(A friendly survival guide from the Idaho Press Club)

The Supreme Court rule on cameras

The Idaho Supreme Court has voted to allow cameras in Idaho's trial courts.  But, this is only an experiment.  The courts ask that we film and photograph trials in a professional, unobtrusive way.  This is a rule the Idaho Press Club has fought for years.  We hope to make it work and make this rule permanent. 

Here are ten things you should know about cameras in the courtroom.  Consider it a guide to life in the courts.

Read the rule before you head out.  Keep a copy in your camera pack.  If you need a copy, call the Idaho Press Club at 389-2879, and we'll get you one or get a copy of the Internet Guide to the Idaho Courts - Media Guide.

Plan ahead
Photographers need a judge's approval, in advance, before shooting.  Some judicial districts want two or three working days' notice, but those rules vary. When in doubt, ask.

Hurry up and wait
Judges want photographers in place 15 minutes before court begins.  Please wait to pack up until after court is over or recessed.

No photographs of jurors during trials or jury selection.  Judges may also prohibit photographing some witnesses.  Again, ask first.

No lights
Flashes and additional lighting is prohibited.  No red lights, either.  Video and TV cameras cannot indicate if they're rolling or not.  Either cover up the red light, turn off the tally light or use a camera that doesn't have one.

Keep it quiet
Print photographers cannot use external motor drives, only manual film advance.  The number of shots should be kept to a minimum, and "fast random shooting" is not allowed. 

Don't move around
Video cameras cannot move once they are set up.  Still cameras should keep movement to a minimum.  Reporters must remain in their seats.

Dress for success
The rule requires photographers to "present a neat appearance" that maintains the dignity of court. 

Get in the pool
A judge need only allow one still photograph and one TV camera crew. 

Pooling arrangements are the responsibility of the press, not the judge.  

Keep us posted.  We want to keep a close eye on this cameras in the courtroom test period, so we can be prepared when the Supreme Court reviews the rule.  If you have problems, questions or observations, contact the Idaho Press Club at 389-2879.  Send us an e-mail at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .  You can also drop us line at P.O. Box 2221, Boise, ID, 83701, or fax us a note at  336-2775.  

Remember, the court can revoke this privilege if we're not careful. There are many in the legal profession who would like to limit our ability to cover the courts.  It is up to the Idaho news media to ensure that this rule remains in place.