Unintentionally, we often invade people's privacy by forcing them to hear our conversations, and with the invention of camera phones, privacy is more of an issue than ever.

Do you know some of the etiquette of using cell phones as cameras?

If using a cell phone camera to take a picture, ask permission, as a person may not be aware of the picture being taken. And even if you have permission to take the picture, that does not mean you have permission to publish it to any social media or Web page.

With cell phone cameras everywhere and fast access to the Web, please take a moment to slow down and make sure you are not turning social media into anti-social behavior.

The use of social media is quickly emerging. It is important to make sure we understand the guidelines and be considerate of ourselves by asking others permission to post their pictures, which in turn, may help them to do the same to us.

Social Media - rage or outrage?

Social media is all the rage – but are we seeing outrage from our social network of friends?

I am writing this column in response to the growing number of friends and general public that have asked me what to do when they find themselves on someone's Facebook page or other social media page as a result of a picture taken at a party, event, or just out in public; sometimes known to the person in the picture, sometimes not - but often times, not appreciated.

There is etiquette to shooting a picture of someone and posting it on the Internet; and as with any new form of communication, there is suggested etiquette to help us be more considerate of others.

If using a digital camera and the person is aware their picture is being taken, he/she may not know of the intent to post it, when posing for a silly or innocent photo.

Please remember, just because a photograph is taken with a person's knowledge does not mean it is respectful or considerate to post it to the internet without their permission.

I suggest that you e-mail the picture to the person in the picture, with a note requesting permission to post it to the Internet.

Social media is designed to connect people, not disconnect from them by offending them. So have fun and stay connected by using respect for yourself and others as your basis for communication and life.

The Charleston School of Protocol and Etiquette specializes in helping people handle life's events and changes with style, polish and confidence. We offer seminars and consulting services in business etiquette, and medical office protocol. www.charlestonschoolofprotocol.com