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 permit and scheduled session are required if any of the following apply:
- Intent: Your visit is primarily to take posed or portrait photos/video using the Gardens as a backdrop.
- Photographer/Videographer: A designated person—professional or otherwise—is taking photos/video of individuals in your group.
- 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.
- Props or Makeup: Items are used to stage or enhance photography/videography.
- Outfit Changes: Clothing changes of any kind beyond layering a sweater or jacket.
- Special Attire: Formal or coordinated outfits such as gowns, tuxedos, ceremonial or bridal attire, or themed/costume clothing.
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 to determine when a visit constitutes a photography/videography session and may deny entry or ask guests to leave if a permit was not obtained in advance.
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.
Scheduling and Fees (for Permitted Photo Sessions)
- Sessions must be scheduled at least four (4) weeks in advance using our photo session request form.
- Same-day permits are not available.
- Sessions are offered at 10:30 am, 12:30 pm, and 2:30 pm (only 10:30 am during A Longwood Christmas).
- Each session lasts 90 minutes and may be extended by 30 minutes for an additional $50 (maximum session length: 2 hours).
Permit Fees
- 1-10 guests: $250
- 11-20 guests: $500
- 21-30 guests: $750
- Add $50 during A Longwood Christmas
- The permit includes admission for the photographer only. All other guests must have valid Gardens Admission or Membership. Please note: Longwood Memberships are exclusively for non-commercial use, therefore photographers with Memberships may not use their Membership to gain Gardens admission for clients as part of a photo session.
Photo/Video Session Guidelines
(For guests with scheduled and permitted photo sessions)
- Photography is permitted in outdoor gardens only.
- All sessions are accompanied by a Longwood staff member.
- Proof of insurance is required for professional photographers.
- Props, signs, drones, and wardrobe changes are not permitted.
- Commercial photography/videography promoting products or services is not permitted.
- Longwood Memberships are for non-commercial use only and may not be used for client photo sessions.
- Changes to bookings must be made at least 14 days prior to your session.
- Longwood does not provide storage and is not responsible for personal belongings or equipment.
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.
- Please be respectful of other guests, avoid blocking paths, and protect our plant displays and garden spaces.