Photography at Fernwood
Fernwood Botanical Garden is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to enrich people's lives by awakening and deepening their appreciation of nature. Our expansive grounds are popular locations for photography, videography, and social media sharing, and you are welcome to photograph them as outlined in this policy.
The purpose of Fernwood’s photography policy is to enhance the guest experience, yet offer limited access for portraiture and commercial photographers.
The quality of Fernwood’s guest experience and the safety of our visitors is of the utmost importance. To that end, photography must not disrupt Fernwood’s operations or limit the accessibility of grounds, exhibitions, or facilities.
PHOTOGRAPHY GUIDELINES
Visitors are encouraged to share or post images through social media, email, or personal web pages. Please make sure to tag Fernwood! Any photos shared publicly or directly by the photographer may be used for the Fernwood website and informational and promotional purposes. Photo credit will be given whenever possible.
Drone photography is not allowed.
Photographers cannot block off any area. All persons and equipment must stay on pathways, lawns, and trails.
No one is allowed to walk, stand or place tripods in planted areas or on bare soil. Planted areas include fields, plant beds, grass that is not mowed, and ground that is not wood chipped or paved. No plants shall be tied up or modified in any manner with pins, tape, twine, etc. Do not move or change the position of potted plants or remove any signs or labels from planted areas.
No nudity allowed.
All media professionals, portraiture, and commercial photographers must contact our Manager of Special Events to arrange photo and video shoots. Special permission and location fees may apply.
Personal Use Photography
During operating hours only. Appointment and agreement not required.
According to the photography and video policy, guests, not professional photographers, may only take photos and videos for personal use. General admission payment is required. Click here for current admission and membership fees. In this case, a signed Photography Agreement is not required. Photos must be taken in public areas during regular operating hours.
Portraiture Photos & Video
Appointment and agreement are required.
Portraits, family photos, engagements, weddings, prom, maternity.
A $150 fee, for two hours or less, will provide nonexclusive use of Fernwood for up to ten people. Anyone over the ten-person limit must pay admission. Depending on staff availability, the nature of the photoshoot, and the group size, a staff member may be assigned to oversee the photo shoot and guide you to approved locations; additional fees may apply.
Commercial Photos & Video
Appointment and agreement are required.
A $550 fee for a half day or less is required and does not guarantee exclusive use of Fernwood Botanical Garden. Additional fees for extended time frames, setup, cleanup, transportation, room rental, or security will be assessed.
Fernwood may assign a staff representative to oversee the production and guide you to approved locations. Additional fees will apply if this is necessary.
Senior Photos
Appointment and agreement are required.
Students must present a valid school ID. Be sure to submit a photo agreement form. In support of our local community, Senior Photos are the only exception to our photography fees. The student, the photographer, and any others accompanying them (up to 3 additional people) must pay our entrance fee. No other fees apply. Any groups over the five-person Senior Photo limit will be considered Portraiture Photography as outlined in the section above and subject to said fees.