Hanlan’s Point nude/naturist beach advocates are asking the public to be “respectful,” and either not film or follow certain photography etiquette while visiting the beach.
In a recent Instagram post, re-shared by the advocacy group Friends of Hanlan’s, a community member expressed frustration over unauthorized photography at the Toronto Island’s beach, and offered guidelines for responsible picture-taking.
The post emphasizes the importance of not taking photographs where people are visible in the background and advises to “never ever photograph naked people without their consent.”
It underscores the need to ensure that any visible individuals remain anonymous, protecting their privacy by not capturing identifiable features, particularly faces.
“Respect people who choose to be naked and don’t wanna be in the background of your selfies,” the post mentions. “Always photograph towards the water, not the sand.”
“Nude or naturist beaches are typically safer spaces for queer people, trans people, women…,” International Naturist Federation (INF) Co-President Stéphane Deschênes told Now Toronto on Tuesday.
However, many community members have ceased visiting the beach due to privacy and safety concerns, with some sharing unsettling incidents of being photographed without consent and even instances of sexual harassment.
“There’s been increasing complaints…community members for decades have stopped going to the beach now because they don’t feel safe,” a Friends of Hanlan’s Spokesperson told Now Toronto, who wished to remain anonymous.
Many Toronto residents are personally putting their stories on social media to share their experiences, and also make others aware.
“I’m a guy. 40 something year old filipino guy (was) taking pictures and videos of me naked for ten minutes until I realized. Felt so violated. We really can’t have nice things,” a Reddit user shared.
Another Reddit user shared recently their experience of being filmed along with their friend at the beach. “I was putting on my shorts and noticed a fully-clothed guy walking slowly with his phone to his chest with the outwards camera facing towards us,” the user said.
Despite existing signage indicating the clothing-optional status of the area and the prohibition of photography, municipal regulations currently only restrict commercial filming without proper authorization.
“While in a park, no person shall take or permit to be taken for remuneration any film,
photograph, videotape or television broadcast unless permitted under the City’s film by-law56 and authorized by permit from the Toronto Film and Television Office,” as per the City’s municipal code 608.
Advocates are now advocating for clearer signage and stricter measures that will uphold principles of respect and privacy crucial to the naturist beach culture.
