Immediately after I took the picture, a mall security woman informed me that I could not take pictures in the mall, that it was against the rules. Somewhat shocked and irritated, I put my camera away. I was unaware of such a rule, however we found a sign that clearly stated photographic activity within the mall is prohibited. I can accept this. I can also accept that enforcing the rules is part of the security person's job and that is all that she was doing in this case. What I do find interesting to note and to bring to your attention is that not all the rules are being enforced.
There is a rule that clearly states that under aged loitering is also against the rules, yet I witnessed many teenagers at the mall that evening doing just that. My husband and I made purchases in the mall that evening because we believe in supporting the local economy. While I was not there to witness whether or not the loitering teenagers made any purchases, I did not see them carrying any shopping bags. We passed by a particular group several times and noticed that not one person in the group had shopping bags.
I do know that there are special times when photographs in the mall are permitted. For instance, at the Night of Giving event last November, there was a reindeer. Many people, ourselves included, had cameras to take pictures of such a unique display. I assume management approved this photographic activity. I've spoken to people who have taken pictures in Chuck E. Cheese's. What makes it okay to take a picture of the rides in there and not on the rides somewhere else? Also, what type of photographic activity warrants management approval? As previously mentioned, the rule clearly states that photographic activity is prohibited in the mall, however the ambiguity lies within what is considered "management approval." If we come up to the mall and talk to management will we be permitted to take a picture of our son on the shuttle ride?
I have been to many shopping malls and have taken numerous photographs within these establishments. I have never been told I could not take pictures, especially of my child. I would appreciate a response. Thank you for your time.
Linda Harvey
979.297.4930
