By Steven T. Jones
Will Burning Man send us a take-down notice for my unauthorized use of this photo of myself?
As I prepare for my seventh trip to Burning Man this weekend, I came across a fascinating discussion about restrictions on the use of photography from the event. Electronic Freedom Foundation fired the first shot, criticizing Burning Man for controlling the use of images from the event, and BM’s Andie Grace responded with a long defense of their reasons for doing so, and lively discussions ensued on other blogs.
I’ve written quite a bit about Burning Man over the years, including a piece called “Burning Brand” that touches on some of these issues. I also have a contract to write a book about the event (look for “The Tribes of Burning Man” next year), so I wrestle with the restrictions on the use of images from the event more than most people.
But for now, I’m going to keep my opinions to myself and just appreciate the great debate that has ensued. What do you think?