Board of Directors & Staff   Committees   History   Membership Info   FAQs   NANPA Foundation   Link Policy & Logo Usage   Copyrights & Disclaimers	Resource Relations Committee LETTER TO OUTDOOR PHOTOGRAPHER Dear Outdoor Photographer: The North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA) has become aware of several proposals that could impact anyone who attempts to photograph at natural resource areas managed by various state and federal authorities. While most are user friendly, some seem designed to collect revenues by imposing fees and permits on what is subjectively perceived as commercial photography. Since anyone may elect to sell the use of an image taken at such resource areas, NANPA believes that such policies should be fair to all. A person with a long lens has no more environmental impact than one with a point-and-shoot. We are concerned that photographers with big lenses, flashes, or tripods are beginning to be questioned in depth as to their purpose with the intent to charge fees and require permits and insurance. NANPA's Resource Relations Committee has prepared a statement derived from wording in National Park Service policy, recent bills presented in the U.S. Congress, and state legislative proposals. It is intended to assist nature photographers in establishing their rights to take pictures on public lands, such as national and state parks, national forests and BLM property. The following is an excerpt : "This location will not require a permit for photographers, commercial or non-commercial, to go anywhere or to do anything that members of the public are generally allowed to go or do. A permit is required for persons taking photographs of articles of commerce or models for the purpose of commercial advertising." NANPA is interested in fair access for all nature photographers. If you know of a proposed or existing regulation regarding use by photographers on public land that seems unfair, please contact the NANPA Office.         Site Index       Search       Disclaimers       Contact Us   North American Nature Photography Association 10200 West 44th Avenue, Suite 304 Wheat Ridge, CO 80033-2840, USA Phone: 303-422-8527 Fax: 303-422-8894 E-mail: info@nanpa.org   © 2001 All Rights Reserved