The term photography includes still pictures, cinematography (motion pictures), videos and any other process that produces images for reproduction.
Commercial Photography: Photography engaged in for financial gain, including, without limitation, the sale of a photographic image as a product or for use in advertising, motion pictures, portraits, television productions, portfolios, or the archiving of an image by a person who uses photographic skills, equipment, or resources to provide a photographic product for sale.
Staged Photography: A style of photography in which scenes are deliberately arranged or choreographed before being captured. Unlike candid photography, which captures spontaneous moments, staged photography involves careful planning of elements such as lighting, props, subjects, and composition to create a specific narrative, mood, or artistic effect. This technique is commonly used in fine art photography, conceptual photography, advertising, and editorial work.
Candid photography: A style of photography that captures subjects in natural, unposed moments, often without their awareness. This approach aims to document genuine emotions, expressions, and interactions, making the images feel authentic and spontaneous. Candid photography is commonly used in street photography, photojournalism, event photography, and documentary work.
Recreational photography: The practice of taking photographs for personal enjoyment, creative expression, or leisure rather than for professional or commercial purposes. It encompasses various styles, including landscape, wildlife, travel, portrait, and street photography, and is often pursued as a hobby. Recreational photographers may use cameras, smartphones, or other imaging devices to capture moments, scenery, or subjects of personal interest.
Promotional photography: A style of photography used to market, advertise, or promote a product, service, brand, event, or individual. It is designed to attract attention, create a positive impression, and engage a target audience. This type of photography is commonly used in advertising campaigns, social media marketing, corporate branding, and event promotions, often featuring carefully planned compositions, professional lighting, and post-processing to enhance visual appeal.
Educational photography: A type of photography used to inform, teach, or explain concepts visually. It is often used in textbooks, presentations, museums, online courses, and other learning materials to enhance understanding and engagement. This style of photography can include scientific images, historical documentation, instructional step-by-step photos, and visual storytelling to support education in various subjects, from biology and history to art and technology.
Talent: Anyone in front of the camera and includes, but is not limited to: models, actors, hosts, correspondents, presenters, park visitors, cooperators, volunteers, NDSP staff, and concessioner staff.
Open Photography Area: An area designated within a park where individuals may participate in certain types of photography that would typically require a photography permit without needing to obtain the permit. Largescale commercial photography would likely still require a photography permit.
A permit is required if your photo or video shoot includes any of the following:
- Commercial or staged photography (e.g., portraits, social media shoots, advertising, editorial)
- Talent (models, actors, presenters, clients, etc.)
- Props, sets, special effects, or extra equipment
- Park area closures or restricted access
- Possible interference with park visitors
- Any activity tied to advertising, marketing, or selling products
A permit is not required if you are:
- Taking photos or video casually for personal use
- Capturing news events
- Photographing in a designated Open Photography Area
Permit fees are based on the number of people or vehicles involved in your shoot—whichever is larger:
| CLASS | GROUP SIZE OR VEHICLE COUNT | FEE PER DAY |
| A | 1-3 vehicles or 2-15 people | $50 |
| Annual | Same as Class A | $500/year |
| B | 4-7 vehicles or 16-30 people | $200 |
| C | 8-11 vehicles or 31-50 people | $350 |
| D | 12-15 vehicles or 51-75 people | $500 |
| E | 16-20 vehicles or 76-100 people | $800 |
| F | 21-50 vehicles or 101-400 people | $2,100 |
| G | 50+ vehicles or over 400 people | $3,500 |
Note: Entry and parking fees are charged separately and still apply.
Apply at least 30 days before your scheduled shoot.
Submit the following:
- Completed photography application
- Valley of Fire Permit Application
- All other parks: Email the park to retrieve your application packet.
- Certificate of liability insurance (see requirements below)
- Additional insured endorsement form
- Signed park-specific rules and regulations
- $25 non-refundable application fee
Email your application packet to:
- Sand Harbor Applications: [email protected]
- Valley of Fire Applications: [email protected]
- Spring Mountain Ranch Applications: [email protected]
- All other parks: [email protected]
Permit only covers specified dates, times, and locations
- Shoots must occur between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM unless special approval is granted
- No weekend or holiday shoots for larger classes (Class B and above) without prior authorization
- All equipment and props must be removed, and the site returned to its original state
- Overtime or extra staffing costs may apply
- A site visit may be required prior to the shoot
- No nude photography
- No off-road driving or off-trail activity
- No altering, trimming, or damaging vegetation
- No amplified sound unless pre-approved
- Drones require FAA certification and park approval
- Trash and equipment must be removed daily
- Fire, fireworks, or pyrotechnics require additional permits and insurance
- Entry into restricted areas without permission is prohibited
Minimum Coverage:
- $2 million general aggregate
- $1 million per occurrence
Policy must name:
"The State of Nevada, Division of State Parks, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, its officers, employees, and agents as additional insured under the terms of this policy."
Separate Additional Insured Endorsement must be provided.
Policy must be valid for the permit period and tied to your specific application.
Insurance Endorsement Requirements
Fee waivers may be available for:
- Projects that promote Nevada or its state parks through media outlets (TV, magazines, news)
- Educational projects not being used commercially
Waivers are subject to park approval and all other permit conditions still apply.
