Photography & Video Footage Guidelines for Individuals or Crews During the 12 Days of the State Fair
Note: If you are looking to take photographs or video footage during the non-fair time on the fairgrounds, please contact the non-fair events department at events@mnstatefair.org.
Photography and video are allowed on the fairgrounds during the 12 days of the fair as long as the following guidelines are adhered to (this applies to media, amateur photographers and individuals using their cell phone or hand-held device for videos, photos and/or streaming).
- All individuals or crews taking still photographs or video footage must be self-contained and “mobile” with no free-standing equipment such as lights, backdrops, electrical cords, etc.
- Individuals or crews cannot impede foot or vehicle traffic or interfere with any exhibit, vendor space, performance or fair guest experience (this includes a request to suspend operations of any of those listed above to accommodate a shoot)
- Video footage or photography of free entertainment and Grandstand shows, without prior permission, is strictly prohibited. Please contact the marketing department to request permission at media@mnstatefair.org.
- There is no unauthorized use of photo, video and sound equipment permitted on any of the rides or ticketed attractions. Please contact the marketing department with any specific questions at media@mnstatefair.org.
- Commercial use and the sale of photographs, video and film taken at the Minnesota State Fair horse and livestock show are strictly prohibited without the full consent of the Minnesota State Fair marketing or competition departments, as the State Fair contracts with official photographers for this right. Horse and livestock show spectators are allowed to photograph exhibitors and animals as long as they do not sell the photos or place a photographer’s logo on any images.
- The Minnesota State Fair prohibits unauthorized operation or use of any unmanned aerial vehicle on or above the Minnesota State Fairgrounds year-round. This includes all UAVs, commonly known as “drones,” regardless of commercial or recreational purpose. Any UAV(s) observed at or near the Minnesota State Fairgrounds will be reported to local law enforcement and the Federal Aviation Administration.
- Individuals or crews taking photographs or gathering video footage cannot advertise or distribute any promotional materials or information (such as flyers, stickers, buttons, brochures, etc.) while on the fairgrounds.
- The Minnesota State Fair has an “everyone pays” policy which means we do not provide any media credentials in the way of admission tickets and we do not provide parking credentials either. All videographers/photographers and talent must purchase their own ride, game, attraction and Grandstand tickets, as well as food and merchandise.
- The Minnesota State Fair cannot grant permission to photograph company logos on concession stands or exhibits. Videographers/photographers are responsible for seeking permission from the business owner(s).
- The Minnesota State Fair cannot grant permission for still photography, video recording or interviews. Videographers/photographers are responsible for seeking permission (if it is required) from the individual(s) being photographed, recorded, filmed or interviewed.
- The Minnesota State Fair cannot grant permission to photograph or shoot footage of scenes outside the fairgrounds, as that area is property of the City of Saint Paul. Contact the City of Saint Paul with any questions.
- The Minnesota State Fair reserves the right to terminate any photography or filming on the fairgrounds that it deems inappropriate or intrusive.
Special Note: If you wish to get footage and/or interviews for a television show or series, commercial, special news segment, documentary, film or broadcast program, etc. that requires any special considerations, you must contact the marketing department to obtain permission at least 30 days prior to the start of the current year’s fair at media@mnstatefair.org. Please include as many details as you can in your email request.
If you have additional questions, please contact the marketing department at media@mnstatefair.org.
