May someone film me in public?
In public spaces someone may film you without permission — but publishing is different. That triggers portrait rights and privacy rules.
Filming itself: in public spaces anyone may film — tourists, journalists, hobbyists, undercover journalists. Freedom of action + press freedom (Dutch Constitution Art. 7) permits it. But: filming quickly becomes "personal data processing" once you're recognisable. For commercial or structural filming (e.g. a YouTuber, a business with a high-street camera) the GDPR may apply. Publishing is a separate question: Dutch portrait law (Copyright Act Art. 21) applies. A photo/video where you're recognisable may not be published if you have a reasonable interest in stopping it — typically commercial use (advertising, merchandise) or defamatory portrayal. Publication exceptions: news/journalism (public interest), public figures in public role (politician giving a speech), crowds without individual focus. What you can do: even in public you may ask not to be filmed. If refused: don't escalate, no confrontation. If published without consent: letter to publisher invoking portrait law + GDPR Art. 17 (erasure). Police/enforcement: police filming has specific legal framework (Wet politiegegevens). Citizens may film officers performing public duties. Private investigators: only under strict conditions + Ministry of Justice licence. Drone: separate rules — registration, flight area, altitude. Filming private property without consent = privacy infringement.
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