The Eiffel Tower is undoubtedly one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Located in Paris, France, it attracts millions of visitors each year who want to capture its beauty through photographs.
However, there has been some confusion and debate regarding the legality of taking pictures of the Eiffel Tower, especially at night. Let’s delve into this topic and shed some light on whether it is actually illegal to take a picture of the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
The Legal Background
Before we discuss the specific regulations regarding photography of the Eiffel Tower, it’s essential to understand the legal framework that governs such matters. In France, as in many other countries, copyright laws protect artistic works, including architectural structures like the Eiffel Tower.
Architectural works are generally protected by copyright for a certain period after their construction. In most countries, this protection lasts for the lifetime of the architect plus an additional number of years after their death.
Daytime Photography
During daylight hours, taking pictures of the Eiffel Tower is generally permitted without any legal restrictions. The structure itself is considered to be part of the public domain and can be freely photographed for personal use or non-commercial purposes. So feel free to snap away during your visit!
Nighttime Photography and Illumination
However, things become slightly more complicated when it comes to nighttime photography of the Eiffel Tower. Since 1985, a nightly illumination display has been installed on the tower. This mesmerizing light show attracts both locals and tourists alike.
The lighting design applied to the Eiffel Tower is considered an artistic work in its own right and is therefore subject to copyright protection. This means that any photographs or videos taken at night that include these illuminations are technically considered a reproduction of copyrighted material.
The Société d’Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel (SETE), the company that manages the Eiffel Tower, holds the rights to the lighting display. They have the authority to grant or deny permission for commercial use of images or videos featuring the illuminated tower.
Personal Use vs. Commercial Use
For personal use, such as sharing photos on social media or printing them for personal albums, you are generally not required to seek permission from SETE. This falls under the category of non-commercial use and is considered acceptable.
However, if you intend to use these photographs for commercial purposes, such as selling them as prints or using them in advertising campaigns, it is advisable to seek permission from SETE and potentially obtain a license. This ensures that you comply with copyright laws and respect the rights of those who hold the intellectual property rights associated with the Eiffel Tower’s nighttime illumination.
In Summary
In conclusion, it is not illegal to take pictures of the Eiffel Tower during daylight hours or at night. However, if you plan to use these photographs commercially and they include images of the tower’s nighttime illumination, it is advisable to seek permission from SETE and potentially obtain a license to ensure compliance with copyright laws.
Remember to always be respectful when taking photographs of copyrighted works and consider seeking legal advice if you have any doubts about your specific situation.