photography at the gardens
Amateur photography is welcome anytime at Matthaei Botanical Gardens. The use of tri-pods, and other equipment beyond your hand-held camera, however, is not allowed in the Conservatory on our high trafficked days - Wednesdays, Saturdays & Sundays. We also reserve the right to limit use of tri-pods and other equipment during tours, classes or other events.
Photography classes, clubs or groups are asked to call ahead so that we can put you on the schedule and let you know of any events that may limit your activities.
Professional photographers using the outdoor Gardens and indoor Conservatory as a studio for photo shoots with clients will be charged according to the following schedule:
- Senior Photos and individual portraits: $35
- Engagement and couples portraits: $50
- Family group portraits (with up to 16 people): $100
- Wedding Party group portraits: not allowed during public hours; may be scheduled after hours at $100 per 30 minutes, depending on availability - should be scheduled in advance.
We want your clients to have positive memories of their photos at the Gardens - but the Gardens are maintained for University and general public use. We reserve the right to limit use of the facilities by professionals based on Garden events and previous rental arrangements. We ask that professional photographers not advertise our Gardens as a photo shoot location without permission from us. Professional photographers using our facilities for business purposes are asked to pay the fees listed above if they apply - in other cases, please make a donation to Matthaei/Nichols or help support us by becoming a member.
