mara- It's true that they changed the policy back to permitting photographs on the subway a little while ago, after trying to make it illegal dodn't work out too well, though I RARELY see people taking pictures, and I ride it several times a day, daily.
I do see tourists do it, and it generally irritates people sitting nearby who get flashed in the face because everything's at such close quarters.

This is an interesting thread.
I also believe those of us who live in places with high tourist traffic, combined with high security risks (like NYC) have a completely different perception of the need to protect our own privacy.

Others who have very strong beliefs regarding their universal "rights" to take pictures of people in public without sensitivity to the privacy of others, might live in a place where they don't have to be on the receiving end very often, if at all.

Ironic that the police are now asking for any images taken in connection with the recent bombings, on phones or otherwise, to be submitted to their website.....www.police.uk

HotAlex, I missed the post in which Spygirl reported that "we" had prevailed in Iraq. I'm delighted to hear it, of course - but was it the Duke of Wellington after Waterloo who said "another victory like that, and we're done for"?

In most Western countries, you have no right to privacy if you are in a public place. Others may photograph you if they so desire. That's why it's called a PUBLIC PLACE. If you don't like being photographed, you should stay away from public places.

Look at it this way: If you are truly in a place where you can expect privacy, you can undress. Can you undress on a public street? No? Then it's not a private place, is it? Therefore if someone wishes to photograph you there, he is well within his rights in doing so. If you don't wish to be photographed, go someplace where you can undress without being arrested.

Neil-Oz, you're a disgrace to the awesome support Aussies have provided in Iraq. As usual, your blatherings are <b>way</b> off topic. Get off the sauce, boy!

I think this conversation is losing its focus..we are talking about photographing MINORS. Is obvious you can't claim privacy in the streets if you are an adult(ask any celebrity about that), the thing is very different with kids which is what we were talking about.

I think 100 pictures of other people &amp; their kids is excessive.