For decades, fun, beautiful and inspiring experiences at Bernheim have been captured in photographs and video that have been shared all over the world. At Bernheim, we welcome the opportunity to be a picture-perfect backdrop or setting.
- Taking photos and video for personal, non-profit use does not require a fee other than the $10 recommended donation for entrance to Bernheim.
- For-profit commercial photography / videography and portrait photography require a fee as outlined below. Professional photography and videography at receptions, wedding ceremonies and other private events scheduled through Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest are permitted at no additional fee.
The policy and fees below are necessary to ensure that there are no conflicts with ongoing rentals and events and that planned photography / videography is in keeping with Bernheim’s mission to connect people with nature.
Please call (502) 215-7155 or stop by the Visitor Center to purchase your photo pass.
Photography Fee
I. Portrait Photography
Portrait photography taken by a professional photographer consists of pictures utilizing Bernheim as a background such as graduation, family, wedding, engagement, prom, senior or similar photos which are not part of a private event such as a wedding ceremony. Photographers must purchase:
• An annual Bernheim Commercial Photographer’s Permit, which can be purchased for $150. Contact our membership department via email or call (502) 215-7155 to purchase this annual photo permit.
The Photographer’s Permit does not include the benefits of a Bernheim Membership.
II. Commercial Photography / Video
Photography and video sold for commercial purposes and the use in movies, documentaries, television commercials, brochures, business cards, annual reports, advertising, retail products, websites, model portfolios, promotional projects, music videos or similar profit-making projects must be scheduled in advance.
Fees will be negotiated independent of the registration. Unless otherwise negotiated, Bernheim will receive a site recognition in final products.
Coordination for all commercial photography is Amy Landon, Manager of Communications and Marketing, who will identify key members of the Bernheim team to be consulted based on the scope of the project. Contact her via email or call (502) 215-7150.
Photography / Videography Guidelines
• All shoots must be consistent with Bernheim’s family-friendly experience.
• Advance notification and approval for commercial photography / videography is required, in order to ensure there are no conflicts with previously scheduled programs and events.
• Parking is allowed only at designated parking spaces.
• Plants and artwork may not be rearranged, cut, moved or handled in any way.
• Artwork such as sculptures are protected by artist’s copyright and may not be photographed / videoed for the purpose of reproduction.
• Photography and video of resident wildlife will be permitted only when such wildlife will not be harmed or disturbed thereby.
• The photographer / videographer is liable for all damages, expenses and loss.
• Bernheim reserves the right to limit access to certain areas.
• No alcoholic beverages.
• No smoking.
• Remain on the pathways and/or lawn.
• Professional photographers / videographers are required to carry their permit at all times.
• If Bernheim staff is required during a shoot, their assistance must be arranged in advance and their time will be billed at an hourly rate determined during the approval process.
• All other rules and regulations of Bernheim apply.
III. Controlled Vehicle (Drone) Policy
Bernheim is a place for people to connect with nature undistracted by technologies imposed upon them. For this reason, Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest prohibits the use of all drones or remote controlled vehicles by individuals, corporations or government agencies in the airspace above Bernheim, without prior, explicit written permission from the Executive Director and/or Chief Operating Officer. In rare instances, Bernheim may allow use of such equipment for scientific or artistic pursuits. Inquiries should be directed to Amy Landon, Communications & Marketing Manager, (502) 215-7150 or via email. Fees and permits are negotiated on a case-by-case basis. Any unauthorized use of drones within or above this private land may result in the immediate escort from Bernheim property, a potential ban from entry, and/or other remedies allowed by law.
EFFECTIVE AS OF MAY 15, 2019