vikkyvik wrote:So I parked at the end of Airport Loop Drive, and just shot from right around there:
So I've been back there twice since I first posted. Both times right after work, in the late afternoon (around 3:45 PM). Both times, Orange County Sheriff cars patrolling the airport have pulled up (on the airfield-side of the fence), and have walked over to talk to me (through the fence, of course).
Those two exchanges have probably been the most polite, courteous, and friendly conversations I've ever had with law enforcement officers. They asked what I was doing, asked about my camera, asked if it was a hobby of mine, then basically said (on both occasions), "don't worry, no one has called or anything, we're just checking you out" (or whatever), "have fun, get some great shots, just don't do anything suspicious or stupid". Then they wished me a nice day, etc., and went on their way.
I assume they've had some less friendly exchanges, because the first time, the guy very specifically said "we're not approaching you for any reason, we're keeping our distance, just checking on you".
The second time (different officer), he asked me how it was going, so just out of courtesy I asked how things were going on his side of the fence, and we talked about the Christmas rush currently going on (I think this was the 23rd).
I think I can sum it up by saying I gave them no reason to worry, and they gave me no reason to worry. So bravo, OC Sheriff. I'm impressed.