Although my prices are way more reasonable than most of my competition, I have been asked why photographers charge a pretty penny for sessions. I was reminded this morning as I called a location requested by a client and found out that the permit fee for the location ranged anywhere from $400 – $1500. And that is for exactly ONE HOURS worth of time. That additional fee would have to be charged to my client if they choose to go forward.
Crazy, isn’t it? On top of that, for me to even be considered for the permit, I have to send in an application four weeks in advance, and provide proof of liability insurance for at least $1,000,000.
I do have permits for certain areas, and believe it or not, even the most common areas, such as wilderness parks or state parks require permits to shoot there. I have been stopped at parks asking for my permit. This IS standard protocol for photographers.
I have had a few conversations this year with clients who didn’t understand why we need a permit, and can we just shoot and run! LOL. I’m not saying I haven’t done this, because there are times that I wasn’t aware that a location required a permit. But the truth is, my reputation is on the line and it’s not worth it to become embarrassed in front of a client so that I can look like an unprofessional shlub.
So….what is a permit, and why?
I have copied a piece from a professional photographer, David Koster advising on this subject:
Why? Aside from allowing access to the areas that clients want, following the permit process assures that others don’t lose access to those privileges and locations. “And you don’t want to risk looking bad by getting a fine in front of your clients.
It’s not always beaches that are the reasons for permits. In fact, there are four main reasons why you might need a photography permit:
Commercial Photography—In regards to permits and photographing on public lands, commercial photography is defined as photography that is performed in exchange for a fee. It is not a reference to the photographic specialty of commercial photography. This means that if the images are being taken for a client (whether it is an engagement session or a family portrait), then it is considered commercial photography because that client is going to exchange money for the images…and you may need a permit.
Use of Props, Models & Sets—What you bring with you on location can determine your need for a permit. For instance, props and sets include items that may be intrusive to visitors or cause damage to the property. Models can mean any person who might be the subject of a photograph, whether or not they’re a paid model.
What about the camera equipment you need to complete your session? Lee Dickinson, Special Park Uses Program Manager with the National Park Service (NPS), offers some advice: “Generally, I would say that photographers who use more than a camera and tripod should check with the land manager about the need for a permit. Depending on the location, time of year and anticipated visitation, it might be possible for a photographer to use more than a camera and tripod without the need for a permit, but once you start talking about larger equipment (such as light diffusers or reflectors) a permit will probably be required.”
Location—Where you plan on shooting can also have an impact on your need for a permit. Permits are required if you are entering a restricted access area, which means that the location is off limits to the general public or requires an official escort or supervision. “If a photographer wants access to an area not open to the general public, they should contact the land management agency to request a permit,” explains Dickinson.
You will also need to seek a permit if you plan on shooting in a high-traffic or popular location. A permit in this situation will also ensure that you have the site to yourself—meaning it will be free of competing photographers and their clients.
Administrative Needs—If you plan on conducting a shoot that requires any use of park (or other official) personnel, a permit is usually required so the agency can ensure someone is available to assist you on that date. It’s also important to note that any fees associated with the use of staff will be passed along to you in addition to the cost of your permit.
So, though it might sound ridiculous to need permits, it’s a necessary evil in the field of photography. Photographers invest a lot of time and money in their equipment, insurance, locations and best lighting of the day…. A permit is just a small piece of what we do to make our clients look good.
Do you have any questions for me regarding photography? I’d love to answer them! Just email me at photobycat@gmail.com and I’ll get back to you!
photobycat.wordpress.com 