Many parents are upset they can’t take photos of their children performing.

As is the case at many performances these days, there is a notice on the syllabus that says the use of all electronic recording devices, including cameras and mobile phones, during performances of the Bathurst Eisteddfod is strictly prohibited. 

Eisteddfod Society president Paula Elbourne said rules about people taking photographs at the eisteddfod have been in place for some years, long before she came to the role. 

She said an agreement was reached between the Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre (BMEC) and the Eisteddfod Society to not allow photographs, except for those taken by professional media photographers. 

Ms Elbourne said when it came to sessions which involve large groups of children, such as choirs, bands, and dance troupes, having a lot of parents standing up throughout the performance and snapping flash photos can be distracting to children who are already feeling the pressure.

“From the Eisteddfod Society’s point of view we cherish the kids’ ability to be on stage with their peers and we know how distracting it is to have flashes going off,” Ms Elbourne said.

“We want the kids to enjoy themselves.”

She said the matter came to a head when the number of photos being taken by parents got out of hand. It coincided with the introduction of new privacy rules at BMEC. 

Ms Elbourne said the Eisteddfod Society is now considering the idea of engaging someone to film the bands and choirs – however, it will require obtaining permission from individual parents and the schools beforehand.

She said the professional news media has been permitted to take some photographs to ensure there is a snapshot of the eisteddfod for that year – otherwise, over time, the history of the event will be lost. Next year marks the 70th year of the Bathurst Eisteddfod.

“We also encourage schools to put on a performance at school so it falls under the school’s discretion as to whether parents can take photographs or not,” Ms Elbourne said.

“I completely understand how proud parents are to see their children on stage, but the privacy of all children also needs to be respected.”

She said organisers of events involving a lot of children have to consider a number of factors.

“I understand why they have had to bring in privacy laws, we have to protect our kids from the unsavoury people out there, but it’s such a shame,” she said.

BMEC manager Stephen Champion said BMEC had a discussion with the organisers of the eisteddfod some years ago. 

He said there were problems when it came to the dance section after people began taking photos and offering them for sale.

Some parents didn’t like this. 

“Subsequently we arranged for photos of the dancers to be taken in one of the conference rooms,” he said. “This way parents can opt in if they want their child’s photo taken.”

Mr Champion said BMEC doesn’t have a policy about photography as such; it varies from event to event.