I am interested in learning about policies in art museums relating to
photographs taken inside the facility during special events (weddings,
meetings, etc.)--and the ongoing debate between collections preservation
and serving the public in museums.  How do other institutions balance
these concerns, and is there a good reference that one can use (in the
interest of preservation) that states clearly the risks posed by flash
photography to fragile textiles?

-----Original Message-----
From: Susan Noakes [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Monday, February 22, 1999 1:53 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: Policy on Use of Grounds


Contact Black Creek Pioneer Village in Toronto (under Metro Toronto
Conservation
Authority). They have policies (when I worked there in 1996) relating to
wedding
photographs especially - they charge for the use of the grounds,
different fees
if your reception or ceremony is also at the site or if its photos only.
Good
luck. Susan Noakes

Dave Mitchell wrote:

> I have been asked to write a policy for use of the Museum's grounds by
> professional photographers.  We are a very popular spot for senior
pictures
> and have had some difficulties with clothes changing, blocking
visitors etc.
> I am concerned that if I encourage the photographers to used the
grounds
> after hours I am increasing our liability if an injury of some kind
occurs.
> At the same time I dont want to discourage responsible use of the
grounds
> since its good PR and forbidding the use would be bad PR and
impossible to
> enforce.
>
> Does anyone have any policies in place or advice in dealing with this?
>
> thanks
>
> Dave Mitchell