NYC proposes $300 non-refundable fee for some photography shoots

[John NYC]

Read about it here and write to the Mayor's office for film and television broadcasting before June 1 (or apply to attend the hearing) if you are interested in opposing this rule:

http://www.nyc.gov/html/film/html/news/040110_application_fee_proposal.shtml

In short, if you are going to be shooting with anything more than a camera and a tripod and/or you are going to "exert exclusive use of space" of public walkways, then you will need to apply for a permit with a $300 fee. The kicker? If your permit is denied for any reason, the city keeps the $300 and you don't get to do your shoot.

EDIT: It also states if you are required to get the permit/pay the fee, you must have proof of $1,000,000 in liability insurance. It is obvious this is aimed at TV and Film and large commercial shoots, but the fact of the way it is worded, it will affect a two person fashion shoot with one reflector on a stand.

[Michael Cienfuegos]

Sounds like another sneaky way for the city to relieve people of their money.:(

[sidmac]

Do what film crews do. Photograph in Toronto

[Daniel Stone]

that's why people have started having assistants hand holding packs and lights. this way they don't have any equipment on the ground ;). and the photographer uses pocketwizards, so they aren't "tied" to the assistant with the light pack/head :).

there are ways around this stupid law. its just dumbass politicians thinking of new ways to shove it to the creatives in their disctricts. utter b.s. if you ask me.

but what's new with politics? especially in NY?

-Dan