Dear Editor,

Thank you for the opportunity to respond to the letter, which appeared in the Observer of Tuesday, June 11, 2013.

As is customary worldwide, heritage sites and museums use photography policies as tools to safeguard the intellectual property of these national monuments and, in some instances, to generate revenue for self-funding entities. At Devon House, ours was also created to assist in protecting the mansion and its artifacts, as well as maintaining the surrounding lawns and gardens of our 11-acre site.

Visitors are permitted to take private, non-commercial photography across the property, including the mansion’s exterior. Any photography shoots, professional or amateur, which utilise professional equipment (ie zoom and multiple lenses, tripods, lights, detachable flash, umbrellas, diffusers, etc) require authorisation and may attract a charge.

To reproduce or publish images containing any part of the Devon House grounds or mansion, including advertisements, weddings and other portrait photography, or to publish photography or video (including online images), the publisher must receive permission from Devon House Development Company Limited via its Marketing and Events Department.

Patrons may, however, utilise their personal (non-commercial) images, and we in fact encourage them to share these images, as long as they are not being traded commercially or used to market a business in any way.

Devon House reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to withhold and/or withdraw permission to photograph on its premises or to reproduce photographs containing exterior and/or interior images of the mansion and its collection.

We continue to welcome all visitors to our property, especially those who are happy to contribute to the welfare of this fine location. Their continued contribution allows us the opportunity to provide access to all to enjoy these surroundings.

Andre W Reid

Marketing and Events Manager

Devon House