Help us protect the art and make the museum a pleasant experience for all visitors by following these simple rules.
To ensure a safe and healthy visit for everyone, we’ve updated our policies and online resources:
To help promote a culture of civility, diversity, inclusion, and equality, we ask that visitors show courtesy to all. Harassing, discriminatory, or threatening behavior is strictly prohibited.
Digital versions of our gallery map, audio guides, and collection information can be accessed here on our website.
Photos & Video for Personal Use
Visitors may capture photos and video in the museum’s galleries and outdoor spaces. However, please note the following restrictions and exceptions:
- Flash, auxiliary lighting, tripods, props, and selfie sticks are prohibited in the galleries.
- Only single-unit, hand-held cameras are permitted in the galleries.
- Photography is sometimes restricted in special exhibitions or for specific loans as indicated on signage in the galleries.
- The use of drones is prohibited on VMFA grounds.
- Be respectful of other visitors and mindful of art-safety as you take photos and video.
- All photos must be for personal or educational non-commercial use only.
Professional, Commercial, or Press Photography
Professional photo shoots and portraits for individuals or small groups may take place only in the Sculpture Garden and only during public hours. Large groups, bridal photo shoots, and any private gallery photo sessions are limited to those who have Special Events booked at VMFA. To book a Special Event, please email specialeventsinquiries@vmfa.museum.
For commercial, film, and television photography and video requests, please email lillian.dunn@vmfa.museum with as much advance notice as possible.
For press photography and video requests, please email amy.peck@vmfa.museum.
Look– but please don’t touch.
Please maintain a safe distance between you and the art. Even the lightest touch contains chemicals that can damage a work of art. With care and safekeeping, these works will be here for many generations to enjoy.
Travel light.
Free Coat Check is provided at the main entrance for your convenience. All umbrellas, backpacks, and bags larger than 8x13x16 inches must be checked. Wheelchairs, strollers, and gallery stools are available at no charge.
Eat smart.
Food, beverages, candy, and gum are not allowed in the galleries. Visit Best Café or Amuse restaurant, or have a picnic in our Sculpture Garden! Please note, no outside food is allowed in our restaurants. Drinking fountains are available near every restroom.
Express yourself.
Feel free to write or sketch with pencil only on a pad or drawing board no larger than 18×24 in. Please be mindful of visitor traffic. Sketching may not be permitted in some special exhibitions. Groups or those wishing to sketch using other materials should contact Visitor Services at 804.340.1405.
Enjoy the museum with your family.
Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Breastfeeding is welcome anywhere in the museum. Strollers are allowed and can be borrowed free of charge from Coat Check. Baby carriers may be worn on the front only. There are three family restrooms located throughout the museum.
Learn and share.
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the museum on the VMFA Guest network. Audio tours and additional information can be found on our website. Share your experiences and remember to tag us! #vmfa
Say cheese!
Photographers are on duty at many museum programs and events to capture images for the museum’s archives and for publicity about museum programs. If you prefer not to have your picture taken during such an event, please notify the photographer.