Yes — many wedding ceremonies in St. Mary’s Basilica are documented today by professional photographers, but specific rules apply. The Basilica functions both as a place of worship and as a historic monument, so the parish priest or church administration decides to what extent and under what conditions photography during the ceremony is allowed. In practice this means you must agree on the details in advance and respect liturgical and conservation rules.
It’s important to distinguish two situations: photographing the interior (tourist or souvenir photos taken outside the liturgy) and photographing the wedding ceremony itself. The latter requires permission from the church authorities and often additional restrictions on the photographer’s movement, use of flash, or access to areas reserved for the liturgy. As one of Kraków’s most famous churches, the Basilica typically has stricter rules than smaller parishes, so plan ahead.
Start by talking with the parish priest or the parish office responsible for weddings — ideally when you are setting the date and time. Explain whether the photographer is authorized to photograph the liturgy (some parishes require professional photographers to complete a liturgy course) and whether a fee is required for documenting the ceremony.
Agree the details: at which moments the photographer may move around the church, whether it’s permitted to go onto the choir or balcony, whether additional lighting is allowed, and whether there are parts of the Mass where photography is forbidden (for example the homily or the Eucharist). Ask for written or e-mail confirmation of these arrangements — this will make communication with the photographer easier and prevent misunderstandings on the wedding day.
It’s also good practice to inform the organist and singers (if any) to coordinate moments when silence is needed or when movement should be limited, and to ask guests to refrain from casual photography during sensitive parts of the ceremony.
The photographer should work discreetly: minimal movement, no flash during the most important parts of the liturgy, and limited repositioning during readings, prayers or the homily. The liturgy has priority — photography should document it, not disturb it.
Avoid occupying spaces reserved for the celebrants and liturgical ministers. If the photographer has a portfolio of church work, ask to see examples — this reassures you they can work respectfully in sacred and historic interiors.
If the couple plans additional shots (for example family photos at the altar), arrange them before or after the liturgy so they don’t interfere with the Mass.
In many dioceses and parishes there is a rule that a photographer working during the liturgy should attend a liturgy course or at least acquaint themselves with guidelines for photographing in a church. Such a course teaches when not to take photos, how to move without disturbing the liturgy, and how to behave respectfully in sacred spaces.
In practice not every priest demands a formal certificate — but the photographer’s experience and sensitivity are crucial. If the photographer has a certificate or positive references from other parishes, let the parish priest know.
Practices vary: some parishes only ask for a donation to the church, others have fixed fees for photographing the ceremony. In prominent and historic churches such as St. Mary’s Basilica, the administration may request a symbolic fee or a donation for conservation efforts. Amounts differ widely depending on the parish and the nature of the event — from small donations to fixed charges for documentation.
To avoid surprises, ask the parish about any fees before signing a contract with your photographer. Also clarify whether the fee covers photography only or also video, and whether it includes permission to publish photos for commercial use.
Look for someone experienced in photographing ceremonies in historic interiors and who can show a portfolio from similar places. References from couples who married in comparable churches and the ability to work without additional lighting are valuable.
Have the contract clearly state where photos may be taken in the church, use of flash, number of photographers, and hours of work. For St. Mary’s Basilica it’s best if the photographer visits the church in advance, measures light, and agrees with you on the best shooting positions.
Discuss the style of photos you want during the Mass — a reportage, discreet documentary style usually suits the sacred atmosphere and does not distract participants.
Ask relatives and friends to limit phone photography during key moments of the ceremony — especially during the vows and communion. Too many phones and flashes near the couple ruin frames and distract attention.
Provide the photographer with a clear working position (for example the choir, a side aisle or the back of the church) that follows parish rules. This will help achieve beautiful photos with minimal movement.
Plan group photos before or after Mass so you don’t take up altar space during the liturgy. If you want photos at the altar, arrange this with the priest in advance.
Failing to agree details with the church in advance — this is an easy route to misunderstandings on the wedding day. Always speak with the parish priest and confirm the rules in writing.
Hiring a photographer without church experience — a new photographer may not know liturgical rules and might unintentionally disrupt the Mass. Request a portfolio and references.
Using flash during sensitive moments — flash can distract the celebrant and guests and spoil the natural atmosphere. It’s better to rely on fast lenses and the photographer’s skill.
St. Mary’s Basilica stands in the heart of the Main Market Square — this makes logistics easier for guests, but remember parking and pedestrian flow may be limited. Provide guests with information about nearby transport options and accommodation.
If you have guests from abroad, give them a short guide to church etiquette: modest dress, avoiding noisy photography, and being punctual. After the ceremony the Main Market Square has many great spots for a quick coffee or a small reception — historic restaurants and cafés such as Wierzynek, Café Camelot, or Charlotte are popular and can usually accommodate larger groups.
Can I ask the parish priest for an official permission to photograph? - Yes, it’s best to arrange this in advance; request written confirmation of the agreed rules.
Can guests take pictures with their phones? - There’s usually no formal ban, but guests are asked to limit their photography during key moments out of respect for the liturgy.
Can photos be published on social media? - This depends on parish policy and the celebrant’s preferences; if you plan wide or commercial publication, agree this beforehand with the parish and the photographer.
St. Mary’s Basilica is not only famous for its beautiful interior and the Veit Stoss altarpiece — it’s also home to a lively musical tradition, and the hourly trumpet call (the Hejnał) from the tower is known around the world. That liturgical and artistic context gives photographs made here a special character.
In historic churches remember the conservation aspect: strong directed light or frequent movement of large groups near delicate furnishings can be restricted to protect the monument. For this reason consult your photography plan with the church administration.
When planning a wedding at St. Mary’s Basilica, the key elements are early arrangements with the parish, choosing a photographer experienced in church settings, and a clear agreement about working rules in the church. Discretion, respect for the liturgy and protection of the historic interior will let you enjoy beautiful documentation without unpleasant surprises.
If you need practical help planning your wedding day in Kraków — from liaising with the church, recommending trusted photographers, to booking restaurants and accommodation — contact private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz. Małgorzata knows Kraków inside out and will help organize logistics, advise the best solutions and make sure your day is calm and beautiful.
If you found this article helpful — share it with friends or post it on social media. If you’re planning a wedding or a visit to Kraków and would like help from a professional guide, remember that Małgorzata Kasprowicz is ready to assist — contact details are available on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. Good luck with your preparations and enjoy beautiful moments in the heart of Kraków!
