Can You Take Photos in a Cemetery?

Families photograph headstones for relatives far away, genealogists record old stones, and photographers love historic cemeteries. Most cemeteries allow photography for personal use — with some important limits.

Personal photos

Taking photos of your family's grave, or of historic headstones for genealogy, is allowed almost everywhere. Many families send photos to relatives who can't visit. See how to photograph a headstone and how to research ancestors in a cemetery.

Commercial shoots

Professional photo or video shoots, fashion shoots and filming usually need written permission from the cemetery office, and sometimes a fee or insurance. Some cemeteries ban them entirely.

Funerals and mourners

Never photograph strangers' funerals or people grieving at a grave. At a family funeral, ask the family before taking photos, and keep your phone silent and out of sight during the service.

Drones

Many cemeteries ban drones, and aviation rules in Canada and the U.S. limit flying near people and in some areas. Ask the cemetery and check the rules before flying.

Photo etiquette

• Don't move other families' flowers or decorations for a better shot.
• Don't stand or kneel on graves.
• Don't apply chalk, shaving cream or flour to read worn stones — see how to read a worn headstone.
• Be careful about posting photos that identify recent graves of people you don't know.

Key Takeaways

• Personal and genealogy photos are generally allowed.
• Commercial shoots need permission.
• Never photograph strangers' funerals.
• Don't move decorations or mark stones for photos.

Next Step

See how to photograph a headstone and cemetery etiquette.