Photography Contract Frequently Asked Questions:
When do I need to get my permit? Permits need to be obtained and paid for in advance. Staff may be able to process payment on the day of; however, this is not guaranteed. Call the number listed above to check for availability and reserve a time. Portrait photography(pictures of people) OF ANY KIND is prohibited without a proper permit.
How can I pay for a photo shoot? We accept cash, checks (made payable to Indy Parks), or Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or AMEX. Credit card payments need to be arranged with staff.
Do we still have to pay admission if we have paid for a photo shoot? Yes. All participants (including photographer) must pay admission to the Conservatory. Admission to the Sunken Garden is free. This payment may be made ahead of time with a staff member.
Can I have my photo shoot after hours? No. All photo shoots will be scheduled during public hours. Photo shoots must be completed 1 hour prior to closing.
Do I need a permit if I am just taking pictures of the plants? As long as you are not taking photos for commercial purposes, no permit is needed. Please note that tripods are not permitted in the Conservatory. If they are commercial photographs, a commercial photo permit is needed.
How will you know if my photographer is a professional? We consider the use of professional equipment (anything more than a camera and one tripod) a professional photo shoot. If Conservatory staff suspects a professional shoot without the proper permit, the party will be asked to leave and no refund will be issued.
Do I need a permit if I have already booked my wedding at the Conservatory? If you have a valid contract for a wedding at the Conservatory or Gardens, your photo permit is included in your rental. This is for photos taken on the day of the wedding only. If you plan to take photos on a different day, you will need the appropriate permit.
What are the rules for photo shoots? A complete list of policies will be outlined on your signed permit and must be followed by all in attendance. Rules include: stay on pathways and designated seating areas, refrain from sitting or standing on fountains, plants, or other props, and do not block pathways. Also note that there are no changing facilities available.
