Lexington Cemetery Bans Professional Photography
Table of Contents
- 1. Lexington Cemetery Bans Professional Photography
- 2. What are the potential consequences of this new policy on the local photography community?
- 3. Lexington Cemetery’s New Photography Policy Sparks Debate
- 4. an Interview with Miles T. Penn, Grounds Manager of Lexington Cemetery
- 5. Perspectives from Local Photographers
- 6. What are your thoughts on this policy change? Share your opinions in the comments below!
The Lexington Cemetery, known for its lovely cherry blossom trees that attract photographers every spring, has announced a ban on professional photography on its grounds. This decision comes after an increase in professional and commercial photography that the cemetery believes detracts from its serene atmosphere.
Miles T. Penn, the cemetery’s Grounds Manager, stated, “Increasingly, people are attempting to use the cemetery to take photographs and videos- sometimes for professional or commercial purposes-that we feel are inconsistent with the cemetery’s serene image of beauty and dignity. While we invite the public to enjoy the garden and park atmosphere of The Lexington Cemetery, we are obliged to protect the dignity of those resting here and the expectations of their family and friends.”
Penn added, “At this time, we decline to allow professional photographers to use the cemetery as a backdrop or venue for commercial photo work until such time as we consider and develop guidelines for using the cemetery. This will likely result in a procedure whereby visitors and photographers can request in advance and in writing permission to use the cemetery for photography. likewise, our website already has a page on rules and guidelines for visitors to follow and this is the next logical step. This is not uncommon for cemeteries and memorial parks and estates such as ours. For instance, Ashland, the Henry Clay estate now requires all photographers using the grounds to have permits.”
Tadeo Reyes, owner of F/2.0 photography, has been capturing stunning images at Lexington Cemetery as 2019. “I think it’s just very unique and beautiful location,” said Reyes. Reyes explained that he had previously contacted the cemetery to confirm permission for photography,but this year was met with a new policy.
Alex Desha, owner of Zebra Spoonie Photography, acknowledges the cemetery’s position. While agreeing with the need for respect, she hopes future guidelines will allow for responsible professional photography. “I definitely understand it,” said Desha. “I wish people would have been more respectful last year. I know that we saw a lot of people parking where they shouldn’t have been, when we were setting up, but all the people that I took photos with were really respectful of their surroundings and really careful not to disturb anything.”
As photographers adapt to this change, Reyes looks forward to finding alternative locations. “I think maybe a lot of photographers will be disappointed that they can’t go there this year, but at the same time I do think that everything happens for a reason, so ya, we will just go with it,” Reyes said.
while the ban may bring short-term disappointment, the cemetery’s focus on preserving its dignified atmosphere and respecting the final resting place of its visitors is paramount.
For photographers, this situation highlights the importance of proactively understanding location rules and regulations. Remember to always contact the relevant authorities before planning professional photography shoots in any public space, especially sensitive locations like cemeteries.
What are the potential consequences of this new policy on the local photography community?
Lexington Cemetery’s New Photography Policy Sparks Debate
The Lexington Cemetery,renowned for its breathtaking cherry blossom displays,recently implemented a ban on professional photography on its grounds. Archyde spoke with Miles T. Penn, the cemetery’s Grounds Manager, and two local photographers, tadeo Reyes and Alex Desha, to understand the reasoning behind this decision and its impact on the photography community.
an Interview with Miles T. Penn, Grounds Manager of Lexington Cemetery
Archyde: Mr. Penn, can you explain the rationale behind the ban on professional photography at Lexington Cemetery?
Miles T. Penn: We’ve seen a meaningful increase in professional and commercial photography on our grounds, and while we encourage people to enjoy the cemetery’s beauty, we believe this trend has started to detract from the serene atmosphere we strive to maintain. Our primary focus is to honor the memory of those interred here and ensure the comfort and dignity of thier families and visitors.
Archyde: How will this new policy be enforced,and what guidance will you provide to photographers in the future?
Miles T. Penn: We’re currently developing a formalized procedure where photography requests will need to be submitted in writing and approved in advance. This will ensure that any photography conducted on our grounds aligns with the cemetery’s values and respects the sanctity of the space. This approach is common practice in many cemeteries and historical sites.
Perspectives from Local Photographers
Archyde: Tadeo reyes, you’ve captured stunning images at Lexington Cemetery as 2019. How do you feel about the new policy?
tadeo Reyes: I understand the cemetery’s position. Lexington Cemetery offers a unique and lovely backdrop for photography. While I’m disappointed about the change, I respect their decision.I’ll explore new locations for my work and hope to find equally inspiring settings.
Archyde: Alex Desha, owner of zebra Spoonie photography, your viewpoint on the new policy?
Alex Desha: While I agree with the need for respect, I hope future guidelines will allow for responsible professional photography.Many photographers, myself included, strive to be mindful of the surroundings and minimize any disturbance.
Archyde: Mr. Penn, what message would you like to convey to photographers and the public regarding this new policy?
Miles T. Penn: Our primary concern is to preserve the dignity and serenity of Lexington Cemetery for everyone. While we appreciate the artistic endeavors of photographers, it’s essential to respect the sacred nature of this space. We hope individuals will understand and adhere to our new guidelines.
