RE: [Leica] quiet cameras in cathedrals?

["Zeissler, Mitch" <mzeissle@gcipoa.gannett.com>]

Jem...

Man, who rattled your cage and took away the banana?  <<great big grin>>
Sorry I rubbed you the wrong way; evidently I did not provide enough detail.

For the record, I did not take any photos during the services I observed; I
merely noted that other tourists were escorted out when they did not follow
verbal requests by the church members.  Whenever I was specifically
requested to abstain from doing something [by *anyone* I came in contact
with, not just the religious community], I honored the request.  After all,
I was a guest in Austria, and I did not want to be considered an Ugly
American and be given the ol' heave-ho.

However, I feel compelled to point out that the history of photography is
rife with others that *have* taken a stand opposite yours and that many of
the Leica artists discussed in this forum have critically acclaimed works
that explore all avenues of life, including worship.

/Mitch Zeissler

- -----Original Message-----
From: Jem Kime [mailto:jem.kime@cwcom.net]
Sent: Thursday, September 14, 2000 3:58 AM
To: 'leica-users@mejac.palo-alto.ca.us'
Subject: RE: [Leica] quiet cameras in cathedrals?


Mitch,
I have to say that for anyone to have the insensitivity to want to 
photograph others in the act of worship beggars belief!
Where else might you expect to be able to walk into a meeting house and 
watch people involved in a private act and expect to photograph them?
Rotary clubs? Masonic societies? Moms and Toddlers? Alchoholics Anonymous?
Churches are open to welcome worshippers, they were never made or designed 
for tourists. I'm surprised they let you in at all during worship, look 
upon that as generosity on their part.
I can understand their reticence to let photographers take pictures for 
free, many of them only have  their historic beauty to capitalise on 
financially. If they can't sell you their photo postcards, guide book or 
permit to take pictures then what do they get out of your visit? Frequently 
nothing, and yet they face enormous bills trying to maintain the structure 
of these ancient buildings which people generally like to admire.
Jem