Whatever.

[Trinity524]

If you felt that this was creepy and out of place, no matter where it was, it was wrong. Mother's intuition is ALWAYS right. There are no many things wrong with this situation.

You have to ask yourself "Why was he taking pictures of your children?" It could be innocent, like she is beautiful and he wanted to capture her innocence. However, after he saw that it made you uncomfortable, why didn't he stop? Total creep. And then afterwards when you moved and he was still taking pictures? That gave me a cold chill!

Now for the other poster: Mexico is a country rich in traditions and superstitions, and when it comes to children, those who admire a child must touch the child firstly with their hand, so as to show the absence of any envy or desires. Being that I am now living in San Antonio, TX, when I had my son, all the old ladies had to touch him. I was like wth? And then the ladies would say "ojo". I had no idea what that was about, but I never felt creepy about it. I was then told at work that it had to do with the evil eye and making sure that the baby wasn't hurt do to them liking his features or little fat legs...lol

Again... You know best. I say I would have reported it to security, but I may not have if I thought it would have upset the child. On my honeymoon I was in a park in Paris and I saw this beautiful little girl just playing with rocks near a pond. I took fantastic pics of her, but I also showed her mother the pictures afterwards. I didn't speak French and she didn't speak English, but I know she didn't think I was using them inappropriately. BTW- best pics I took on that trip!

 

[mouseketeer_mom]

I saw this thread this morning and wished that I'd had time to respond then but didn't.

Several years ago I attendeded a conference as professional in criminal justice. I had the great privlege of being part of workshop whose speaker was a gentleman that had many years of experience working as an agent for the FBI in child pornography and was moving towards internet child sex crimes. I'm not suggesting that the OP was a victim or being targeted as a victim. But there are several red flags raised in the set of circumstances the OP described that are at the very least, cause for concern.

Without going into the kinds of stories that give parents nightmares, we can all be just a little aware of things we may not realize pose a risk to our children. If anyone is taking pictures of your child without your permission, sound some sort of alarm. I don't mean you have to run through the streets screaming, but do something. Take a pic of them and make sure they know you're taking it. Say loudly, so that others hear and see, "PLEASE stop taking photos of my child". Make sure the person knows you are aware of them and write down a description of them, attract attention of security if you can.

Frankly, most times they simply think your child is the picture of childhood innocence. Most times they aren't actually taking a pic of your child. Most times.... well, it's absolutely nothing to be concerned about. But, just in case... be aware.

 

[Zeebs]

This topic always boggles my mind. I have to seriously wonder what planet some of you are living on sometimes.

I have to think that the parents here who are going off the deep end about pictures of kids being taken at Disney World ending up in sex chat rooms and such is just SO far into left field. I mean, seriously.

Yes, child molesters and perverts exist. Unfortunately. However, they are not lurking around every corner, just waiting with baited breath for YOUR child to walk by so they can snatch her/him up.

Yes, sometimes pictures do end up on the internet and are used for nefarious purposes. HOWEVER, unless your child is naked, why would you care? If someone is going to get off on an image of your child fully clothed, having fun at Disney World, what's to say he/she is not going to get off WATCHING your child fully clothed, having fun at Disney World? These people don't need to be behind a computer, in their own homes, to get their rocks off, if you know what I mean...and a picture of your child is hardly considered child porn unless, like I said, he/she is naked...

If someone wants to take a picture of my child, so be it. My boys are extremely cute (if I do say so myself). They do a lot of funny things. I have seen kids do some really funny things too, when I've been on vacation without my boys and have been missing them, and I've taken pictures of strangers' kids before, because I thought they were doing something cute, and I was missing my boys. The parents never cared (maybe because I'm a "mom", who knows).

What I pride myself on is my OWN vigilance about my own kids personal safety. I am always aware of where they are at ALL times, EVERY single day (they are little still, and one has special needs, so I worry more about him). I do the best I can to protect them, WITHIN MY ABILITY. This world is dangerous, and my job as a parent is to teach them that, and give them the tools to navigate it safely. Dangerous people have always existed. WE are all here as adults, though. We made it just fine. The odds are always in our children's favor. The chances of a tragedy are extremely slim.

