Time slows as a person roams the mission grounds. A feeling of tranquillity settles on a photographer in search for a certain line, that elusive shadow, and the unexpected color. Whether looking to capture a shot of man-made or natural wonders, a photographer will readily find something to take away.

Simple Rules

To preserve and protect the venerable places of this park, we ask for all photographers to:
1. not pose any subjects or place any equipment on the historical stone structures,
2. not block the entrances to any area, and
3. act with propriety both in the Church and on the park grounds.

Professional Photographers
Effective June 15, 2006, a permit is needed for professional and commercial photo shoots.

When is a permit needed?

All commercial filming activities taking place within a unit of the National Park system require a permit. Commercial filming includes capturing a moving image on film and video as well as sound recordings.

Still photographers require a permit when

1. the activity takes place at location(s) where or when members of the public are generally not allowed; or
2. the activity uses model(s), sets(s), or prop(s) that are not a part of the location’s natural or cultural resources or administrative facilities; or
3. Park would incur additional administrative costs to monitor the activity.

How do I apply for apply for a permit?

     Down load an application

Please submit a completed application along with the application fee to the park at least fourteen (14) days in advance of your planned date. In addition, you should request a meeting with park staff if your proposed activity is unusual or complex. Early consultation with park staff will help them process the application in a timely manner once it is submitted.

What fees will I have to pay?

The National Park Service is authorized to collect two fees; cost recovery fee and a location fee.

Cost recovery includes the application fee of $50.00, which must be submitted with your application, Additional cost recovery fees may be collected, depending on the size and complexity of your permit.

In addition, the National Park Service has been directed by Congress to collect a location fee to provide a fair return to the United States for the use of park lands. The National Park Service uses the following location fee schedule:

Commercial Filming/Videos		Still Photography
1 - 2 people, camera & tripod only	$0/day
1 - 10 people	$150/day	1 - 10 people	$50/day
11 - 30 people	$250/day	11 - 30 people	$150/day
31 - 49 people	$500/day	Over 30 people	$250/day
Over 50 people	$750/day

Are there other permit requirements?

You may be required to obtain liability insurance naming the United States as additionally insured in an amount commensurate with the risk posed to park resources by your proposed activity. You may also be asked to post a bond to ensure the payment of all charges and fees and the restoration of the area if necessary.

Regulations

RM53 - Special Park Uses
Table of Contents
Appendix 13: Filming and Photography
Appendix 13, Exh. 1: Still Photography
Appendix 13, Exh. 2: Application for Photography/Filming Permit - Short Form 
Appendix 13, Exh. 3: Application for Photography/Filming Permit - Long Form 
Appendix 13, Exh. 5: Permit Information Sheet
Appendix 13, Exh. 6: Permit Conditions
Appendix 13, Exh. 8: Glossary of Terms and Titles