08/09/2026
This is a friendly reminder as I am seeing it more and more where people are excited and take animals out of their respective areas to get the fun shots with banners or with the ferris wheel behind them.
As an official fair photographer there is so much work that goes on behind the scenes that many of you do not see nor hear about. Such as making sure that approvals are gained, liability is covered by all parties, coordination of safety for both exhibitors and visitors, and much more.
Even when a KTP client asks to have me shoot at their fair, we make sure to have the appropriate approval from fair staff and the official photographer is aware (as KTP does not want to interfere with their job). Just walking out of the barn or allowed animal areas could cost you and the fair, as the what ifs can happen at anytime.
It is always better to be safe than sorry.
Fair photos are always a big hit ... and as the "trend" grows, I want to offer a few words of wisdom as someone who's worked with quite a few.
Things to keep in mind:
🎡 Always get permission from the fair board/manager(s) ... animal department supervisors do not have jurisdiction over midway activities. There's so much planning these organizers have to go through to make the fair safe and successful for all visitors. Getting the fair organizers on your side allows them to inform vendors and midway personnel of the heads up.
🎡 Animals around food spaces, extension cords and other large equipment can pose possible risk and ensue fines. This is the reality we live in now, even if you don't agree with it. ;)
🎡 Professional photographers carry liability insurance. I get it, we might not always be in your budget or more personally, have the availability to capture those moments during one of the busiest times of the year. However, I guarantee it's a better alternative to covering costs yourself if something happens.
🎡 There are certain rules that need to be followed with live animals on the midway. Timing for general public may need to be avoided, extra helpers for cleanup of manure, animals standing on rides and midway games are often not ideal.
🎡 Other events and personnel may be scheduled during fair week (politicians, security, etc). Not coordinating with fair staff can disrupt flow of such events.
This post is not to discourage creativity and enthusiasm however, I fear if not brought to attention we all may lose the opportunity to have the ability to have a bit of fun with photos.
As always, happy picturing!