Photographers are welcome at The Brenton Arboretum. If you are an amateur photographer you are not required to adhere to the Professional Photography Policies listed here.
An amateur photographer can be considered visitors taking pictures of landscapes, wildlife, friends, or family while on a regular visit to the Arboretum. A professional photographer will be someone coming to the Arboretum specifically to take photos of people or products for the purpose of getting paid or promoting a product or service.
Professional Photographers — those who are being paid by clients to take photos — are required to have a Photographer’s Membership to the Arboretum. This membership is valid for 12 months from the time of purchase and enables you to host as many paid photography sessions at the Arboretum as you like. Professional Photography Memberships can be purchased here.
Photography Policy at The Brenton Arboretum
The Brenton Arboretum is a stunning backdrop for photography of all kinds.
We welcome both professional and personal sessions, but we ask all visitors to follow these guidelines to keep the Arboretum safe, beautiful, and enjoyable for everyone.
Parking & Vehicle Access
- Park only in designated parking areas
- No parking on grass, under trees, or off the gravel road – this includes vehicles used as props
- If you need special vehicle access call ahead to coordinate: 515-992-4211
- NOTE: Roads and bridges at the Arboretum can be challenging for large vehicles. Plan ahead to avoid tow-truck adventures.
Protecting the Landscape
- Do not pick, clip, break, or permanently bend flowers, branches, or grasses.
- Treat all natural features with care. Leave no trace or evidence you have been there.
Your Responsibility as a Photographer
- You are responsible for your clients’ behavior during the session.
- Sessions with multiple props, staging, or costume changes are considered professional — whether for-hire or not.
- Even for “just-for-fun” or promotional shoots, if your session looks professional, professional policies apply.
Large Groups & Vehicles
- Groups arriving by bus, limo, or other large vehicle must call at least 3 days in advance: 515-992-4211.
- Exception: No advance coordination is needed if your clients have rented the Arboretum for their event.
- Share our Bus Route Map with your driver for a smoother, tow-truck-free, arrival and departure.
After-Hours Photography
- The Arboretum’s regular hours are 8am to sunset.
- Sunset is based on official times at sunrise-sunset.org
- To request access outside of regular hours, call 515-992-4211
PROHIBITED Items & Activities
- Pyrotechnics of any kind; this includes sparklers, fireworks, gender-reveal smoke bombs, etc.
- Helium balloons
- Silly string, glitter, confetti, or fake flower petals, this includes silk, plastic, or paper. Real flower petals are permitted.
- Open flames
- Livestock without prior approval (horses, ponies, llamas, goats, etc.). Use of livestock in photo sessions at the Arboretum requires an appointment and additional fees. Call 515-992-4211 to coordinate.
Photographers’ Etiquette
- Follow all policies above
- Be courteous to other guests and photographers
- Limit your time at popular photo spots if others are waiting.
- Tag The Brenton Arboretum when posting your photos — we love seeing your work!
Professional Photographer Rental Package
Our Professional Photographer Rental Package allows photographers exclusive access to their preferred photo locations (up to three) during their rental hours. The Arboretum will provide staff to ensure that guests or other photographers do not impede your ability access and work in the preferred location.
You are NOT required to have a Photography Rental to use the Arboretum for your sessions. This option is for those photographers who would like to have exclusive access to prime photography locations throughout their reserved time.
Rental Details & Requirements:
To ensure the best experience for both photographers and Arboretum guests, all professional photography sessions must be scheduled through our Rental Department and follow the guidelines below:
- Photography Membership
All photographers must hold a current Photography Membership. If you are not a current member, a membership must be purchased at the time of booking. - Flexible Locations
Want to photograph in multiple spots? We’re happy to work with you to select a couple of locations. You’re welcome to move between sites during your reserved time. - Inclusive Rental Time
Your rental time must include all setup, decorating, photography sessions, and cleanup. Please plan accordingly. - On-Site Support
An Arboretum team member will be on-site during your rental to assist with guest greetings, parking, and general traffic flow. - Props & Animals
All large props and live animals must be approved in advance by our Rental Coordinator.( tents, campers, antique cars, tractors.) - Safety First
For the safety of all guests and the preservation of our natural space, we do not allow open flames, candles, pyrotechnics, or fireworks of any kind.
Photography pricing – special event
- $75 per hour (2-hour minimum required)
- $300 security/cleaning deposit
This deposit is fully refundable provided the grounds are left undamaged and clean following your session.