Leeds Museums and Galleries sites are happy to allow photography for personal use in most circumstances, but the rules vary at some sites depending on conservation and security risks and because of the law on copyright i.e. in works of art.
Photography for Personal Use
At most of our sites visitors may take still photographs (this excludes video) for personal use without written permission being obtained. However, we must also protect the wishes of lenders of items and our own commercial interests as we sell postcards and reproductions. Therefore we ask that visitors to our sites to follow the following rules:
- Any photography will be solely for personal use and the images must not be published or reproduced in print or electronically for commercial use or private gain. (If this is the case you must apply for a separate commercial licence).
- If staff have concerns that photography may be for commercial use or private gain then you will be asked to provide ID and sign a disclaimer.
- Flash and tripods must not be used inside museum buildings without written permission.
- Visitors may be asked to stop taking photographs if they are causing concern to staff or a nuisance to others and we ask that you please do not move exhibits or cross barriers.
- Permission may be withdrawn at any time if we feel the level of risk is too high.
- Photography in temporary exhibitions will not normally be allowed at any site.
- Photography of the Leeds Mummy at Leeds City Museum is not allowed because of our policy on the display of human remains.
- Wedding photography is allowed at some sites but a facility charge applies in all cases (professional or amateur photography) and bookings must be made - contact the site for details.
Some sites have additional safeguards due to the nature of the collections. These include Leeds Art Gallery, Temple Newsam House and Lotherton Hall.
Photography for Press Use
Press photographers responding to our press releases are asked to contact the site concerned for information. Many exhibitions come with press images available for use.
Other Commercial Uses
Licences must be sought well in advance for any photography for reproduction, commercial use or private gain. Contact the Commercial Office at Leeds Museum Discovery Centre.