wrench1 makes good points.
Most POI's are just interpreting the rules as THEY see it. They have NO legal training.
I run 2 companies in 2 different FSDO's, we have some the exact same aircraft in both. We are permitted to do things in one, but not the other due to different interpretations. These days I have pilots and aircraft on both certificates and they change their name badge for a day.
FYI---I am not talking about any safety related things here, but merely whether a pilot or mechanic needs to sign off a daily.
Until we get more guidance from the FAA and we see an approved harness, and attachment strap combination, all photographers will remain in the aircraft seat belt with doors off. We do have some aircraft with a full sliding window set up for photography.