Metrophoto apologizes over Toni Gonzaga photo taken at National Museum

MANILA, Philippines – The photographer who shot Toni Gonzaga and Paul Soriano’s prenup photos at the National Museum apologized after the TV host-actress was seen in a photograph appearing to touch a painting at the museum. (See some of Toni Gonzaga and Paul Soriano’s prenup photos)

On their Facebook page, Oly Ruiz of Metrophoto said they are aware that touching artwork or taking photos without permission is prohibited. Oly cleared up the issue with a longer explanation posted below:

“Metrophoto would like to extend our apology to those involved with regard to a photograph of Ms Toni Gonzaga, as part of her pre-wedding shoot held in the National Museum. The said photograph is where she is seen to be touching a painting with her elbow.

“As we have mentioned in an article in weddingsatwork, all the paintings used in the shoot were replicas. The frames were made of styrofoam and the canvases were [made of] ordinary paper. Initially there was no plan to touch the painting at all, but as we are taking a shot with Toni in front of it, the said painting gradually started to fall on her (the frames were hung on the wall using only sticky-tacs) but she was able to hold on to it. We then asked to instead use her elbow to keep it from falling while we took a shot of it.

“As professionals we always ensure that we provide safety not only for our subjects but also [with] respect to our shoot locations. It was never our intention to disrespect other people’s work and encourage any act that disregards a work of art, whether real or not. We have removed the photograph from our website and will be more cognizant in the future. Again, we sincerely apologize to everyone that we may have offended and we apologize also to The National Museum, who have been negatively affected when all they did was accommodate us the best way they could.

“Nevertheless we would like to thank everyone for their support and appreciate and value everyone’s comments and opinions,” he said.

According to the guidelines of the National Museum, “Touching artworks and taking photos of exhibit items for commercial purposes inside galleries are strictly prohibited unless otherwise authorized through a special permit from the Director’s Office/ Museum Education Division.

“Picture taking is allowed for souvenir purposes only. DSLR cameras need special permit. The use of flash photography is strictly prohibited.”

Aside from the Metrophoto shoot, the couple also had a photoshoot with photographer Pat Dy. The two are set to tie the knot after 8 years of relationship. (IN PHOTOS: Toni Gonzaga’s surprise bridal shower) – Rappler.com