Mill Race Village's New Regulations for Photographers

For years, professional photographers have graced the grounds of Mill Race Historical Village to capture important events such as weddings, engagement sessions or even Senior Class pictures. With a river that runs near the village and brightly colored buildings; this picturesque back drop of Mill Race Historical Village has been a photographer’s haven throughout the years.  

Effective May 1st, 2011, photographers and videographers were greeted with signage letting them know that they were no longer free to just take photos in the Village without a permit. This new policy requires photographers and videographers who want to take photos to sign a contract, provide a copy of insurance and pay a fee of $500.00. In return, photographers and videographers will be issued a MRV Photographers badge and will be given an electronic calendar with all private events going on at the Village. This is exclusive information that will not be given out to the public. Preferred photographers and videographers will no longer have to worry about showing up with clients when other private events are going on. Preferred vendors will also be listed on Mill Race Village’s vendor list and given to couples getting married at Mill Race.           

One could argue that Mill Race Historical Village is a public entity and how can the Village charge photographers and videographers a fee to be in a public place? Well, Mill Race is managed by the Northville Historical Society and the Historical Society has determined that damage has been done to the buildings over the course of the years. This is one way for the Northville Historical Society to control who is on their property.           

If a person is at Mill Race Historical Village with their family or on a school outing, they can still take pictures while at the Village. This new policy only affects professional photographers and videographers.