rev:text
| - I love this park, it's gorgeous and the trails are great. A friend of mine is pregnant and her family and I went out to get some maternity shots. We went on a clear side trail (wide worn path, off main trail, connected to other trails, several other people also on the trail). We placed our items on a rock on the side of the trail. A City of Scottsdale asked us to get on a trail, we responded that we were. He then walked closer to us (still in shouting distance) and told us we were not on a trail, (we were standing in the middle of the trail). He then stated that we were on trail that wasn't a trail because it was made by "people doing the same thing you're doing". Okay we followed the trail we were on to the main trail and walked past him, he then followed us past the visitor center and continued to watch us take shots (again on a trail not blocking anyone while 2 other large groups took photos). We left a little late (7:10, the park closes at 6:59 we recognize this is our fault there were plenty of other people there and about 5 cars in the lot). He came around a corner and questioned us regarding time as we said our goodbyes. He stated the time, we apologized, he then told us we might be fined for trespassing as the gate "may or may not open up, I guess you'll take your chances". At this point as we questioned us, never identifying himself or his purpose, I started saying "okay" and not reacting. As we tried to leave again he said "are you a professional photographer" I said "emmm semi-pro I guess I do this for fun and my friends". He then looked at the couple and their son and said "are these your friends" and I said "yes I've known her 3 years". He then stated I needed a permit, I told him no park says you can't take photos of your friends this wasn't a professional shoot. Keep in mind I didn't even have a tripod, it was me and a camera. Also keep in mind that there were 3 total (including us) groups taking photos near us, we never saw him approach them or speak to them. At no point did he mention his name, title, purpose or intent. He approached us in the dark to vaguely threaten police action, he did not speak to the other groups and followed us as we finished up. This was a very poor example of City of Scottsdale employees and the park in general. My shots came out great though.
|