Legal Question in Civil Rights Law in New York

magazine photographer taking photos of individual

Is it legal for a magazine photographer to take a photo of an individual walking on the street and then inserting that photo in a magazine without asking permission of that person? The person's friend accidentally saw it in the magazine and informed her. Can she sue the magazine? The photo related to different hairstyles of people in New York City and her photo showed one of the many hairstyles. In the article her photo was not referred to at all, just a general statement was made about these being many hairstyles that can be observed.


Asked on 6/26/05, 6:02 am

3 Answers from Attorneys

Brendan Chao Brendan Chao - Attorney & Counselor at Law

Re: magazine photographer taking photos of individual

In order to establish liability under New York Civil Rights Law, you must demonstrate each of four elements: (i) usage of your name, portrait, picture, or voice, (ii) within the state of New York, (iii) for purposes of advertising or trade, (iv) without your written consent. Feel free to call and discuss further.

Read more
Answered on 6/27/05, 5:44 am
Stephen Loeb Law Office of Stephen R. Loeb

Re: magazine photographer taking photos of individual

Based upon the facts you provide a successful lawsuit against the magazine is not likely.

Should you like to discuss this or any other legal matter, you can e-mail me for more information about low cost face-to-face, on-line, or a telephone consultation with a lawyer in our office.

Read more
Answered on 6/27/05, 6:22 am
Mark S. Moroknek Kelly & Curtis, PLLC.

Re: magazine photographer taking photos of individual

Generally not, if the story was about a matter of public interest and not an advertisement or

in support of a position or product.

NY Civil Rights Law 55 et al. provides a cause of action where a photo or a person's name is used without permission in support of commercial

advertising.

Read more
Answered on 6/27/05, 6:55 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Civil Rights Law questions and answers in New York