Last revised: March 9, 2026
Pictures are a wonderful way to remember your visit to Kingwood Center Gardens. While all guests are welcome to take photos, some sessions may require a photography permit or reservation depending on group size and activity. To help preserve the beauty and integrity of our gardens, we ask all photographers to follow these guidelines, ensuring we can fulfill our mission of creating transformative experiences within the exquisite garden estate.
Please be aware that some garden area may be closed for rentals or events. All photography sessions must occur during regular open hours and must be completed at least 30 minutes prior to closing. This photography policy applies to both camera and cell phone photography. Kingwood reserves the right to determine the session category and to deny any photography inquiry or session.
Any amateur or professional posed photography of groups of less than 15 individuals, such as: Engagement, Graduation, Quinceañera, Family, Maternity, Portfolio, or other Special Occasions, requires a photography permit. Photography permits are valid for a maximum of two hours and get you non-exclusive access to the Garden’s outdoor areas. Photography permits can be purchased online or over the phone for up to 30 minutes in advance. Please note that some photography sessions require an advance reservation.
These photography sessions must be scheduled and paid in full at least two weeks in advance to guarantee availability. Sessions include:
- Groups of over 16 guests
- Wedding photography not associated with an on-site rental
- Any photography involving:
- Outfit changes
- Props, extensive equipment, or set pieces
- Kingwood Hall
Kingwood reserves the right to decline any photography inquiry or session.
Photography Fees:
| Group Size: | Member Rate: | Non-Member Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Photography Permit (1-7 people) | $50 | $70 |
| Photography Permit (8-15 people) | $125 | $150 |
| Advance Reservation (8-15 people) | $225 | $250 |
| Advance Reservation (16+ people) | $425 | $450 |
Add-on Services:
These packages are only available for reserved sessions and must be scheduled in advance:
- Kingwood Hall: $50 per hour
- A staff member will be present throughout the session. All Kingwood Hall guidelines apply.
- Changing Spaces: $125 per hour for small groups
- Location will be determined by room availability. A waiver must be signed, and public restrooms may not be used for changing. Rates for larger groups can be discussed with the events department
- Golf Cart Transportation: $125 per golf cart per hour
- A staff member will transport guests and photographers across the grounds. Golf carts can accommodate 7 guests or 5 guests with 1 wheelchair user (ADA-compliant golf cart).
Addendums:
- Walk-Up Group Photography Sessions (16 or more guests): $100 in addition to standard rates. Note: Kingwood may deny entry to any group without a prior reservation.
- Excessive Litter: $250 may be charged to the credit card on file with documentation provided.
- Wedding photography in any capacity requires additional approval from one of the following: Events Assistant, Venue Operations Lead, Safety and Security Supervisor, Guest Services Supervisor, Guest Services Director, or Manager on Duty.
- School Dances: Photographs for school dances such as Homecoming and Prom do not need a photography permit if the tickets are purchased online in advance. Please see the website (kingwoodcenter.org/schooldance/) for more information.
1. Guest Photography
Guests and members are encouraged to take snapshots of plants, people, animals, and scenes for personal enjoyment. Snapshot photography refers to spontaneous, quick shots without a specific artistic purpose. Guests must adhere to the photography policy and garden guidelines while taking these photos. Feel free to share your images on social media using #KingwoodCenterGardens or @KingwoodCenterGardens.
2. Portrait or Posed Photography
This includes wedding, engagement, Quinceañera, family, maternity, portfolio, and other posed portraits (see below for senior pictures, school dances, etc. photography) by professional or amateur photographers, whether compensated or not. Please note, Kingwood may establish additional criteria for portrait photography when necessary.
3. Commercial Photography
Commercial photography includes fashion shoots, advertisements, and promotions. For more details and to schedule a session, please contact the events department.
General Photography Policy and Garden Guidelines:
- All guests and photographers must check in at the Admissions Desk to receive their on-site badge.
- All clients must arrive camera-ready, as there are no on-site dressing spaces. Public restrooms may not be used as changing spaces.
- All models and crew members must be fully and appropriately clothed.
- Drones, large props, set pieces (including furniture), lighting equipment, balloons, smoke bombs, sparklers, and confetti/glitter are prohibited.
- Monopods are preferred, but tripods may be used if they do not obstruct paths. Note that tripods are not allowed in Kingwood Hall or the Display Greenhouse.
- Paths and doorways must be kept clear to avoid blocking access for other guests.
- Photographers and guests may not move garden fixtures, statues, planters, or large furniture.
- All photography sessions must be completed at least 30 minutes before closing unless special arrangements are made with Guest Services.
- The photographer and the group must leave the facility and all related areas in their original condition and ensure that any hired vendors do the same. Photographers will be held accountable for any damage caused by themselves, their clients, crew members, or models and will be responsible for the cost of repair or replacement.
Kingwood Center Gardens Brand Usage
The Kingwood Center Gardens logo and name may only be used for commercial purposes with written permission and final proof approval from the Development and Marketing department. Contact Kingwood in advance for arrangements.
Cancellation and Rescheduling Policy
Kingwood Center Gardens is subject to weather variations and temporary closures. If a session is canceled, rescheduling will be attempted but not guaranteed. All rescheduling must be coordinated with the Guest Services department.
Photography Rights
Your attendance at Kingwood Center Gardens grants permission for the Gardens to display or publish any photographs in which you appear, which may be used in Gardens publications and media. If you prefer not to be photographed, please contact [email protected].
Contact information: (419) 522-0211
