etiquette for posting pics of other people's boats

[Jack Long]

What is the etiquette for posting pictures of other people's boats?

The guy in the slip next to me- who I've never seen or met- has a lot of cool crap setup on his boat and I'd like to post pics and say "anyone know how/what/why/etc" but don't want to break any unspoken rules...

Thanks,
J

[David M]

Personally, I don't see any problem. I posted a pic of a catamaran that I was trying to identify and received no warnings from the mods, admins or any sort or comments that I should not have done that. For security reasons, you might not want to mention where the boat is located.

David

[Jack Long]

Thank you.

I guess I meant more "in the world of boaters" rather than forum specific. I would not hesitate to post a picture of some random person's dog. But I certainly wouldn't post a picture of some random person's kid. You know? Are boats dogs or kids?

Seriously, he has this... crane... WANT!

[Zach]

I've caught some flack for this...

Suggestion: Blank out the name on the transom, and any registration numbers. (And don't link from other peoples websites when asking the question... that was my oops. Gotta ask for permission!)

As far as taking the picture: If its on public property or in a public space, you can take a picture of whatever you see. Private property things are a little different, same as if they are prancing about naked down below... or any time someone would expect to be having a private moment... even if you can see them from a public space. (I took a broadcasting class a couple years ago, I think that covers the basics on taking the picture. Generally photography falls under art you've made... unless its private property, privacy, or national security...)

Zach

If the boat is in public view, we are the public. No problem. If you intend to use the photos for personal gain, there could potentially be an issue, but if you are simply sharing observations, I see no issue with it.

[Ex-Calif]

I view it the same as someone's car or motorcycle.

The difference as noted above might be where the boat is stored, and if you get into anything sensitive. I would also avoid identifying the location.

"Hey. Here's a really cool boat with really cool stuff located at "myboatyard" and the gate is locked but the security code is 1234 so it's easy to get in" - might raise some eyebrows.

"Hey - Here is a really cool boat located near me. I noticed this windgen setup (picure attacehd) and was wondering if anyone knew the source." - would be OK IMO.