Can I take photographs and film in the National Archives?
Yes! Non-flash photography, filming, and videotaping for personal use is encouraged in all public areas of the National Archives unless otherwise posted. Flash, other supplemental lighting, selfie sticks, monopods, or similar equipment are not permitted. We encourage you to share your photographs online and tag us @USNatArchives!
Those wishing to film for news purposes must contact NARA’s Public Affairs Office in a timely fashion and provide information allowing us to determine if, how, and when the filming may take place at public.affairs@nara.gov, by phone at 202.357.5300, or by mail at National Archives and Records Administration; 700 Pennsylvania Avenue NW; Public Affairs Office; Washington, DC 20408-0001. Commercial purpose filming is not permitted under these regulations. For more information please see the Rules for Filming, Photographing, or Videotaping on NARA Property or in NARA Facilities.
We also have several ways you can take home photos of our documents on display:
- Download free scans of the: Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights
- Find facsimiles onsite at the National Archives Store or online.
- Download closeup photos of documents and other details from the Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom:
