1. Who needs a photography permit?
Anyone being paid to take photos at Lost River Cave is considered a professional photographer and must have a valid annual Photography Permit. This includes photographers shooting family portraits, engagements, senior sessions, maternity photos, or any other paid work. Commercial shoots are not included in this permit and must be scheduled by agreement with park staff.
Note: Photography Permits are not required by professional photographers who have been hired by a client to photograph a rental event at Lost River Cave.
2. Do I need a permit if I’m just taking pictures of my family or nature during a visit?
No. Casual visitors who are taking personal photos during their visit (and are not being paid to do so) do not need a permit. The permit is only required for professional photographers who are being paid for their services.
3. How do I apply for a photography permit?
Complete the free, online Photography Permit Application Form and email a copy of your Certificate of Insurance (COI). Once your application is reviewed and approved, you’ll receive an email confirmation and a private link to schedule your sessions throughout the year. There is a $25/hour fee for each hour time block.
4. Who has right of way?
This permit allows you to use Lost River Cave as a backdrop for photography during normal park operations. Lost River Cave scheduled events, wedding photography, and maintenance activities take priority in all areas of the park.
If a wedding party, event, or staff member is actively using an approved space you wish to photograph, you must wait until their activity is complete before using that area. Your session may need to adjust or relocate as needed to accommodate park operations.
5. What kind of insurance do I need?
Photographers must carry Comprehensive General Liability Insurance for combined bodily injury and property damage with minimum coverage of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 in the aggregate. Your policy must name Lost River Cave as an Additional Insured:
Lost River Cave
2818 Nashville Road
Bowling Green, KY 42101
*Permittees are responsible for submitting an updated Certificate of Insurance upon renewal. Failure to provide a current COI may result in the revocation of the current year’s photography permit.
6. How long is my permit valid?
Permits are valid for the calendar year in which they are approved. You’ll need to reapply and submit updated insurance each January to maintain your status as an approved photographer.
7. How do I book my photography sessions once I’m approved?
Once approved, you’ll receive a private booking link to reserve your sessions. Each 1-hour session costs $25 and must be booked at least one week in advance. The link is for approved photographers only and may not be shared.
8. What if I need to reschedule my shoot?
Raining, client sick, or other unscheduled issues? No problem. Give us a call, and we’ll get you rescheduled.
9. What are the available session times?
Sessions are booked in 1-hour time blocks between 8:00 am and 8:00 pm, depending on daylight hours. You’ll see available slots on the booking calendar when you schedule.
10. Where can I take photos in the park?
Photography is allowed on public trails and open park areas. Restricted areas include the Cave tour path, parking areas, driveways, off-path, forested areas, and historic structures. Please do not block paths, disturb wildlife, or disrupt other visitors.
11. What do I do when I arrive for a session?
Check in at the Gift Shop before your session. Staff will verify your booking and provide a photographer’s sash to wear during your shoot. The sash must be visible at all times and returned when you check out.
12. Can I bring props or equipment?
Certain hand-held props are allowed, but large setups, furniture, or decorations are not permitted. Excluded items include confetti cannons, confetti, balloons, flying lanterns, streamers, glitter, sequins, and similar items. All items must be carried in and out, no trash left behind, and the park must be left as you found it.
13. Are pets allowed in photo sessions?
Dogs are allowed. They must be leashed at all times, and owners are responsible for cleanup.
14. Can I fly a drone for photography?
No. Drone photography is not permitted at Lost River Cave.
15. What happens if I break a rule or fail to follow permit conditions?
Violating permit rules may result in revocation of your permit and loss of future photography privileges. In serious cases, legal action may be taken.
16. Who can I contact if I have questions?
For questions about your permit, booking, or park rules, please contact:
kate@lostrivercave.org
270-393-0077 ext 111
