Consent to take pictures and videos at the activities run by Support Foundation and using it on its social media.
Obtaining consent for taking pictures and videos of anyone is crucial, and for people with disabilities, it’s even more important to ensure inclusivity and respect. Here are some key points we consider while taking pictures:
- Always ask for consent: Treat everyone, regardless of ability, with the same courtesy and ask for their permission before taking their picture or video. Explain your purpose for taking the photo and video and how it will be used.
- Respect autonomy: People with disabilities have the right to decide whether or not they want to be photographed. Don’t make assumptions about their comfort level or ability to understand your request. If they refuse to take pictures or videos, do not photograph them.
- Focus on individual preferences: Some people with disabilities may be comfortable with having their picture taken, while others may have specific concerns or triggers. Be sensitive to their individual needs and preferences.
- Consider accessibility: If someone uses assistive devices like a wheelchair or cane, ensure the photo captures them respectfully and doesn’t exclude or diminish their presence.
- Be mindful of context: Avoid taking pictures that could be seen as exploitative, patronizing, or reinforcing negative stereotypes about disability. Focus on portraying people with disabilities in a positive and empowering light.
- Offer alternative ways to participate: If someone declines to be photographed, offer alternative ways for them to be involved in the project, such as through interviews, written contributions, or participation in other activities.
Obtaining informed consent is essential for ethical photography. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you’re taking pictures in a way that respects people with disabilities and promotes inclusivity.
In Australia, the legal landscape around consent for taking pictures is more complex than a simple yes or no. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
General right to take pictures in public:
- Generally, it’s legal to take photographs in public places without asking for consent, including pictures of people. This applies to streets, parks, beaches, and any other publicly accessible spaces.
Privacy Act and personal information:
- Photos or videos are considered personal information under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) if your identity is clear or can be reasonably identified.
- However, the Act only applies to organizations and agencies, not individuals acting in their personal capacity. This means someone taking a picture of you in public wouldn’t typically breach the Privacy Act, even without your consent.
Specific limitations and considerations:
- Private property: The right to take pictures doesn’t extend to private property without the owner’s permission.
- Surveillance: Taking pictures for surveillance purposes, like following or harassing someone, could breach privacy laws or other regulations.
- Vulnerable groups: There might be additional considerations when photographing children, people with disabilities, or individuals in vulnerable situations. State or territory laws might offer specific protections in these cases.
- Commercial use: Using someone’s image for commercial purposes without their consent could raise privacy concerns and potentially lead to legal issues.
Recommendations:
- Although not legally required, it’s always good practice to ask for consent before taking someone’s picture, especially in private spaces or if you’re unsure about the situation.
- Be respectful of people’s privacy and avoid taking pictures that could be embarrassing or harmful.
- If someone objects to being photographed, respect their wishes and refrain from taking their picture.
Considering above mentioned information and guidelines, Support Foundation intends to use photos and videos of its clients engaging in activities run by Support Foundation to promote its services to the wider community. Support Foundation will always ask for verbal consent before taking the picture or video and will highlight the intentions behind the pictures. The participants have the choice to refuse to take the pictures however any pictures taken may be used in social media posts, websites, newsletters, and any other organizational materials. Participants can reach out to the management team if they have any concerns.
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