Photography Policies

Newlin Grist Mill is a treasure trove for photographers. The historic areas provide unique opportunities to photograph architecture and historic landscapes. The hiking trails wind through a variety of habitats with diverse plants and animal species. Whether you are interested in history or nature, the 160-acre property is filled with special places of inspiration in every season. Visitors are welcome to explore the park and take pictures for their personal use. Please review our informal photography policy below.

It takes year-round maintenance by Newlin Grist Mill’s staff and volunteers to keep the site photogenic. Photography fees support these efforts and ensure that the park remains beautiful for future photographers, safe for visitors, and healthy for our plants and animals. Please do your part by completing photography applications thoroughly and submitting them in a timely manner.  

Informal Photography Policy

Amateur photographers, individuals, and families are welcome to explore the park and take pictures for their personal use only. Photos and videos taken on the property may not be sold or used for any commercial purposes. Visitors taking a tour of the Mill and Miller’s House may take pictures inside, but photo shoots are not permitted in the historic buildings. Amateur photographers, individuals, and families are welcome to take images in all of the public areas, but please remember to be courteous of our spaces and other park visitors.

Please note: Wedding, bridal, and other formal photography sessions are subject to the formal photography guidelines as described below.

Formal Photography Policy

Formal photography is subject to a site fee of $50.00 (paid prior to the session) and must be scheduled through the Visitor Center a minimum of 24 hours in advance. A completed contract (all lines filled in legibly and signed) must be submitted to Newlin Grist Mill and approved by the site’s rental coordinator, and photographers must check in at the office upon arrival at the Newlin Grist Mill property. Only one session is permitted on the property at a time and dates fill quickly so be sure to reserve early. Scheduled sessions must be between the hours of 9am and 4pm. 

Formal photography sessions are defined as sessions where any of the following occur:

1. The primary purpose of your visit is to take photos of your family or group.

2. You are accompanied by a photographer (professional or amateur) specifically for the purpose of taking photographs.

3. You are wearing formal clothing, costume, or attire specifically for the photography session and are being photographed in purposeful settings/poses.

4. You have brought props or specialized equipment to use during the photography session.​

Examples of formal photography sessions include but are not limited to:

1. Wedding and Bridal Shoots

2. Birthday Photo Shoots

3. Family Photography

4. Graduation, Prom, or Homecoming Photography

5. Engagement Shoots

6. Reunion Photography

7. Head Shots and Fashion Photography

8. Pet Portraits

9. Maternity, Child, and Baby Photographs
   Formal settings are not permitted inside any of the historic buildings. The photography session must not interfere with the enjoyment of Newlin Grist Mill’s other guests.  Any props used must not alter or damage the site.

Click here for a printable photo session application. 

Commercial photography sessions are scheduled at the discretion of the director. Contact 610.459.2359 or info@newlingristmill.org for rates and fees.