Question Number: 27023

League Specific 11/19/2012

RE: club-league Other

Jim Law of West Berlin, New Jersey USA asks...

Is it legal to video a game from the teams side of the field?

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Jim
That can be a competition rule but in general for games involving those over the age of 18 there is no issue.
However at underage the matter can be covered by Child Protection Guidelines. In Ireland, which follows international best practise, before any children or young people up to the age of 18 can appear in video or photograph, the photographer must get parental consent. Similarly, the photographer must get the permission of anyone in a video or photo who is not part of a crowd and is easily recognisable.
Issues can arise if the video / images are posted on a website where there is no permission given and exception is taken by a parent regarding the publication. For private use it is not an issue although the photographer could be asked not to take photos at a game.
Generally though it is not an issue and participants do not have a problem with photos or video.

Answer provided by Referee Dennis Wickham

When leagues restrict spectators to one side of the field, parents usually may not wander to the other side simply because they have a camera. Almost everyone has a camera. Professionals generally may film in other locations if they remain well away from the touchlines and goal lines.

A wise referee, however, will note the difference between someone who is quietly filming the match and a parent/spectator with a camera. If they begin coaching, cheering, or bothering players or substitutes, they should be made to return to the spectator area.