Franklin Dean
Public parks are a popular choice for wedding ceremonies and photos due to their picturesque settings. However, there are often limitations and permit requirements for various aspects such as sound, site rental, and guest entry. Some parks may require a permit specifically for commercial photography, while others may have rules against amplification or certain types of equipment. It is important to check with park staff and be aware of any restrictions before planning a wedding or photo shoot in a public park. Additionally, it is worth considering the impact of weather conditions, the presence of park visitors, and the availability of indoor spaces or backup plans.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Commercial photography | May require a permit |
| Wedding ceremonies | Possible in some parks |
| Wedding photos | Possible in some parks |
| Park visitors | May still roam areas where weddings are held |
| Amplification | May not be allowed |
| Structures | May not be available |
| Power | May not be available |
| Cost | May require payment for permits and/or rental |
| Availability | May depend on scheduled activities/events/operations |
| Location | May need to consider proximity to walking paths |
| Weather | Could be hot/humid |
| Bugs/animals | May be present |
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What You'll Learn
Permits and reservations
When it comes to permits and reservations for wedding photos in public parks, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to note that requirements and regulations may vary depending on your location and the specific park you plan to visit. Therefore, it's always a good idea to check with the local parks and recreation department or the park staff directly.
In some cases, you may need to obtain a permit for taking wedding photos in a public park. This is particularly true if you plan to have a larger wedding party or bring additional equipment, such as chairs, tables, or sound amplification devices. Permits may also be required for specific aspects of your wedding, such as site rental, guest entry, or the use of certain facilities. These permits can often come with associated costs, so it's essential to include them in your budget. It's worth noting that obtaining permits doesn't necessarily grant you exclusive access to the park, and other park visitors may still be present during your wedding.
To obtain the necessary permits, you may need to contact the local government or the park's administration. They will provide you with the required forms and information about any applicable fees. In some cases, you may even be able to reserve your desired location within the park to ensure you have a designated space for your wedding ceremony or photoshoot.
Additionally, some parks may have specific rules and restrictions regarding wedding activities. For example, certain parks may prohibit the setup of any kind of equipment or may have restrictions on sound amplification. It's crucial to familiarize yourself with these rules beforehand to avoid any last-minute surprises.
Furthermore, it's a good idea to consider the impact of your wedding on other park users. In some cases, a permit may be required specifically to address potential disruptions or conflicts with the public's enjoyment of the park. By obtaining the necessary permits and following the park's regulations, you can help ensure that your wedding proceeds smoothly without causing any unnecessary disturbances.
Overall, when planning a wedding in a public park, it's essential to stay informed about the specific requirements, permits, and reservations needed. By doing so, you can create a memorable and enjoyable experience while also respecting the rules and regulations in place.
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Park policies
For example, in St. Louis, a permit is required for commercial photography within parks, and there are specific criteria that must be met to obtain this permit. The federal district court found that the permit criteria were reasonably specific and objective, allowing for consideration of the content of the expression involved. The court also noted that other parks in the area offered attractive landscapes for outdoor wedding and portrait photography, satisfying the "ample-alternative-channels requirement."
On the other hand, some parks may have more relaxed policies. For instance, some public parks in Arizona allow alcohol to be served by a licensed bartender, and you can bring in your own vendors for catering, DJ services, etc. Additionally, some parks may offer indoor areas as a backup plan in case of inclement weather.
It is important to note that obtaining permits does not necessarily make the space private, and park visitors may still roam the area. This is something to consider when choosing a park for your wedding photos or ceremony.
Additionally, there may be restrictions on the type of equipment you can bring into the park, such as chairs, decorations, and sound amplification. Some parks may have specific rules regarding setup or equipment, such as the Independence National Historical Park, which prohibits any setup or equipment, including tables, tents, chairs, and amplified sound.
It is always a good idea to visit the park in advance to check for potential issues, such as bugs, animal activity, and foot traffic. This will help you determine if the park is a suitable location for your wedding photos or ceremony and allow you to make any necessary preparations or adjustments.
Overall, it is essential to research and understand the specific park policies before planning a wedding or taking wedding photos in a public park. By doing so, you can ensure that you have the necessary permits, are aware of any restrictions, and can make your special day a memorable and enjoyable experience.
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Costs and budgeting
When it comes to costs and budgeting for wedding photos in a public park, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the location of the park can impact the overall cost. Some parks may charge a permit fee for wedding ceremonies, which can range from $50 to $100 or more, depending on the specific park and location. It's important to check with the local parks department to understand their policies and any associated costs.
Secondly, the services and packages offered by your chosen photographer will affect the budget. Wedding photographer prices typically range from $1,150 to $3,000, with the average cost being around $2,000. However, prices can vary based on factors such as the photographer's experience, level of expertise, event guest count, date, and geographic region. Some photographers may include engagement photo sessions in their packages, while others may charge separately for these shoots, ranging from $150 to over $600.
