Photography is a popular form of art that captures moments and memories for eternity. In the beautiful city of Washington, D.C., there are endless opportunities to capture stunning photographs. However, when it comes to professional photography on federal land, it is essential to obtain a special permit from the National Park Service (NPS). In this article, we will dive into the process of getting a photography permit in Washington, D.C.
Fill Out the Application Form
The first step in obtaining a photography permit is to fill out an application form. This form can be found on the NPS website and should be submitted along with a nonrefundable processing fee of $90. The form includes a section for providing credit card information to cover the application cost. It is important to note that you must have this fee to ensure your application is accepted.
Figure Out Your Location Fee
In addition to the application fee, there is also a location fee based on the number of people being photographed. This fee ranges from $50 for 1-10 people to $750 for 50+ people. It is important to determine the correct location fee and include it in the credit card authorization section of the application form.
Fax, Mail-In, or Walk in Your Application
The completed application form can be faxed, mailed or hand-delivered to the NPS office. It is recommended to fax the application for a faster response time. The mailing address and fax number can be found on the NPS website. Once submitted, it typically takes 7-10 days for the application to arrive by mail.
Wait for Final Permit Approval
After applying, a permit specialist will review and confirm the status of your application. If you need a permit quickly, you can call 202-245-4715 to expedite the process. Once approved, a final permit will be sent via email as a PDF. It is important to have this permit ready on the day of your session. A hard copy can also be printed for convenience.
In conclusion, obtaining a photography permit in Washington, D.C. is a simple process that requires filling out an application form and paying the necessary fees. It is important to plan and apply for the permit at least four days before your session. With proper planning and preparation, you can capture beautiful photographs on federal land in the nation’s capital without any hassle or issues with park rangers.
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