I love taking party & show photos

[discodevil]

a

[subwayray]

I don't think there would be a problem with that

[Ignorance77]

I'm sure they'd be happy with that... as long as you seek permission first.

[Cameron M]

Having done this for various articles myself, my advice would be to have a media pass or card ready

If you don't have one, then make sure you've got a good reason to take the photos. Not many people will want you taking pics of them if the pictures are just for your own personal collection.

If it's for a book that you're developing - say so.

Also - be prepared for people to say no, and don't get annoyed/offended or insistent when it happens. They have the right to say no, and a few times scene photographers have taken a photo without my permission. Without sounding wanky, it's not your right so respect that.

(FYI - you can take a photo of anyone if they are in a public place, but I'm not sure that a nightclub is a public place. Can anyone confirm this? What are the technicalities of the law?)

[phatic]

When taking photos in private venues like pubs and nightclubs, there is a common law understanding which places the discretion of photography, and any other rules, on the onus of the venue management. It's often a good idea to check with the duty manager if it is ok to take photos first.

As for taking photo of people. There are certain laws which must be followed. If the photo is being taken for commercial use (sale/book/exhibition .. etc) then it is best practice to have a model release form signed by the person in the photo. For photos of events, such as photos that appear on samesame.com.au then (please correct me if I'm wrong) this transaction is achieved through both permission to take photos of the models from the club/pub management, and also a verbal agreement between you and the model.

The most important thing to remember is to let people know who you are and what the photos will be used for. There is no solid law in Queensland that covers photography in public places, but worthy of a read:

www.artslaw.com.au/legalinformation/StreetPhotographersRights.asp (www.artslaw.com.au/legalinformation/StreetPhotographersRights.asp)
Commission for children and young people photography fact sheet (www.ccypcg.qld.gov.au/pdf/publications/brochures/children-and-the-media/Corporate-Fact-Sheet3.pdf)