The Port of Coupeville has started collecting on a recently enacted photography and videography permit.

The permit, which requires professional photographers and videographers to pay to shoot at the wharf, went into effect in August 2021. Port Executive Director Chris Michalopoulos told the port board of commissioners during a meeting March 9 that the port put the contract into play for the second time this week when the wharf played host to a vehicle photo shoot.

Under the permit, anyone taking photos or filming videos at the wharf for commercial purposes must pay $100 for one hour of shooting, $300 for four hours or $600 for eight hours.

The permit and fee apply only to photos or videos that will be resold for profit.

“It applies to all licensed video production companies, professional photographers, and any other licensed companies utilizing our historic assets for commercial reproduction,” Michalopoulos said.

Personal photos that will not be resold are exempt, so amateur photographers and tourists can continue to click away to their hearts’ delight at no cost.

The change was prompted by high numbers of photographers and videographers the wharf attracts. Michalopoulos said some groups that have filmed or taken photos at the wharf have been surprised that the port didn’t charge a fee. The Washington Filmworks Association eventually suggested the port enact a permit.

Michalopoulos said the fee is less about generating revenue for the port and “more about making sure these types of activities are covered by their insurance company and are liable for any issues.”

“It can take port staff time to manage these events, and that should be compensated,” he added.