Live your lives and stop sweating this stuff.

Totally agree.

I put photos on the internet, trip reports, facebook, a blog are they naked NO.

Here is a picture of my boys in Hong Kong, being two little blonde boys in an Asian country they were very popular. Some people asked if they could take photos some didn't.

These people surrounded us, none of them spoke a word of English, it was like a mob. They were excited when they thought we just had the one little boy but when they spotted my eldest who was sitting in the pushchair they had a field day. Until the boys gave signs that they were done with being handed about and having their photos taken I didn't have a problem with it.

Kirsten

 

[tatooed goofy]

That is some scray stuff. people are super weird.

I had a similiar experience at Universal in Hollywood. I have 3 blonde/blue eyed girls, at the time 7 months, 2 yrs and 8. We got in line for the backlot tour thingy and were basicly assualted by a huge group of japanese tourists. You would have thought my girls were mickey mouse. the cameras came out and snaps and flashes. even trying to pose with the girls. it made me very uncomfortable. Dh of course didnt have an issue, he thought it was funny. He did draw the line at them holding the baby.


Its a bad feeling though. Hopefully you wont run into him anymore at the parks,

A fellow teacher went to Japan. She is blonde and blue eyed. She was treated as a queen. Everyone wanted to touch her, take her picture, feed her, and such. Her translator told her blonde hair was rare and only from the west so they were in awe of her. She had nothing to fear but they never see it so they want to experience it. Just thought I would tell you.

The guy creeps me out big time. He obviously wanted her pic for reasons we do not know. The tourists I laughed knowing what I know. I would report it and that way if anyone else at any of the other parks reports it, they can watch for the guy. Good luck.

 

[PinkTink2009]

Geez...some people. I would of called security. That must suck and ruin the Disney experience for the day...gives me the shivers just thinking about it...

~Jen

 

[Indiana Rose Lee]

There is no way I'd let one guy ruin a Disney Day. Don't be silly.

 

[BABY_EINSTEIN'S_MOM]

I have a story related to this....we were all staked out to watch Spectro one night and a middle aged-older man was next to my dh, his wife was beside me, and his grown kids and grandkids were sitting in front of us. He struck up a conversation with my dh about various things for quite a while. Anyway, he had a really nice camera around his neck that it appeared he used quite often.

Anyway my youngest had his face painted, was wearing a custom boutique Mickey pirate outfit, holding his new light up Mickey spinner, and was eating a churro. The man asked my dh if he could take pics of my ds. My dh said sure, then I was asked and I agreed that it would be okay. My dh was like "smile" and the man said no, he just wanted to snap of few unposed random pics of him in the moment.

Anyway, he snapped a few pics, then showed them to me. Then he went on to take many pics of the parade. I felt a bit odd when he first asked, but I haven't given it much thought since.....well until after reading this thread!

After realizing the guy was sitting there with his entire family and talking about photography, etc. I really believe he was simply adding to his "Disney" collection and at that moment my ds was the epitome of "happy at Disney"! But, yes, I could see where I may not have had that feeling...depending on the person, situation, etc. While talking to my mom about it, she was concerned and I told her it was one of those snap decisions and if it ever happened again I would probably not consent. It is sad that we have to worry about such things in this world we live in.

 

[kelma]

I think the point that so many are missing here is that the OP, as a parent "felt" that something was wrong with this guy and his picture taking. There is a wonderful book called Protecting the Gift It discusses ways to protect your children without making them afraid of strangers. In it, he stresses that we must trust our instincts as parents and as humans in general. He maintains that no other animal would try to ignore their instincts that something was not right and that we do a great disservice to ourselves when we do.

There may have been 30 people taking pictures of the OP's daughter on that same day and she never noticed, or if she did, her subconscious mind felt no threat by it. She's not here complaining or posting about any of those people. THIS man made her feel threatened and she did exactly the right thing by listening to her instinct to protect her child.

