Are we allowed to take pictures at the colony?

Yes, but not to take with you back to the ground. The plan for the open contact is still being discussed. The colonists may and should take an active role in discussing the plan for the open contact. This should be currently the main focus of the colony. Until the plan is finalized, there is still a prohibition for leaking physical proofs to the ground, it is almost Prime Directive, but in the time close to official contact, the restrictions are not as strict as before. The aliens allow for channeled messages to be delivered and distributed because the enlightened people get the message and the mainstream public is not alarmed. But photographs are not allowed. They are very strict about that.