PORTRAIT & WEDDING
PHOTOGRAPHY
GUIDELINES and PERMITS
PLEASE NOTE: We are no longer issuing photo permits for the remainder of 2024. Permit requests are now open for Spring 2025, with dates available starting April 1st.
Lush flower gardens, tree-lined walks, and the grand architecture are the perfect settings for event photography.
Photo credit: Anthony Vazquez
All who wish to use Old Westbury Gardens as a backdrop/setting for portrait or wedding photography, even if the photographer is NOT a professional, must obtain a permit since all permit holders are escorted by staff and there are insurance requirements.
Portrait or wedding photography is defined as, but not limited to: senior, engagement, professional head shots, family, graduation, wedding, etc. Portrait or commercial photography is by appointment only and requests must be submitted at least 2 weeks in advance of permit date. (Last minute photo permits may be issued—based on availability—for an additional fee.)
The first step in the process to obtain a permit is to email us and find out if the date and time is available. To ensure that you do not miss our e-mail reply, add mzamora@oldwestburygardens.org to your contact list. It is important to do so especially with a Gmail account as Gmail tends to mark our emails as spam. Thank you!
Please note: The photography permit policy was created to protect the grounds and the artwork, both inside and outdoors. Additionally, the policy allows the Gardens to control the number of photography shoots on the grounds at one time to lessen the disruptions of scheduled events. Fees directly support the mission of Old Westbury Gardens.
Preservation in Action
The preservation efforts at Old Westbury Gardens in 2024 will involve remedial work on the colonnade and adjacent fountain. As a result, this area will be temporarily closed to visitors and will not be available for photography permits. This is an important step in maintaining the beauty and integrity of these historical structures.
Prom Photos
Old Westbury Gardens welcomes the opportunity to be a part of your prom photoshoot. To ensure a seamless experience for all guests, we have established the following guidelines:
Limit of two limousines per photo permit: We understand the allure of arriving in style, but to maintain the tranquility of our grounds, we kindly ask that each photo session be accompanied by no more than two limousines.
Limit of one photographer per photo permit: Quality over quantity is our motto. To guarantee that your photoshoot receives the undivided attention it deserves, we request that each session be accompanied by a single photographer.
Maximum of 20 individuals on the property with the permit: We believe in the magic of togetherness, but to preserve the serenity of our gardens, we ask that no more than 20 individuals be present during your session. All guests must arrive and depart at the same time for the utmost coordination.
Fee of $350 for a 90-minute session: Your prom photoshoot investment includes 90 minutes of picturesque moments within our estate. Sessions can commence as early as 10:30 AM, with the latest starting time being 5:30 PM, mirroring our policies for wedding photoshoots.
To reserve, please fill out the form below. If you have questions, please email Mercedes Zamora at mzamora@oldwestburygardens.org
Marriage Proposal Photos
Photo credit: Cassarino Studios
Old Westbury Gardens has been the setting for many proposal through the years and we welcome yours.
However, proposals must not interfere with the experience of other visitors. Signs, props, music, alcohol, artificial flowers and balloons are not permitted.
If you are planning on photographing the event, a permit is required. This is regardless of the status of the photographer (professional, amateur, personal friend, etc.) or the type of camera used.
Please CLICK HERE for information on our “Garden Bliss” Proposal Package.