Taking pictures in laguna beach? 50$ per hour!

Regarding the last two photos in the article (couples amongst the waves) - I don't know the specifics of US municipal law, but does the council actually have any jurisdiction if the photos are taken below the high-tide mark?
 
A few years ago, rumors spread in the "urban exploration" community that the city of Gary, Indiana was charging $50 for a "photography permit", necessary if one wanted to come into town and shoot its myriad of abandoned buildings. Trouble was, no one with the city knew anything about it.

I suspect the $50 was an extra fee dreamed up by a local guy who was leading photo shoots in Gary. Pay for the photo tour - and pay some more for the fake permit. Ingenious.
 
I used to have relatives in the area. It's a very trendy beach community. It's in Orange County.

There is speculation on "another network" that those who simply use hand-held cameras and take unobtrusive shots will not be hassled.

Some spell the name Californica. (/me puts on an old RHCP album and cranks it!)
 
I had similar experiences in Beverley Hills at a family celebration!
WE were told that to snap pix in a park, reqd. a permit.
The fee was $750,for 1 hour.
Movie shoots only Hollywood could afford. $2500 per hour, plus insurance!
While I discussed this with Authorities, my girlfriend finished shoot!
We then crossed street to the house.
Yes! The family lived in Beverley Hills.
I worked in Laguna Beach.
I guess there are better beaches!
Corona Del Mar, Newport Beach and towards San Diego.
Best way, do not visit or waste your money.
It really a shame as its stunningly beautiful and truly great art dealers.
I guess what ya do about all the phone cameras..:angel:
 
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"However, if you plan a photo shoot in the City of Laguna Beach, whether commercial or non-commercial, be ready to file for a permit. Otherwise, you’ll need to pay a fine."

I think the issue here is defining what a photo shoot is. But the city I'm sure has no issue with writing the ticket and having you figure that out in front of a judge.

I'm sure this came about because the locals (rich) were sick and tired of the hoi poloi driving in from, gasp, inland areas with the sole intent to use 'their' (public) beach as a back drop.
In a way I don't blame them, places like this have become swarmed with photogs taking family/engagement/wedding/divorce/my kid graduated kindergarden shoots.
 
Laguna Beach does have quite a few scenic spots, especially at sunset, and there are always engagement photo shoots by the cliffs, or at 1000 Steps or the beach itself against a backdrop of huge boulders. One of our favorite brunch restaurants (Las Brisas) is located in Laguna Beach, and they happen to have a gazebo on the cliff overlooking the beach. So what I do after brunch is stand within the gazebo (private property) and shoot to my heart's content. Now, if I want to shoot down at the beach itself, I just drive a little farther south to Dana Point.
 
A few years ago my gf's niece asked if I would photograph their family at the Santa Ana train station. Just so they have some nice pics.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Ana_Regional_Transportation_Center

All I had w me was my Leica M and a 50mm lens. I was chased off by a city worker who said I needed a permit. For me, my little rf camera, one lens, two parents and a kid.

How much would that be?
http://www.ci.santa-ana.ca.us/parks/filmpermit/typesandfees.asp

$394 +$500 cleaning deposit.

Yeah....no. Went to Union Station in downtown LA which is a much better venue, and shot for free.
 
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