Meadow Brook Hall Clarifies New Photography Policy

You can certainly admire Rochester's National Historic Landmark. But before you head to Meadow Brook Hall to take photos, there's a new policy to note.

Since it was , Meadow Brook Hall has seen an increase in professional photographers and videographers wanting to use the grounds for their work.

As a result, Meadow Brook recently posted signs indicating that no photography is allowed on the grounds. Readers of Rochester Patch who expressed concerns about the policy, so we asked for a clarification. 

Here's what Meadow Brook officials had to say:

"Meadow Brook's 'photography not allowed on the grounds' signs are meant to discourage photographers who use the building, gardens and grounds for professional backdrops and commercial gain. Given that it is a National Historic Landmark, Meadow Brook's images have value and since the operation is self-supporting, that value has to be protected. 

"Also, Meadow Brook has experienced dramatically increased public use in recent months from photographers and videographers of all kinds (commercial and non-commercial), who often disrupt private events that The Hall relies on for revenue. When couples, families and businesses pay for exclusive use of the facilities , it is obviously not fair when people who are not paying disrupt events. Weddings would be a good example.

"Of course we allow visitors who tour The Hall to take souvenir photos of the exterior of the building and the gardens and grounds - as we do with our attendees of our special events like Jazz in the Garden, the Wild Game Dinner, Holiday Walk...and community events such as the recent Hug the Hall picnic and balloon release. In fact, we received dozens if not hundreds of great photos of that event from attendees."