National Parks Special Use Permit`

Does anyone have experience with or run into any problems obtaining Special Use Permits for photographing in National Parks?

Drew M Wright
http://www.alpinewilderness.com

I think you only need it if your gear "looks" professional. If you are using one wide angle lens you might be O.K. A lot of gear and a model with umbrellas you need a permit.

I can't imagine what happens with a LF camera!

Asher

I have been shooting in National Parks for years. The permit law was enacted about 15 years ago and the basics as I understand them are, you are free to do as you please as long as you not on a "commercial" endeavor. IOW you can shoot all you want for yourself, but the minute you start to conduct business or shoot for commercial production, you need a permit. The permit involves both a fee and paying for a park ranger or rangers to escort you and your group.

Cheers,

Jack_Flesher said:

I have been shooting in National Parks for years. The permit law was enacted about 15 years ago and the basics as I understand them are, you are free to do as you please as long as you not on a "commercial" endeavor. IOW you can shoot all you want for yourself, but the minute you start to conduct business or shoot for commercial production, you need a permit. The permit involves both a fee and paying for a park ranger or rangers to escort you and your group.

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Isn't there something more to be said about the letter versus the intent of the 'law'. Isn't the goal to control location shoots/documentaries, involving groups of technicians, photograpers/cinematographers, models/actors, lighting setups, catering, motorhomes/tents for housing, oil or waste water spills, etc.. That I can understand, to prevent the destruction of habitat.

I don't understand it if someone makes (or happens to make) a great scenic image and can sell it, thereby potentially providing for free publicity. Or are we talking just about money, the root of all evil, IOW greed?

Bart

A little clarification

Below is an email (May 6, 2006) on the subject from Lee Dickinson. I hope it clarifies the situation.

-Nat



Mr. Alpert:

thank your for your message. There is indeed concern on the part of still photographers about the new rules. But the policy of the NPS has not changed when it comes to requiring still photographers to obtain a permit to shoot. Generally, it you are not using models, sets or props, and are remaining in areas open to the public you do not require a permit. And fees only apply only when a permit is required.

I hope this answers your question. If you have any additional question or comments please feel free to contact me.

Nathaniel Alpert said:

Generally, it you are not using models, sets or props, and are remaining in areas open to the public you do not require a permit.

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There you go ..., although the "generally" is always a nice catch-all exception.

Bart