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Camera-phone dos and don'ts

Camera-phones are all around us, but we're still learning to properly harness their usage.

In other countries, cases have been reported of camera-phones being used for peeping and other unsavory acts. It's no surprise then that some companies here, including the Raffles hotel chain and heath club operator Planet Fitness, have banned them from changing rooms.

Such rules will become increasingly difficult to enforce as camera-enabled phones become more and more prevalent. To prevent these devices from becoming a source of paranoia, we should all learn some basic rules of etiquette.

That's why CNETAsia has pieced together some guidelines for users here:


Minding your camera manners
• DO keep the lens cover closed whenever you're not taking pictures, if your camera-phone comes with such an option.

• DO point the lens away from others when you're using the phone, preferably at the ground.

• DO seek consent before you take shots of strangers. The last thing you should do is to suddenly or stealthily sneak up and snap away.

• DO make sure you have the subject's knowledge before mass-mailing his picture. Consent for a shot isn't equivalent to permission for publishing it.

• DO check with the relevant authorities before using your camera-phone in sensitive areas. Photography isn't allowed in some places, such as military compounds, for reasons of privacy or national security.

• DON'T go snapping pictures with your camera-phones on planes. Even though you're not making calls, most phones automatically search for available networks once they're turned on. This may disrupt navigational equipment during flight.

• DO respect different cultures in different countries. If you're a visiting tourist, you may be expected to pay someone to take his photograph.

• DO turn off your camera-phone's flash function (if available) in places when it could be disruptive or distracting. You wouldn't want zookeepers or colleagues yelling at you.

• DO be mindful of your surroundings. As you're taking pictures with your camera-phone, you may be blocking others just looking for a good view.

• DON'T send photo messages to all your friends, unless you know it will appeal to them. As much as you're proud of them, not everyone wants to see your mundane pictures. Remember, recipients often have to pay to download MMS messages.

Finally, a little bit of common sense goes a long way. DO exercise it.

 

 

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