PHOTOGRAPHY POLICY

 

The photography guidelines below are intended for all guests, but a photography permit is necessary for those who wish to use the Gardens for organized photography.

Old Westbury Gardens encourages its guests to take casual photographs and videos of their visit for their own personal use. However, personal photographs and videos may not be used for commercial purposes. Photography must not interfere with the enjoyment of Old Westbury Gardens’ other guests. The use of drones, props, costumes, photography reflectors, and clothing changes are strictly forbidden. 

Organized photography sessions are at the discretion of Old Westbury Gardens and require a permit issued by the Gardens. Organized photography includes, but not limited to, engagement, portfolio, wedding, family, or birthday photography. Old Westbury Gardens reserves the right to refuse or cancel any photography permit with legitimate cause. All permit requests are accepted on a “first come, first serve” basis.

To ensure the safety of our guests and staff during COVID-19, photography permits are currently not available.

Please note: The photography policy was created to protect the grounds and Westbury House. 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. 

Photography Policy & Guidelines

  • All who wish to use Old Westbury Gardens s as a backdrop/setting for organized photography, even if the photographer is NOT a professional, must purchase a photography permit.

  • Organized photography includes, but not limited to, engagement, portfolio, wedding, family, or birthday photography.

  • Photos taken to be sold or exhibited as art require a permit.

Press photography must be organized through the visitor services department. Photographers with appropriate credentials for promotion of the Gardens will not be charged a fee, but must be accompanied by staff during their visit. Contact Paul Hunchak  (516) 333-0048 Ext. 307.

Wedding, Engagement and all other Special Occasion photography requests require a reservation through the Private Photography Department.

Download the Wedding Photography Permit Request Form.
Download the Special Occasion (engagement, family) Photography Permit Request Form.
Wedding Photo Permit Request at Old Westbury Gardens FAQs

Commercial Photography: For more information please contact Paul Hunchak - (516) 333-0048 Ext. 307.

By purchasing a photography permit you agree to abide by the following policies and guidelines:

  • Photography sessions cannot take place before or after your permitted time.

  • No pets are allowed in the Gardens (service animals excepted).

  • No smoking is permitted in the Gardens, including vaporizers and e-cigarettes.

  • The use of drones is strictly prohibited.

  • Clients must be fully and appropriately clothed (i.e., no nudity, swimsuits, lingerie, etc.)

  • Clients must arrive fully prepared, including hair, makeup and styling.

  • No dressing rooms or storage areas will be provided unless the room package was purchased.

  • Photography sessions should not disrupt visitor access, employee access, special events or pedestrian flow.

  • Tripods, gear and people must stay on paths at all time and not stand or walk through dirt, mulch and flower beds.

  • Old Westbury Gardens property may not be moved or disturbed. This includes, but is not limited to: picking/cutting plant material, moving benches/displays, etc.

  • Trees, walls, fences, statues or any other structures may not be climbed. Plant beds and water features may not be entered.

  • Motorized and non-motorized vehicles are not permitted, with the exception of wheelchairs and strollers.

  • Professional photography is prohibited during certain Gardens events, including but not limited to: Fall/ Spring Dog Weekends, Scottish Games Festival.

  • The Gardens reserves the right to halt any photography sessions deemed to be disruptive.

  • The Gardens assumes no responsibility for loss, theft, or damage to any equipment or belongings.

  • All participants must be present and enter the Gardens as a group. We cannot accommodate late or individual arrivals. .

  • Any unauthorized portrait/commercial photography sessions will be escorted from the Gardens.

Related Issues

  • Absolutely NO wedding ceremonies may be performed on the Gardens property without advance reservation with our Private Events Department. Parties not in compliance will be asked to leave immediately.

  • Gardens staff members may approach photographers at any time and request to see the photography permit.

  • Gardens staff may approach photographers to discuss alternatives to their session if Gardens maintenance or special events are in progress.

  • Groups found violating any of our policies will be asked to end their session and will be escorted from the Gardens.

  • All artwork on display at Old Westbury Gardens is subject to copyright and other intellectual property law. It is the responsibility of the photographer to secure appropriate permissions for the use of artwork images. Permission to photograph at the Gardens does not include permission to use images of copyrighted artwork and the Gardens is unable to provide such permissions.

Please note: Old Westbury Gardens reserves the right to turn away photographers who are not operating in accordance with our rules and regulations, as well as photographers who have not made reservations.

Old Westbury Gardens reserves the right to adjust these policies at any time, with or without notice, in the best interest of the Gardens and the general public.