On a related note, it is illegal to take a picture of the Eiffel Tower at night but NOT during the day[0].
It's the lighting system and its 'likeness' that cannot be reproduced. A brief search and I don't think anyone has been prosecuted[1]. There are plenty of pictures everywhere that probably don't have proper licensing. Perhaps those who want to use it commercially can get permission relatively easily?
You are of course allowed to take a picture of the Eiffel tower at any time, but publishing a picture of the lighting at night is limited by the copyright on the light installation.
It's the lighting system and its 'likeness' that cannot be reproduced. A brief search and I don't think anyone has been prosecuted[1]. There are plenty of pictures everywhere that probably don't have proper licensing. Perhaps those who want to use it commercially can get permission relatively easily?
[0] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M16CGK1T9MM [1] https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/photographs-of-eiffel-towe...