Photography Policy

Salk Institute for Biological Studies - Photography Policy

Photography and Videography Policy


The following policy governs all photography and videography on the Salk Institute campus. These rules apply to all visitors, including guests of Salk employees. They are not exhaustive. The Salk Institute is private property and reserves the right to deny or revoke access to any individual whose actions are disruptive or in violation of these policies. Salk staff and security may require violators to leave the premises.


News Media

Journalists can arrange photo and video shoots with the Institute’s media relations team. For more information contact press@salk.edu. Non-journalists should email communications@salk.edu.

Commercial Photography

Professional and commercial photography is strictly prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Documentaries
  • Photography intended for gallery exhibition or sale
  • Portrait photography, including wedding, engagement, graduation, family photos, etc.
  • Portfolio photography

Questions may be directed to: communications@salk.edu

Recreational Photography and Videography

Recreational photography and videography are permitted under the following conditions:

  • Allowed only during docent-led tours
  • Limited to one handheld camera for personal use
  • Tour groups may not be delayed or interrupted for extensive photography

The following are strictly prohibited:

  • Props, costumes, or special lighting equipment (including off-camera flashes)
  • Formal and commissioned photography or videography (e.g., wedding, engagement, graduation, family portraits, model portfolios, student projects)
  • Drone use
  • Selfie sticks

Contact Information

For further information, please call (858) 453-4100 x1371 or email communications@salk.edu.


Legal Disclaimer

All photographs and video recordings taken on the Salk Institute premises are for personal, noncommercial use only. Unauthorized use, reproduction, publication, distribution, or sale of any images or recordings captured on Salk property—whether for commercial, educational, promotional, or media purposes—is strictly prohibited without prior written consent from the Salk Institute.