Photography Guidelines

The Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea is a historic landmark that reflects the deep, rich roots of our Episcopal faith and the Palm Beach community. We are a privately-owned property, serving our members and the community. Visitors are welcome to enjoy our buildings and gardens, and we encourage you to pause and experience these holy grounds for what they are.

In consideration of issues of privacy, security, potential disruption of services, and, most importantly, respect for the sacred space, please abide by the following guidelines:

GENERAL

  • Respectful dress is expected when visiting the grounds, as well as for photography.
  • No confetti, flower petals, or other props are permitted.
  • No drones are permitted on the property.
  • No Photo Permits Will Be Issued On Sundays.

VISITORS

  • The church and gardens are open to visitors from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday; 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Photographs may be taken during this time, unless a service is in progress, in which case no photography or videography is permitted on the grounds at all.

CONTRACTED PHOTOGRAPHY

  • Photography by a contracted provider (professional photographer) is possible only after approval of an application for such activity and payment of a non-refundable $100 donation. To apply for a photography permit, please fill out the form. Consideration will be given to time of year, length of stay, access, and nature of photography requested.
  • Contracted photography is not permitted inside the church, chapels, or columbarium.
  • One piece of equipment, such as a flash, is permitted in addition to a handheld camera.
  • Permit allows use of the campus for photography for up to two hours.  Note there may be other visitors in the area, or vicinity, during your scheduled time.
  • No Videography.
  • No Photo Permits Will Be Issued On Sundays.

COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHY / VIDEOGRAPHY

  • Photography/videography for commercial purposes is not permitted.

WEDDING

  • Wedding photography/videography is reserved for those who have been married at The Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea or will be married at The Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea.

PROM / GRADUATION

  • To obtain a photo permit for Prom / Graduation photos on the campus, please contact the church office.

All permits may be revoked by any church employee at any point by violation of these guidelines; the donation is non-refundable. If you have questions about any of these guidelines, please contact the church office at (561) 655-4554.

Photography Permit
Standard minimum donation of $100 for professional photographers to use Bethesda’s grounds as a setting. Tourist may take pictures without permit. https://bbts.org/qgiv/

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For More Information

Please contact the church office at (561) 655-4554.