Our Gardens are a cherished destination for both guests and photographers. To ensure an enjoyable experience for all guests, any special occasion or contracted photography/videography session must be scheduled in advance and requires a paid permit.
When a Paid Photography/Videography Session Is Required
A paid photography/videography session is required when the primary purpose of the visit is to conduct a posed, staged, or portrait photography session.
Factors that may indicate that a visit constitutes a photography/videography session include:
- Intent: Your visit is primarily to take posed or portrait photos/video using the Gardens as a backdrop.
- Photographer/Videographer: A photographer or videographer, whether paid or unpaid, has been specifically engaged or assigned to conduct a posed or staged photography session.
- Photos/Video: Multiple posed or staged photos/video are being taken in various locations.
- Equipment: You use lights, reflectors, tripods, video gear, or other accessories.
- Staging activities or Wardrobe Changes: Wardrobe changes, props, signs, backdrops, on-site hair or makeup services, and other staging activities are always prohibited, even during a permitted photography session. Please review the Photo/Video Session Guidelines below.
- Special-occasion attire: Bridal attire, prom attire, gowns, tuxedos, costumes, or other attire worn specifically for a posed or staged photography session.
Examples of special occasions requiring a paid photography/videography session include, but are not limited to: weddings, engagements, proposals, maternity, quinceañeras, proms, and formals.
Longwood staff reserve the right, based on the circumstances of the visit and the factors described above, to determine whether an activity constitutes a photography/videography session. Guests conducting a session without the required permit may be asked to discontinue the activity or leave the Gardens.
When a Permit Is Not Required
Guests are warmly welcome to take casual, informal photos/videos during their visit for personal enjoyment and to remember their experience at Longwood. No permit is required when:
- Photos/videos are spontaneous and taken during a regular visit.
- Guests use handheld cameras or phones without additional equipment.
- Images/videos are for personal, non-commercial use (such as sharing with family, friends, or on personal social media).
We encourage guests to capture and share the beauty of their visit—just please be mindful of other guests and remain on designated pathways to protect the Gardens.
General Photography/Videography Guidelines
- Handheld cameras and phones are welcome for personal, non-commercial use.
- Tripods, monopods, and easels may be used in outdoor gardens only, subject to attendance levels and staff discretion. These items are not permitted indoors.
- Drones are not permitted anywhere on the property.
- Costumes (including cosplay, masks, or seasonal characters such as Santa or the Easter Bunny) are not permitted at any time.
- To protect our horticultural collection, we do not allow outside plant material or flowers of any kind to be brought into the Gardens unless approved for use during a permitted photography session or when hosting Events at Longwood.
- Please be respectful of other guests, avoid blocking paths, and protect our plant displays and garden spaces.