Taking Photos at The Gathering
GNI has a long and storied history and has seen much change in the past 31 years. Everything from the enactment of laws protecting the LGBT community from discrimination, decriminalization of homosexuality and even same-sex marriage are just a few of the stunning changes we have witnessed. Equally stunning are the changes brought about by technology and social media.
Good or bad, right or wrong, the world moves forward. As an organization, we need to move with it or be left behind. If you are a long-time member of GNI you have seen changes like our new (just released!) website, mobile apps to provide Gathering schedules and info, and new excursions, like white water rafting, incorporated into our events. We are also undergoing a review and revamp of our IT infrastructure which we believe will reduce our costs and streamline registration and check-in/out in the near future.
In the spirit of keeping our organization current, we've sometimes found the need to become more flexible as we look over policies that are at times over 20 years old. One such policy that has not kept up with the times is our Photo Policy. To that end, we have reviewed our policy and practices and have considered updates to these somewhat out-of-date rules.
The GNI Photo Policy was originally crafted when the only way to take a picture was with a bulky, chemical film camera and the only way to take video was with a shoebox-sized recorder. These were before the days of Facebook, Snapchat, “The Selfie,” etc. Today, anyone with a cell phone can easily take photos or hours of video. And at The Gathering, as we provide info and scheduling on a mobile app, it is not unusual to see someone using their phone, so it is virtually impossible to effectively police this. Therefore, we have revised the GNI Photo Policy as follows.
GNI Photo Policy
GNI recognizes that for various reasons certain individuals do not wish to be photographed in the nude or at GNI events. Therefore, the following policy has been adopted by the Board of Directors:
1. Those wishing to not be photographed must indicate so on their registration form. They will be issued a GNI Name Badge that is red, contained in a red holder, or be affixed with a red dot or red stripe (a “Red Tagged Badge”).
2. Photo or videographers must be mindful of members wearing Red Tagged Badges. You may not take their photo without their permission.
3. Photo or videographers must also be mindful of “No Photo” zones that may be posted in certain areas or at certain activities. Taking photos or videos of people in that area is not permitted.
4. Except during certain sanctioned photo opportunities, taking of photos or videos are prohibited at all times in the Dance Club.
5. Red Tagged Badge wearers may not participate in any high-profile contests, shows or activities where the primary activity involves being seen by others in such a way that it is impossible to segregate themselves from non-red-tagged badge wearers (e.g., on stage). If a Red Tagged Badge wearer does participate in such a contest or show, they are giving tacit approval to be photographed.
6. For smaller events and activities, especially those organized around photography, the organizer or facilitator may establish rules specific to that event or activity. Red Tagged Badge wearers should notify the organizer of their Red Tagged status so that they may inform the other participants and ensure that the rules are understood. In any case, it is strongly suggested that photographers proactively seek the consent of participants, regardless of Red Tagged Badge status.
7. Anyone willfully and knowingly violating this policy may be expelled from the event without refund.
We believe this revised policy addresses the important issues of privacy as well as balances the realities of the current state of technology.
We would like to hear your thoughts. Please send any comments or suggestions to Peter at vicepres.15@gaynaturists.org.
