KINGWOOD, Texas – If you're planning on paying for professional photographs in Kingwood, you might want to think twice about arranging a photo shoot in a park.
The Kingwood Service Association is reminding all park-goers that professional photographers are banned from doing business in their parks.
According to a spokeswoman, the rules have always been in place. However, a recent sign posted at East End park is grabbing a lot of attention.
"Wouldn't you think everyone should have a right to come out here and shoot pictures and enjoy this park," said photographer Amy Thomas of Oh Snap by Amy.
Some residents apparently complained to the Kingwood Service Association after several photographers had been using large props for holiday photos. The residents complained that the props were blocking the trail.
Kingwood Service Association president Dee Price released the following statement to KHOU 11 News:
"The Kingwood Service Association (KSA) has communicated to its residents who use its parks that people cannot conduct a for profit business in the parks. This includes photographers who want to bring clients to the parks to take their pictures. The Kingwood parks are privately owned by KSA and is maintained and managed for the recreational use of all its residents. This does not mean that residents cannot take pictures of their family in the parks or of the natural surroundings. Taking pictures of family and nature is part of the enjoyment of using the parks."
Several photographers attended an association meeting on Thursday night in a push to revise the rules. Their efforts were unsuccessful.
"I don't think there's anything wrong. It's not harming anything," said Kingwood resident Emily Willenborg.
For now, photographers for hire are considered trespassers at KSA parks and could be cited if they're caught.