I have no desire to argue the rightness or wrongness of taking pictures of others or their children. Although I am fairly disgusted by the idea that there are those who feel your child is not a victim if their photo is used by some pedophile to get off Mostly I just want to applaud the OP for trusting her instincts and keeping her child safe

Kelma
Mom to 2 princes and 2 princesses

 

[maraki527]

I am sorry but I had to disagree with everyone that is saying there is nothing wrong with this man taking her picture. If he was just taking innocent pictures when the OP took her child away and gave him a dirty loook he should have said something or explained himself. But then to catch him after doing the same thing, he is a perv. If he wasnt so sly and creepy then its a different story but he was. I would have done the same thing in that situation. and for people without children that are commenting....come back once you have one!

 

[Hannathy]

What scares me most about this thread is the "witch hunt" mentality that is going on here and is being applauded by the majority!!!

Think about this, it is a very frightening thought. So many of you are ready to persecute this man for doing nothing in reality!! what ever happened to innocent until proven guilty? What is next reporting people to security for thinking something you don't like?

 

[kevschickee]

What scares me most about this thread is the "witch hunt" mentality that is going on here and is being applauded by the majority!!!

Think about this, it is a very frightening thought. So many of you are ready to persecute this man for doing nothing in reality!! what ever happened to innocent until proven guilty? What is next reporting people to security for thinking something you don't like?

The thing is is that you don't know if it really was nothing. As a parent I am going to do what I can to make sure it was nothing. If that takes complaining to a cm then so be it. If it is nothing then we go on our way no harm no foul but if it is somthing I am glad I complained.

 

[Lucille1963]

OP - That does sound creepy. I probably would have said something to security.

On a lighter note, I also have a blonde haired, blue eyed son who must be famous throughout Asia. The first time I was approached by someone who wanted to take his picture I thought it was odd, now it doesn't even phase me. We spend a lot of time at our local museums and parks, which also happen to be major tourist attractions.

I guess the main difference is that the people I encounter are upfront and friendly (though there is usually a major language barrier).

If someone was being shady about it, the momma bear in me would make an appearance.

 

[Hannathy]

The thing is is that you don't know if it really was nothing. As a parent I am going to do what I can to make sure it was nothing. If that takes complaining to a cm then so be it. If it is nothing then we go on our way no harm no foul but if it is somthing I am glad I complained.

Just what are you going to complain to the CM about? He didn't touch her, talk to her, block her way? You are allowed to take pictures in a theme park!!!!
Disney better hire a whole lot more CM's to go after all the folks taking pictures!!! That ought to help the unemployment rate in Florida.

 

[brp]

What scares me most about this thread is the "witch hunt" mentality that is going on here and is being applauded by the majority!!!

Think about this, it is a very frightening thought. So many of you are ready to persecute this man for doing nothing in reality!! what ever happened to innocent until proven guilty? What is next reporting people to security for thinking something you don't like?

"Guilty until proven innocent" has been replaced here with "guilty because I think you are." It's a model with precedent throughout history. Salem and the Crusades come to mind.

As to the comment to "come back when I have kids" - I don't have, and will never have, kids, by a choice I'm quite happy with. That does not abrogate my rights to comment. Nor does it make me a perv if I happen to take a picture of your kid, despite what you think my motives might be.

While you (the general you, not the poster I'm quoting) may not believe in the protections afforded by the Constitution, that doesn't render them any less valid, fortunately.

Cheers.

 

[kevschickee]

Just what are you going to complain to the CM about? He didn't touch her, talk to her, block her way? You are allowed to take pictures in a theme park!!!!
Disney better hire a whole lot more CM's to go after all the folks taking pictures!!! That ought to help the unemployment rate in Florida.

In the case of the OP that she caught him doing it 2x. Its a little odd that he would do it before the ride and then they come off the ride and he starts taking pictures again. Yes my momma instict would kick in and I would complain. Can you complain about everyone taking pics of your kids no you can't BUT this guy did it twice like he was waiting for her so yes I would complain.

 

[Lucille1963]

Nobody is convicting anyone, it is merely a heads up to the authorities. I know that in our inner city neighborhood, the police WANT you to call in suspicious persons. They say it makes their job easier.

