Fernwood Botanical Garden is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching people's lives by awakening and deepening their appreciation of nature. Our expansive grounds are popular locations for photography, videography, and social media sharing. You are welcome to photograph them, as outlined in this policy.
The purpose of Fernwood’s photography and videography policy is to enhance the guest experience while providing limited access to professional photographers.
The quality of Fernwood’s guest experience and the safety of our visitors are of the utmost importance. To that end, photography must not disrupt Fernwood’s operations or limit access to grounds, exhibitions, or facilities.
PHOTOGRAPHY GUIDELINES
Visitors are encouraged to share or post images on social media, via email, or on 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 and videography are 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, unmowed grass, 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.
Photographers and clients must stay on trails and out of streams, ponds, and other bodies of water.
No nudity allowed.
All commercial photographers must contact our Manager of Special Events to arrange photo and video shoots. Special permission and location fees may apply.
Annual photography members must present their Fernwood membership card each time they visit. Learn more about the Photography Annual Membership here.
Photography & Videography at Fernwood
Personal Use Photography
During operating hours only. Appointment and signed agreement not required.
According to the photography and videography policy, guests, not professional photographers, are permitted to take photos and videos for personal use only.
General admission payment is required. Click here for current admission and membership fees. In this case, a signed Photography/Videography Agreement is not required. Photos must be taken in public areas during regular operating hours.
Portrait Photos & Video
A signed Photography/Videography Agreement is required.
Portraits, family photos, engagements, weddings, maternity, prom, and senior photos.
Portraiture photos and videos may be taken at Fernwood with the purchase of a Photography Day Pass or a Photography Annual Membership. The Photography Day Pass or Membership allows entry for a professional photographer and up to four guests. Additional guests will be required to pay standard General Admission prices.
The Photography/Videography Agreement is available at the front desk (or can be downloaded here) and must be completed and signed upon arrival.
Still Life Photos & Video
A signed Photography/Videography Agreement is required.
Landscape, travel, macro, and wildlife.
Still Life photos and videos may be taken at Fernwood with the purchase of a Photography Day Pass or a Photography Annual Membership. The Photography Day Pass or Membership allows entry for a professional photographer and up to four guests. Additional guests will be required to pay standard General Admission prices.
The Photography/Videography Agreement is available at the front desk (or can be downloaded here) and must be completed and signed upon arrival.
Commercial Photos & Video
Appointment and Commercial Photography/Videography 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.
Click here to fill out the commercial photographer interest form.
