What do you do when an audience member starts videotaping your show?

I always have the host make an announcement that video taping is not allowed. If the announcement hasn't been made, you can always politely request the person not to tape your act but that can make them feel uneasy since you stopped your show to single them out. You could use it to your advantage and after the show, ask the person if you could get a copy for your files.

I videotape all of my performances and make the tapes available to the hiring party. I mostly use the tpaes to critique myself, but then I found that by bringing 2 cameras and doing some simple editing with a general intro, It became another opportunity for revenue. Plus, you can charge for a copy of the tape, or use the tape as a bargaining chip (hey, I'll even throw in a video!). I haven't had any problems since I started taping my own shows.

You may clarify use of cameras or filming equipment is prohibited.

It sure can be a hassle. We personally had
difficulties when someone took photos of our show at the 1985 IBM convention and we wanted them for postcards.

It eventually worked out.