself ample time because of security checks before entering City Hall.

The lady in the photo is getting a ticket for swimming at Brighton Beach after 6pm on August 26, 2009. The photographer had no problems. photo credit: Lisa Guido