Photography May Cause Concerns

In his blog entry, “Scared of social media? Follow Batman’s lead,” Mack D. Male (Mastermaq) wrote about the fear of social media and described something he experienced at Century Hospitality Group’s new establishment, Hundred Bar Kitchen. Mack’s concern was that he was questioned about taking photographs inside the restaurant without permission, and he identified management’s apparent lack of familiarity with social media. The photos were for Sharon Yeo’s review, “Strikingly Pedestrian: Hundred Bar Kitchen.”

Mig14 responded with “Social Media: Not Everyone’s Cup of Tea ,” supporting management’s right to question the photography. She wrote, “If a business does not want me to come in and take pictures, or make a recording, or live blog my experience, that’s also their prerogative…. The BUSINESS has the right to refuse media (any kind of media) from producing content about that business without permission.”

As I read these posts, one point stands out, and it is not specific to social media. While they certainly want the public to visit, Hundred is still private property and management does have the right to dictate what activities may or may not occur on the premises. I support the above comments of Mig14. There are a lot of things that would be unacceptable, and signs are not going to be posted to address them all. Taking photos of your table and guests may be generally acceptable in some restaurants, but it still requires management concurrence. Yes, circumstances may imply it is acceptable, and servers may assist you taking photos of guests at your table, or you might be in a private area. Other may be doing it around you. However, I believe you should make sure it is okay and just ask for permission. I appreciate that Mack has reasons for not wanting to announce his purpose in advance, but I doubt that mainstream media would just take photos without it being  breaking news story.

Privacy issues are important to businesses. If other patrons are concerned about their photo being taken (whether it is happening or not), it can result in lost revenues when they leave or fail to return. What would be the response if an inopportune photo were to be taken and published? Management has an obligation to protect themselves from possible losses (risk management) and should be given the opportunity to address concerns in advance. When asked, and the purpose explained, a positive response would be expected (although not guaranteed). Management might just want to ensure that other patrons will not be photographed. That was the only concern when I recently sought permission to videotape in the restaurant area of one of our fine hotels.

It is difficult to stop after-the-fact reporting in social media or elsewhere, but something to keep in mind is that a return visit may not be allowed. The open invitation to the general public to visit the establishment may be revoked to an individual.

For those interested in this story and further exposure to Mack’s passion for social media, the Mastermaq blog is one to follow. Mig14 will be added to my list, and Sharon Yeo’s ‘Only Here for the Food’ whets my appetite.

 

**This message is an expression of the author’s personal opinions. The companies represented by Antony (Tony) Ratcliffe of Ratcliffe Wealth & Risk Management, as an independent insurance agent/broker in Alberta, Canada, will not be held liable in any way for the opinions expressed herein.