The Risks of Theft and Copyright Breach from Camera Use During Scientific Presentations: It's Time for a Debate

London Partner Andrew Shindler co-authored an article exploring the debate over copyright violations of photographing scientific work, which is predominately shared via publications and presentations at academic meetings. The authors examine copyright, photography and the concerns of upholding patient confidentiality.

Shindler concluded: “It is clear that the increasing prevalence of camera phones requires the issues relating to photography and distribution of online content to be debated by society and medicine. This article is not suggesting that photography during conference presentations be banned; indeed, policing of the taking of photographs at conferences may be difficult. However, we recommend that clear terms and conditions regarding the taking and further distribution of such photographs be established.”