No one here is the judge or the jury, just concerned citizens with observations that they feel should be shared.

There used to be a bum that hung around our neighborhood (we live across the street from a high school). I had a live and let live philosophy until he exposed himself to a friend....when the police caught him it turned out he was a convicted child molester and shouldn't have been in our neighborhood at all. I wish I had called him in for loitering and suspicious behavior earlier (he used to sleep in the school yard) and I could have saved my dear friend some anguish.

I don't want to freak anyone out and I am not a overprotective, but if your gut tells you something isn't right, put up a red flag.

 

[Hannathy]

Nobody is convicting anyone, it is merely a heads up to the authorities. I know that in our inner city neighborhood, the police WANT you to call in suspicious persons. They say it makes their job easier.

No one here is the judge or the jury, just concerned citizens with observations that they feel should be shared.

There used to be a bum that hung around our neighborhood (we live across the street from a high school). I had a live and let live philosophy until he exposed himself to a friend....when the police caught him it turned out he was a convicted child molester and shouldn't have been in our neighborhood at all. I wish I had called him in for loitering and suspicious behavior earlier (he used to sleep in the school yard) and I could have saved my dear friend some anguish.

I don't want to freak anyone out and I am not a overprotective, but if your gut tells you something isn't right, put up a red flag.

Oh give me a break! comparing Disneyworld to inner city Chicago, LOL

That is the farthest stretch I have heard in a loooong time.

 

[Lucille1963]

Oh give me a break! comparing Disneyworld to inner city Chicago, LOL

That is the farthest stretch I have heard in a loooong time.

By no means to I think that the dangers compare. I was just using it as an example of when I had a creepy feeling and I didn't do anything about it. Alerting the authorities to a questionable situation could have save someone some trouble.

 

[MiniGirl]

Yes, sometimes pictures do end up on the internet and are used for nefarious purposes. HOWEVER, unless your child is naked, why would you care?

Live your lives and stop sweating this stuff.

You know.... I can't say why it bothers me, but it does. My dh and I have a rule about posting pics of our children on the internet. We don't -- at least no pics where anyone can see their faces (see my siggy pic). It would bother me a great deal if I came to the DIS and opened a thread and saw a pic of my kid. It wouldn't matter what the thread was about. It wouldn't matter if the pic had not been altered or anything. In other words, the photographer took the photo with the purest of intentions. It would still upset me. I understand that some feel it is no big deal, but strangers taking and having pictures of our children are just beyond our comfort zone. I should add, too, that we are not overzealous and over protective parents.

I think this is just one more instance where there is no need for the fighting -- just like nursing, cloth vs. disposable, co-sleeping, etc. If you have no problem w/strangers taking photos of your children w/o your permission, that's fine. Your kids. Your decision. Don't tell those of us that do though, that we are wrong or "sweating the small stuff" though. My kids. My decision.

Bottom line.... the photographer in question should have asked permission or at the very least explained his actions when the mom noticed him and was obviously upset by them, and he definitely should not have continued taking the pics.

 

[maraki527]

You know.... I can't say why it bothers me, but it does. My dh and I have a rule about posting pics of our children on the internet. We don't -- at least no pics where anyone can see their faces (see my siggy pic). It would bother me a great deal if I came to the DIS and opened a thread and saw a pic of my kid. It wouldn't matter what the thread was about. It wouldn't matter if the pic had not been altered or anything. In other words, the photographer took the photo with the purest of intentions. It would still upset me. I understand that some feel it is no big deal, but strangers taking and having pictures of our children are just beyond our comfort zone. I should add, too, that we are not overzealous and over protective parents.

I think this is just one more instance where there is no need for the fighting -- just like nursing, cloth vs. disposable, co-sleeping, etc. If you have no problem w/strangers taking photos of your children w/o your permission, that's fine. Your kids. Your decision. Don't tell those of us that do though, that we are wrong or "sweating the small stuff" though. My kids. My decision.

Bottom line.... the photographer in question should have asked permission or at the very least explained his actions when the mom noticed him and was obviously upset by them, and he definitely should not have continued taking the pics.

You said it perfectly. A lot better than I tried too!