So I'm trying to follow the lead that many of you have shown (both here and on your own sites) and am trying to create small field recording projects for myself. One in particular that I've always wanted to do is the local Metro system. However, being in DC, there are two things that have me taking pause:
A) The "threat level" factor of carrying around a medium sized bag with a bunch of wires hanging off it and a pointing a zeppelin at passing trains. Getting stopped, searched, detained, etc.
I keep business cards packed in my field bag (not that they'll do much). And I've printed out a copy of The US Photographer's Right's Card (not that it really pertains to us, but figure it can't hurt). I read Tim's question, and while it sounds like there's a considerable task force available to keep us from recording, I was wondering if there's a way to go about it wherein you actually receive permission. What are there steps that you go through to get permission for such things? Who do you contact? And how do you prove permission to some menial worker/guard when they inevitably stop you?
B) The distinct chime and station recording that (to DC residents) is immediately identifiable as a WMATA train and the legality of recording and using such a "branded" sound.
I presume that it's similar to recording your cell phone ring tone, in that you can't. It's owned by Motorola, or HTC, or RIM, or whoever and I'll be damned if I'm paying WMATA royalties. So, if I can't "legally" record it, how would I go about getting the door's sound, when every single time they open or shut they play the damn chime?