Are locations that Require a Permit really worth it?
Location scouting is a huge part of my job as a photographer and over the past ten years, I searched all over the Long Island, NY for places that pique my interest and will work well for photo sessions. Like any photographer, I have plenty of “go to” spots, but I always love exploring new areas. Some of the locations I have discovered over the years require permits and those tend to be client favorites. Other locations, do require a fee and some clients do not mind the additional expense.
There are many locations that my clients and I both love that require photography permits. While planning a family session, it can feel annoying to have the added cost of a permit. I thought it would be useful to talk more about photography permits and how we include them in planning your portrait session in St Augustine, Florida.
So, why do those locations charge a fee and is it really worth it?
You may be wondering, why do these locations require permits? These locations use them for a variety of reasons. From maintaining the location, supporting the organization, and helping the organizer plan their calendar, they serve a multitude of purposes. Organizations deserve respect in letting us use their space, so I never have any issue taking care of getting a permit.
Locations that typically charge fees are museums, historical landmarks, state owned facilities or areas heavily trafficked by photographers. Some of these locations I love and others I can do without. For example, a location that I used often when living on Long Island, NY was The Planting Fields Arboretum in Oyster Bay, NY. This location had a very reasonable $100 permit fee that I felt was very worth it.
What does A photography permit include?
It all varies based on the location and the organization. Most locations will issue a permit for a predetermined amount of hours on a specific date. Other locations will issue a year round permit. Some places will allow you to use the location exclusively, while others allow more than one photographer at a time. It really depends on the site and what their rules are.
What is the Cost of a Permit?
Again it all varies. Some locations do not have a fee, but require you to complete a form. Other places can have a fee anywhere from $50 to $300. Most locations require a form to be completed in order to schedule your sessions there. Some require the form be filled out 1-2 weeks prior to the session and others allow you to complete it on site.
How Do you Obtain a permit?
I will handle all of those details for you. I contact the location prior to your session to make all of the arrangements. I will complete the form as well. If there is a fee, I will update your final invoice to reflect the price. In rare cases, there are locations that require you to be a resident I may ask you to complete the permit. If you are unhappy with the additional cost, you can choose a location that does not require a permit. Also, think about the cost of the permit as a donation to the organization, which by the way is tax deductible.
Do we really have to get the permit?
Yes. You do. These permits show these incredible locations that we respect them, the history or work that organization is doing, and that we’re going to be aware of what we’re doing onsite. It’s important to follow all of the rules and regulations they provide, too. Furthermore, the last thing you want to happen is to be kicked out of a location just because you did not have a permit.
Locations in The St Augustine, Florida Area that require permits
I recently moved to St Augustine, Florida and I plan on spending a lot of time looking for locations. I have already compiled a brief list of locations. Although these locations require a permit for professional photography, they are well worth the added fee and I plan on scheduling sessions at them.
2. Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
5. St Augustine Historic District
Ready to book your session?
Contact me today to discuss your options for a family photo session.