Filming and Photography
Photography for personal enjoyment is encouraged at the Mission. Visitors are allowed to take informal vacation-style snapshots and nature and architecture photos. Still scenic photography is permitted for private, noncommercial use only. Posed portrait photography requires an advanced reservation. View photography packages and pricing below.
Photographs may not be published, sold, reproduced, transferred, distributed, or used commercially in any manner. The use of flash photography is permitted unless otherwise stated.
Mission San Juan Capistrano reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to withhold and/or withdraw permission to photograph on its premises or to reproduce photographs of objects in its Collections. Policies have been outlined to provide further information on how to gain necessary approvals for various photography needs.
Photography Packages for You and Your Photographer
New Pricing Effective July 1, 2022
Wedding Package (includes both videography and photography) – We Do Not Provide a Photographer
Duration: 2 Hours
Guest(s): 1-10 Cost: $300 (Photography members to receive $25 discount)
Guests: 11-24 guests Cost: $500 (Photography member and non-member price)
* For guest count over 24, please contact the Group Bookings Department at (949) 234-1306
Engagement and Pre-Wedding Package (includes both videography and photography) – We Do Not Provide a Photographer
• Duration: 1.5 Hours
• Guest(s): 2
• Cost: $200 (non-member) $175 (Photography member)
Quinceanera Package (includes both photography and videography) – We Do Not Provide a Photographer
• Duration: 2 Hours
• Guest(s): 1-10
• Cost: $300 (Photography members to receive $25 discount)
Portrait Package (photography only) – We Do Not Provide a Photographer
Engagement • Maternity • Family • Headshots • Quinceanera • Graduation • Etc.
• Duration: 1 Hour
• Guest(s): 1-5 (or every 5)
• Cost (Tuesday through Sunday): $80 (non-member) $50 (Photography member)
• Cost (Monday): $100 (non-member) $50 (Photography member)
Are you in need of a photographer? Book your session with a Mission Preservation Society Photography Member! View list of current Photography Members.
The “guest count” is referring to the guests to be photographed (not the photographers/videographers/assistants.) Clothing changes are permitted under the Wedding, Engagement and Pre-Wedding, and Quinceanera Packages or when 2 hours are booked under the Portrait Package.
All payments are non-refundable, however, we would be happy to reschedule a photography reservation without penalty should the photographer or client not be able to arrive as scheduled, even the day of the shoot.
See What Visitors are Saying…
“Beautiful grounds and stunning location for engagement and wedding portraits. I was able to reserve a weekday to take engagement photos last summer. It was conveniently closed to the public on the day we did our shoot. Meghann from the mission was wonderful to communicate with when we were figuring out dates and times of our reservations. Don’t let the hourly rate for the photography permit deter you. It is SO worth it and you get to support a historical chapel and landmark. Win!” – Margarita G.
High School Formal Dance
Formal dances can be some of the most enchanting events that you get to attend. Capture the magic of your special night with historic Mission San Juan Capistrano as your backdrop. Please wear appropriate clothing for Mission grounds. Clothes that are revealing or inappropriate are not permitted on church property.
Photography Guidelines
Mission San Juan Capistrano welcomes visitors, professional and commercial photographers as well as members of the media on our grounds according to the policies and procedures outlined below.
“Vacation-style” or impromptu photography/videography is permitted throughout the grounds without a reservation.
• No flash photography or tripods, monopods, or selfie sticks in buildings; they may be used in the gardens but may not be placed in plant beds, benches or blocking pathways.
• Additional photographic equipment such as lights, reflectors, props, costumes, models are prohibited, except under permit or commercial contract.
• Drones are not permitted.
• No climbing on the walls, arcades, ruins, or any physical and historic structure that makes up the Mission.
• No wedding officiants or ceremony’s permitted onsite.
All posed photography, both commercial and non-commercial, require a permit in advance. Walk-ins are not permitted.
• Non-commercial, posed, photography includes, but is not limited to: maternity and family portraits, wedding and engagement photography, graduation and prom portraits, quinceañeras and company team photos.
• Permit fees and insurance are required in advance. To apply for a photography permit and reserve a session time, book online or contact the Group Bookings Department at bookings@missionsjc.com or (949) 234-1306.
• Commercial filming and photography are permitted by appointment only. Location fees, permits, and insurance are required, certain restrictions may apply. Learn more or contact the Group Bookings Department at bookings@missionsjc.com or (949) 234-1306.
Protecting the Mission as a Landmark
The Mission is a place of spiritual and historical meaning. Our guests come from around the world, as a place of peace and inspiration it deserves behavior on site that is in keeping with providing the best possible guest experience. Any issues or concerns my be directed to the Executive Director.
Reservation slots are limited, therefore, please call in advance to check availability. Additionally, please be aware that Mission preservation projects or special event days may not allow for photography or may exclude access to a particular area on site at any given time.
Mission San Juan Capistrano may photograph, film, or videotape visitors for educational and promotional purposes. Use of a ticket is implied consent for the use of the holder’s likeness, voice, or video image for marketing purposes.
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