Photography in the Garden

Private and Commercial Photography

Portrait photography is defined as, but not limited to: senior, engagement, head shots, family, graduation, etc. Also including photos taken to be sold or exhibited as art. NO WEDDING PARTIES are to be photographed at the Garden at Elm Bank unless you have a wedding booked here. All who wish to use the Garden at Elm Bank as a backdrop/setting for portrait photography, even if the photographer is NOT a professional, must be pre-arranged with the Guest Experience department.

All photography sessions require an advanced booking with our team. Please see below for guidelines and restrictions.

BOOKING & PRICING

A $75 session fee is required for each session booked. It includes up to 4 people and is for 90 minutes. Additional guests (if a large family or group) are $14 per person. Photographers or their clients must make a reservation before each session. Sessions are only available during the operating hours of the Garden at Elm Bank and cannot occur when private events are taking place on the property.

Those looking to book for a branding launch, clothing brand, or any other session requiring large amounts of equipment and site use fall into our Marketing and Stylized sessions. Please use the form to reach out to us as we're happy to work with you on scheduling.

Last booking time Monday - Thursday is 4pm
Last Booking time Friday - Sunday is 2pm

Sessions are welcome to purchase additional time - $25 for an additional 30 minutes.

PAYMENT AND CHECK-IN PROCEDURES

Payment must be made two days prior to your session via your invoice. Please bring a copy of your invoice with you when paying onsite.

CANCELLATIONS

There is no penalty for a cancellation or rescheduling before the date. In the case of inclement weather, we are happy to reschedule your session.

GARDEN ETIQUETTE

Thank you for your courtesy to Garden guests and our plantings. Please review all Garden Rules & Etiquette in advance.
Photographers, please take note
- Please help us in our work to keep the Garden at Elm Bank beautiful by staying on paths.
- Refrain from climbing trees, stepping in gardens, or wading in pools.
- Please be respectful of private events by not interrupting or taking photos while the garden space is in use.

RESTRICTIONS

Parties not in compliance will be asked to leave immediately.
- Elopements, weddings, and vow renewals require a private event reservation. Please reach out to our events team for more information.
- Balloons, pets, and props are not permitted.
- Tenting, lighting tools, and large screens are not allowed on site unless permitted.
- Sound instruments and music are not allowed in the Garden. Please keep the area peaceful for others to enjoy.
- Drones or any other form of UAV are not allowed on MHS’s property.

All fees from photo sessions directly support the mission of the Garden. Photographers not abiding by any portion of this policy will be asked to leave the Garden. Thank you for choosing the Garden at Elm Bank for your portrait session!

SINCE
1829.

Massachusetts Horticultural Society is dedicated to encouraging the science and practice of horticulture and to developing the public’s enjoyment, appreciation, and understanding of plants and the environment.

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