Photography Policy

We are delighted that you are considering Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden (DSBG) as the location for your photos.

The guidelines outlined below are intended for all guests, but a reservation is necessary for those who wish to use DSBG as a backdrop for posed or directed photography. We ask all photographers to please help us to maintain the integrity of the Garden by honoring these policies. They are intended to ensure the Garden can fulfill its mission – Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden inspires a love of nature and its beauty through unforgettable outdoor experiences, transforming people’s relationship with plants and the natural world.

DSBG defines photography in three different ways:

Guest Photography.  Photographs are a wonderful way to remember your visit. For your own enjoyment, visitors and members are welcome to take snapshot photographs of plants, individuals and subjects that capture the events of your visit. DSBG defines a snapshot as an informal photograph that is shot spontaneously and quickly without artistic intent. You may share your photos of the Garden on social media outlets, including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Included in your entrance fee.

Portrait Photography. DSBG defines portrait photography as: wedding, engagement, quinceanera, family, maternity, portfolio, prom, graduation, and any other posed portraiture of individuals by professional or amateur photographers, whether PAID or UNPAID. DSBG reserves the right to further define Portrait Photography on a case-by-case basis. All photoshoots must be scheduled in advance with the Private Events Department. You may email them at privateevents@dsbg.org.

Commercial Photography. DSBG defines commercial photography as fashion shoots, advertisements, or promotions. The sale of photos and videos taken at the Garden without express written consent of the Garden is strictly prohibited. Please contact the Private Events Department for further information. You may email them at privateevents@dsbg.org.

Please note:

• The use of professional-grade camera equipment, including light stands, rolling equipment bags, bounce cards, stools, apple boxes, props, or other similar items is strictly prohibited without booking an official photo session.
• Drones are prohibited without prior approval from the Private Events Department, contact them at privateevents@dsbg.org.
• Restrooms cannot be used as dressing rooms.
• All Garden guests grant their permission to Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden to utilize their image, likeness and/or voice in photos and videos for any purpose whatsoever in perpetuity throughout the universe.

To book a photography session, please email our Private Events Department at privateevents@dsbg.org.

Portrait Photography Options:

Portrait Photo Sessions Package One

• Access to the Garden for up to two hours during business hours
• Dressing room access
• Garden admission and parking for up to 4 guests including your photographer.

The location fee is $125.

Portrait Photo Sessions Package Two

• Access to the Garden for up to two hours during business hours
• Dressing room access
• Garden admission and parking for up to 8 guests including your photographer.

The location fee is $250.

Out of Hours Photo Sessions (4:00 pm – 8:00 pm Only, Must Be Booked in Advance): 

Evening Portrait Photo Sessions Package Three

• Access to the Garden for up to two hours outside of business hours (4:00 pm – 8:00 pm only)
• Dressing room access
• Garden admission and parking for up to 4 guests including your photographer.

The location fee is $275.

Evening Portrait Photo Sessions Package Four

• Access to the Garden for up to two hours outside of business hours (4:00 pm – 8:00 pm only)
• Dressing room access
• Garden admission and parking for up to 8 guests including your photographer.

The location fee is $450.