[Angela]

Apart from reminding everyone that Remembrance Sunday is coming up, I was wondering about the ethics of taking photographs at a remembrance service. We have a few services taking place near me and one side of me says that it would be an opportunity to take some poignant photographs. The other side of me thinks that taking photos at such a service is a no-no.

I'm not old enough to remember the World Wars but showing my respect for those that lost their lives is hugely important to me, which is why I am torn, and I would really like to take photos that show my respect rather than photos for the sake of it.

Thoughts?

[fionaB]

what better way to remember than through photographs. it wont after all be very long before there is no one alive that remembers the war. i am not talking about children born during war time but people who took an active part wither it be thru fighting or being in the land army or munitions places here. So what will happen then when there is no one left, how else do we remember. think of all the war photographers who have given us the first hand knowledge that we have now........ i would imagine there was or is no worse time to be thinking of the morals of taking a picture, but if it wasnt for them we would have even less knowledge and understanding of what went on.
I say take your pictures, share them with others, and be proud that you are keeping a memory going for future generations who dont have the benefit of hearing first hand stories!

Fiona

[Sparhawk]

Originally Posted by Angela

Apart from reminding everyone that Remembrance Sunday is coming up, I was wondering about the ethics of taking photographs at a remembrance service. We have a few services taking place near me and one side of me says that it would be an opportunity to take some poignant photographs. The other side of me thinks that taking photos at such a service is a no-no.

I'm not old enough to remember the World Wars but showing my respect for those that lost their lives is hugely important to me, which is why I am torn, and I would really like to take photos that show my respect rather than photos for the sake of it.

Thoughts?

Hi Angela
I can see your peoblem respect v intreasting shots, why not contact your local servicemans club or approach one of the poppy sellers and see what they advise
Regards
Sparhawk

[Gary Bagshawe]

I think as long as you are respectful at the time it is ok.

[Foxesbrew]

I lived through the Second World War,everyone should remember that the whole population were involved from babies to the aged.death and injury visited all age groups.As a survivor i am very concious of the debt we owe to all who suffered wether they were in the services or civillians.I feel great pride in the achievements of our nation at that time but also sorrow and regret that so many paid the ultimate price. I see no disrespect in recording events on Remembrance Day provided it is done in arespectful manner.

[lolyton]

So long as you are not causing a nuisance of yourself i would be very surprised if anyone will care if you are taking pics or not. This is the proudest day of the year for a lot of the elderly and in this day and age they, i would have thought be more than happy that there are people still around who appreciate and take an interest in what they have acheived at great effort and cost for the rest of us.
Besides which without recording the day how do you think the bbc could broadcast from the services they do? From memory of watching the services many people normally smiled for the cameras, why should the same not happen for you?

[Angela]

Thanks guys! I'm going to the service anyway so I will take my camera and use my discretion on the day and take pictures if it feels appropriate.

[Rob Barron]

Seeing your message Angela, I gave a quick ring to an old friend who both fought in the war and is a member of the british Legion who do so much to help ensure these very special people who bought us freedom at such a terrible price are looked after and retain their dignity in old age.

I asked him what he thought and he was blunt and to the point: 'Go ahead, take the pictures with respect and ensure that anyone who doubts your motives is told: 'WE WILL REMEMBER THEM!'

I think that absolutely says it all :o)

Cheers,
Rob

[fionaB]

I was at the British legion last night as i play for their darts team, and i was basically told the same thing. i was positively encouraged to both go to the cenotaph and come back to the legion itself afterwards.


Fiona

[Angela]

Originally Posted by Rob Barron

'Go ahead, take the pictures with respect and ensure that anyone who doubts your motives is told: 'WE WILL REMEMBER THEM!'

I think that absolutely says it all :o)

Cheers,
Rob

It does say it all Rob, and brought a tear to my eyes this morning.

Thank you, and to you Fiona, for that.

[emmettleffel]

There is nothing disrespectful in taking photographs of these events. They are after all a record for the future.

[vicar]

Be restpectful, don't intrude on peoples grief and be polite. Take all all the pictures you want, and if there is any British Legion club near you, see if they want some of your pictures(If you took some of their members).

[fionaB]

hm not sure if the chairwoman of our British legion would want my pics............... i keep beating her at darts! lol