I spent last night walking around Pittsburgh working on city-night photography. Pittsburgh police officers approached me asking me not to use a tripod do to it being a security threat. - Craig Photography: City Night Photography

In reference to Mr. Craig’s experience with his tripod, Michael Weir asks…

When is it OK to allow fear to publicly override profession?

I’d ask a more specific question. When is it OK to allow fear to override the civil liberties?

Were these officers suggesting that it’s against the law to take photographs on the street with a tripod? Or that tripods are themselves illegal in Philadelphia? I find both suggestions absurd. Absurd of course doesn’t mean it’s not true.

I think the most plausible answer here is that someone, the officers possibly or more likely a bureaucrat,  is taking their job a little too seriously. Making arbitrary security rules, just to hear their own voice. Shameful behavior on whoever it is.

Trackposted to The Pink Flamingo, Perri Nelson’s Website, Leaning Straight Up, Allie Is Wired, CommonSenseAmerica, Republican National Convention Blog, and Big Dog’s Weblog, thanks to Linkfest Haven Deluxe.