Photography Policy
Personal Photography
Norfolk Botanical Garden is the most picturesque setting in Hampton Roads. We encourage visitors to take casual photographs or videos using phones or digital cameras for personal use. Personal photos and videos may not be used for commercial purposes.
Portrait and Commercial Photography
Advanced reservations and a photography permit are required for ALL portrait and commercial sessions. This includes engagement, wedding/bridal, business, graduation, prom, formal and informal family portraits, catalog, fashion, advertisement, and promotional photography.
Norfolk Botanical Garden does not provide a photographer. Specific areas or gardens cannot be reserved for photo sessions.
Reservation Information
Reservations can be made up to 30 days in advance and are available Monday through Thursday during regular business hours. For Friday through Sunday availability, please call for details.
To book a photography session, contact the Events Team at (757) 441-5830 ext. 320 or email events@nbgs.org.
Photography Session: $250
Included:
Two-hour session at Norfolk Botanical Garden and admission for up to six individuals.
Please Note:
Photographers are not provided by NBG. Sessions do not include access to private dressing rooms, but public restrooms are available for changing and preparation.
Did You Know?
Members at the Garden Family Membership level or higher receive one complimentary photography session per year.
(This benefit cannot be transferred to clients by photographers or studios.)
Bridal Suite & Photography Session: $500
Included:
Private bridal suite/dressing room access for up to four hours and admission for up to six individuals.
Please Note:
Complimentary member sessions do not apply to bridal suite photography sessions. Advanced reservations are required.
Getting married at Norfolk Botanical Garden?
Your photography session may be included in your wedding package. Contact our weddings team at weddings@nbgs.org to learn more!
Alexandria Photography
Commercial Videography, Photography & Styled Photoshoots:
Session Rates:
Two-hour session – $1,000 | Four-hour session – $1,500 | Six-hour session – $2,000
Private shooting location reservations are available for an additional fee. Advanced reservations are required.
Each session includes:
• Private dressing room
• NBG venue coordinator
• Golf cart transportation
Please Note: Complimentary member sessions do not apply to commercial videography, photography or styled photoshoots.
For commercial photography and film rates, contact Chief Marketing Officer Kelly Welsh at (757) 441-5830 ext. 346.
Cancellations
There is no penalty for cancellation. As a courtesy, please notify us if you have to cancel or rescheduled your appointment. In the case of inclement weather, we are happy to reschedule your session.
Transportation
Garden public trams make designated stops on a set schedule and all guests are welcome to ride. Schedules are located on the Garden map and can be picked up at the Visitor’s Center Front Desk. Garden staff is not available to accompany groups during photography sessions. Shuttle services and golf cart rentals are not available. Personal vehicles must remain in designated parking areas.
Payment and Check-in Procedures
Payment is due upon check in at the Guest Services Desk in the Baker Hall Visitor’s Center and can be made by cash, check or credit card. Complimentary photography sessions for members require a valid membership card. The Guest Services Desk will issue a one-time use photography permit that must be displayed during your session. Contact the Visitor Center at 757-441-5830 ext. 0 if you have any questions!
Thank you for your courtesy to Garden guests and our stunning collection of plants. Please review the Garden’s rules in advance.
Restrictions
Balloons and pets are not permitted. Elopements, weddings and vow renewals require a private event reservation. Absolutely NO wedding ceremonies may be performed without advance reservation. Parties not in compliance will be asked to leave immediately.
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 Norfolk Botanical Garden for your portrait session!
