Taking photos in churches...

[Lisa B]

Sorry, i wasn't sure which forum to post this in, but, I want to take some pictures of my local church. Am i supposed to get per mission to photograph it or not? Does anyone know how im supposed to know which buildings i need permission for and which i dont?!

Thanks

Lisa xx

 

[LaFoto]

I think we can move this to Photograhic Discussions, since it is a topic you want to discuss/get answers and it is about photography and is not off topic.

As to when you may or must not photograph in churches ... I wouldn't know. I have visited many churches in England and Ireland (much to DH's utmost dismay, he used to go all :roll: over me and stay outside sighing one exasperated sigh after the other), and I have photographed in each and every one of them without ever asking anybody. Often church wardens were in there and saw me take photos and never said a word, either.

Same about churches here in Germany. There was one in Eberswalde where - when the warden came to us to explain some of the treasures of the church - I asked if I were allowed to photograph some, and she said she'll make an exception and take us somewhere where not everyone was allowed to go, so that was especially nice.

Which shows that being nice may make other people be nice in return.

In American churches I learned you make take photos, but leave away your flash (which I do automatically in ANY church, since it won't reach anyway) and don't use a tripod. But then tripods seem to be problems in many places and many countries...

So if you want to do very detailed photos of the kind you might sell or have printed or so, best ask beforehand. Tourist snaps are often allowed, (seemingly) professional work is not. And to mount the camera onto a tripod sure looks "professional" to a good many...

You might want to PM tb2 on this matter. He is quite the specialist on British Churches inside and out!

 

[Lisa B]

Thanks, that was somewhat in depth and useful I might have a wander down there (to the church) later and take some pics outside and see how comfortable i feel doing that before i get too involved. I was thinking about the cemetary too but thought there might be some kinda privacy thing there, i dont know.

I dont know much today

I have shed loads of pics of London from my weekend....maybe ill post some...

 

[Fangman]

Most English churches allow pictures to be taken at any time other than during a service if they are open to visitors. Some cathedrals and major tourist attractions may not permit this without special permission or in most cases the purchase of a permit. If there is someone on duty it is always best to ask and if Ok ask if flash is permitted. Having taken pictures of the interiors of churches since the 1950's I have rarely been refused. Many of our country churches are now kept locked but usually there is a contact posted near or on the door where you can obtain a key.
As well as the excape from the hurly-burly of life to a place of tranquility, there are some beautiful treasures to discover and photograph. Go and enjoy!