Hi Elgin, and all,
We have experienced similar problems at the Cummer Museum. We have recently revised our photography policy as follows:
Photography Policy
To allow for the enjoyment of all visitors to the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, and to help us care for our collection and historic gardens, we appreciate your adherence to the Cummer Museum Photography Policy. Visitors are encouraged to document their experiences with personal, non-commercial photography, using non-flash mobile devices (cell phones, smart phones, and tablets) and cameras throughout the Museum and gardens during normal Museum hours.
· Special exhibitions may prohibit photography. See gallery doors for details.
· Photography equipment is prohibited throughout the Museum and gardens, including but not limited to: flashes, tripods, monopods, wheeled camera bags, reflectors, selfie sticks, and drones.
· Video cameras are prohibited throughout the Museum and gardens.
· Photography sessions are allowed in the Gardens only.
o Visitors involved in a photography session are asked to adhere to the following guidelines:
· Paid admission or Museum membership is required.
· Hand held cameras only. Any additional photography equipment is strictly prohibited.
· Photography equipment such as flashes, tripods, and reflectors are allowed by permit only.
· For required fees, availability, and permit applications, please contact events@cummermuseum.org or for an online application visit cummermuseum.org and click the Visit tab.
· Props and wardrobe changes are strictly prohibited.
· Please be respectful of other visitors in the Gardens.
· Do not obstruct any pathways, accessibility ramps, or disturb planting beds, hedges, or other events in the Gardens or other permitted photography.
· Photography hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, and 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Photography sessions are not permitted on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Permitted photography sessions are to be scheduled at least one week in advance.
Our challenges were mostly during our free days, which are Tuesday evenings and every first Saturday of the month. Guests were using the free admission to bring large groups and were a disruption to other visitors. The other challenges we've experienced were trying to differentiate how to permit and how not to permit. You will see above, that this is our latest attempt to allow personal photography sessions as long as they pay admission and do not use any equipment other than a hand-held camera. If they want equipment, they must pay a permit and it is scheduled during regular museum hours.
I hope this information is helpful. Please don't hesitate to contact me directly for further discussion.
Best-
Kristen
Kristen Zimmerman
Registrar

829 Riverside Avenue
Jacksonville FL 32204
904.899.6020 direct
904.353.4101 fax
cummermuseum.org
Engaging and inspiring through the arts, gardens, and education.