Additionally, consider any extra costs that may be incurred for specific requests or services. For example, if you require additional equipment, such as chair rentals, decorations, or sound amplification, there may be additional fees or permits required. It's important to discuss these details with your photographer and the park management to ensure there are no surprises.
Furthermore, don't forget to factor in the cost of prints or albums. While some photographers include photo prints or print credits in their packages, purchasing prints separately can enhance their quality. Be aware that you may not own the copyright to your photos, and additional charges may apply if you wish to purchase the full copyright release.
Lastly, when budgeting, consider any travel or accommodation expenses for your photographer, especially if the park location is remote or requires a significant journey. It is customary to cover these costs and ensure their comfort and convenience. Remember to clarify these details in your contract to avoid misunderstandings.
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Lighting and timing
Lighting
- Natural light is the most important consideration when choosing locations for photos. Look for a park with good natural light, and consider the time of day and year when the light will be at its best.
- The "golden hour," or the hour before sunset, is considered the best time for photos, as the light is soft and beautiful. Plan to take the bulk of your couple portraits during this time.
- If you're getting married in winter, a ceremony at 2-3 pm can provide epic light for photos. Photographers also love grey days, as the light is soft and diffused.
- For indoor photos, choose a large, clutter-free room with neutral wall colours and lots of windows. White walls are ideal as they reflect light. Avoid artificial lighting, such as overhead lights and lamps, as they create a harsh, yellow glow.
- If possible, avoid direct sunlight, as it can be too bright and create harsh shadows.
Timing
- Begin by checking the sunset time on your wedding day and work backward from there. For example, if the sunset is at 7:15 pm, you could set your ceremony for 6 pm, ensuring pretty light and enough time for guests to enjoy cocktail hour before dinner.
- Consider doing a "first look" before the ceremony to get a chunk of photos done and make the most of the golden hour light. This can include couple portraits, wedding party photos, and immediate family photos.
- If you're doing a first look, the couple should be tucked away about 30 minutes before the ceremony starts, as guests will be arriving and you don't want to be out in the open taking photos.
- Immediately following the ceremony, you can take extended family photos and sunset portraits, as the lighting will still be magical.
- Allocate about 20 minutes for a first look and 20-30 minutes for wedding party photos. If you plan to include group photos during the first look, add an extra 30 minutes to an hour.
- If you want more control over lighting and timing, you can opt for a bridal session, which is a photo shoot in your wedding attire that usually occurs a week or two following your wedding day.
Remember to check the policies of the specific public park you plan to use for your wedding photos, as there may be restrictions on timing and other considerations.
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Privacy and exclusivity
When it comes to privacy and exclusivity, public parks may not be the ideal venue for your wedding. While they offer picturesque settings, there are often limitations that you should consider.
Firstly, public parks are just that – public. Even if you obtain a permit, it does not guarantee exclusive use of the space. Other park visitors may still be present, roaming the area, which could disrupt the ambiance of your wedding. This lack of privacy is an important factor to keep in mind when deciding on a park wedding.
Additionally, there may be restrictions on certain activities and setups. Some parks have rules against amplification and the use of certain equipment, such as chairs, tables, or tents. If you plan to have music or amplified sound, or a particular setup in mind, be sure to check the park's policies beforehand.
Permits are often required for various aspects of a wedding in a public park, including sound, site rental, and even guest entry. The permitting process is typically managed by the local parks department or a similar authority. These permits can vary in cost, so budgeting is essential.
Furthermore, consider the location's popularity and foot traffic. Even if you have a permit, you may not be able to restrict access to certain paths or areas within the park. This could impact the privacy and exclusivity of your wedding, especially if it is a small, intimate gathering.
To enhance privacy and exclusivity, consider choosing a park with secluded spots, such as Gale Woods Farm, which offers a secluded location with a vista over Whaletail Lake, providing a more intimate setting for your ceremony. Alternatively, parks with panoramic views, such as Hyland Hills, can also provide a sense of exclusivity, as you exchange vows at one of the highest points in the county.
In conclusion, while public parks offer beautiful settings for weddings, they may not always provide the level of privacy and exclusivity desired. It is crucial to research the specific park's policies, consider the potential presence of other park visitors, and explore options for more secluded or exclusive locations within the park to ensure your wedding day aligns with your vision.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, some public parks require a permit or pass for professional photography. These often need to be purchased in advance.
You can contact the local parks and rec department or board of trustees to find out about permits.
You can! But you may need to reserve the park and pay to rent it. You'll also need to check the park's policies on things like sound amplification, decorations, and alcohol.
Hyland Hills in Hennepin County, Silverwood Park, and Gale Woods Farm are all recommended for wedding photos.
Consider the landscape, lighting, and how busy the park is. You may want to visit the park in advance to check for bugs, animal tracks, and how many people walk by.
