Purchasing Images

Most images from the Library's Photographic Collection can be purchased in high resolution digital format for reference, research, and educational use. To obtain an image, email speccol@amnh.org. Please include the AMNH image number in your request. If you do not have an image number, please include a detailed description of the image and a copy of the image, if available. 

Be aware that we cannot accommodate rush orders or provide extensive photographic research services.  Please refer to our Researching Special Collections page for procedures on scheduling an appointment to conduct your own research in the Library’s photographic collection.

There are two fees associated with imaging services:

• Fee 1: fee to obtain an image
• Fee 2: fee to license the image

Licensing Images

Images must be licensed for use in publications, films, broadcasts, websites, or other forms of reproduction.  Please note this second fee applies only if you intend to use the image for publication, display, or other transmittal.  To license any image, an Application for Permission to Reproduce Images (PDF) must be completed and submitted to Special Collections via e-mail (speccol@amnh.org) or fax (212-769-5009). Please note that we do not sign licensing agreements from other institutions.

Images may not be published, displayed, or transmitted in any way without permission from the Special Collections Department. Certain materials may be protected by copyright, trademark, or related interests not owned by the AMNH. Responsibility for obtaining any and all permissions as may be necessary rest with the user. Publication permission is granted for one-time use for the duration of the specified project. Each additional use (new project, new edition, etc.) requires submission of a new Application for Permission to Reproduce Images (PDF).

Payment Information

You will receive an invoice by email for the purchase and/or licensing of images.  We accept payment by check, money order, or credit card (Visa, Mastercard, and American Express).  Images and/or permission will be provided upon payment.