Media Photography and Filming Policy
Media may request access to photograph or film exhibitions, collection galleries, and programs of the Freer|Sackler. All media photography and filming is limited to a maximum of two hours and requires supervision from a staff member in the Office of Marketing and Communications. Due to the high volume of requests, we ask that you submit your request at least three business days in advance; any filmed or recorded interview requests with Freer|Sackler curators or other staff must be made at least one week in advance. We will do our best to accommodate urgent deadlines or extended filming whenever possible.
Tripods and photography will not be allowed under any circumstances in certain galleries unless accompanied by a staff member from the Office of Marketing and Communications.
To protect artwork, light levels cannot exceed 5 foot-candles, or 50 lux (see our Environmental Requirements for Filming and Photographing Works of Art).
Please note: the filming of children is prohibited unless the accompanied adult gives verbal and/or written consent.
Documentary Filming
Private documentary companies that wish to film or use Smithsonian content, please refer to our FAQ sheet and filming application. To request images, please see the Rights and Reproduction page.
For further questions or to request an appointment, please direct all inquiries to PressAsia@si.edu or 202.633.0271.