No go zones

Victor Habbick is a photographer, artist, designer and member of ePHOTOzine's Pro critique team. His work is published world wide and he supplies stock markets on a regular basis. His advice will range from kit choices and editing software to supplying agencies and finding inspiration. He describes his work as having commercial sensibilities with a touch of the surreal and you can find out more about this by visiting his ePHOTOzine profile or by visiting his personal website: Victor Habbick.

Here's his tip:

"It is a sad truth that photographers are having a tough time when it comes to photographing people or some building landmarks so watch yourself. It's a PC world that has some people pointing the figure when photographing in parks and the like especially when there are children about. Yes it is becoming out of hand and nothing is going to change any time soon.

With most stock libraries are becoming so uptight regarding people shots that unless you have a signed model release of each and every person in your shot, forget it. More and more buildings are becoming a no go zone and require you to get a property release if you intend to publish or supply an agency with it. So do not waste your time unless you can obtain these forms for commercial and professional release.

With a subject like this which was taken from the CN Tower in Canada the only way I could have it accepted into stock was to carefully remove all logos, signs and business names from the buildings in question.  I have to do this as many companies will now sue if there names are mis-represented or associated with anything not of their choosing.  People are the same case unless you get model releases do not even attempt to sell them."