photos with flash during playing action
 

In a NFHS game, as R1, I requested the local newspaper photographer to cease using a flash on his camera during playing action. He demanded to know what rule states that. I have been officiating volleyball for over 5 years, and this is the first time anyone has ever questioned this. When I began officiating volleyball, I was told that a flash was not allowed in high school volleyball.

I'm not sure if there is a rules justification but you as head referee have the right to tell him/her to stop if in your opinion the flash becomes distracting to the players.If that photographer continues to not comply then you stop until game administration can get them out.If I was the photographer I would've just complied with your request and got the best shots I could.

My experience is that some state associations have mandated that flash is not allowed. I base my call upon two things (1) is it distracting to the players on the court? and (2) is the flash causing me to see "blue dots" instead of colored or white volleyballs? Actually, if the flash blinds me during play, the photographer is going to be moved so I can do my job without interference.