We conducted a literature search on this issue some years ago and could not
find any studies that clearly show the risks posed by flash photography to
fragile textiles by contemporary flash mechanisms. So we changed our
policy. I would be very interested to learn of referencess to the contrary.

Michael Bogle
Historic Houses Trust of NSW

>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

Michael Bogle, Historic Houses Trust of NSW
Peta Landman, Museums and Galleries Foundation of NSW
429 Riley Street
Surry Hills, Sydney NSW
Australia 2010
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