BillT: "Rules schmules! Forgive my seeming arrogance, but those with a reasonable respect for rules had better stick to taking pictures at the zoo, and only from designated areas. Just when did photographers stop packing Cajones? Back in the good old days it was clearly apparent to my impressionable young self that the guys who were getting the great shots were not the guys who were respectful of rules, passes, or permissions or who were particularly fearful of litigation. Forgive us our timidity, Cartier-Bresson, Capra, Weegee, et al, we are unworthy of your example."
,
Seeming arrogance? Oh, no. It's actually arrogance. It's real, live, adolescent "I can do what I want" arrogance. The kind of arrogance that confuses cajones with cojones and Capra with Capa.
I went to a friends wedding in an historic, and beautiful, old church. As I went in the sign at the door said, "This is a private ceremony, please be respectful." Two tourists strolled won the aisle and stood about eight feet from the bride, groom, and priest and proceeded to take photos with flash. At the time, I thought, "What jackasses." Now I realize that were just incredibly brave.
For some, respect is obviously something they demand but don't give.