Grand Central Terminal Question!!!?

Question

I want to take pictures of GCT and the Metro North Trains. Is there anything I should know?

Can I take pictures of the trains?

Answer 1

get permission the cops are very skiddish after the Sept. 11 attacks on American. get a permit

Answer 2

Try the website below.  They may already have some pictures that you are looking for.

Answer 3

The other answers about it being a "no-no", having to get permission, and possibly being arrested are really coming out of left-field.

Brass tacks here - no permit, no permission or notice required, anywhere accessable to the public is legal, and threatening arrest for taking pictures is not MTA's policy and can have legal implications against the officer.

http://www.lirrhistory.com/photog.pdf

Those letters, courtesy Rob Anderson prove it. Print the PDF file and carry them with you.

You shouldn't have any trouble on the concourse. On the platforms, you may get questions, but be open about being a railfan, and if challenged on legality procure the letters you printed. If you're asked to leave the platform, just do it - go to another or go back later. Don't go arguing with employees.

Don't be condescending. If some says "you can't take pictures", politely inform them thats not MTA's policy, nor the policy of MTA police, and hold the letters in your hand, let them read them if they wish. But like I said..if the issue gets pressed, digress.

There are no laws against railroad photography from public areas that I know of anywhere in the US except on PATH. I've talked to law-enforcement and employee's in pursuit of my photography before, and only twice had an issue. Otherwise, everything was cool.

Answer 4

Yes you can.  Just be aware, however, that you may be stopped and questioned at which point just remember to be completely honest and open and you shouldn't have any trouble at all.

Answer 5

since 911 taking pictures of any kind of transportation subject is a no-no you can be arrested for doing stuff like this my advice is find you a secludedlace where there is;nt other people and take you some pictures unless you feel like you want to be on the news or in jail.