Photography Policy at the Minnesota Arboretum

The Council has been informed the arboretum is considering, and may in fact adopt, the policy below regarding photography at the arboretum in the future:




Arboretum Photography Policy Highlights
(This is a preliminary version; a complete policy will be published soon.) 

Photography is an important element of a visit to the Arboretum for many visitors. What better way to capture the blooms of the beautiful gardens, share your nature explorations, highlight your favorite part of seasonal exhibits and enjoy your experience again by way of a photography lens.
To ensure the gardens, woodlands and trails, gathering spaces and buildings can remain welcoming places for all, please respect others, stay on pathways, keep on perimeter of gardens and preserve flowers for all to enjoy. See photography rules of the road below:

• Amateur photographers:please limit the use of non-commercial tripods-indoors and out-to no more than 5 minutes. 

• Professional photographers with business photography licenses issued by the Arboretum: Contact Facility Rental staff in advance of any photo shoots.

• Media or publication photographers on assignment: Contact Marketing & Public Relations staff in advance of any photo shoots.

• Arboretum Photographers Society members on assignment: Present assignment form upon request.

• No back-lighting or screens allowed, except at before- or after-hour sessions or with written permission.

• Please stay on trails; do not walk into the gardens. Doing so can severely damage plants.

• Respect our wildlife and their habitat.  If the animal seems stressed, move back and use a longer lens.

• Please be considerate of other visitors. Do not block pathways or interrupt special event spaces (e.g, weddings, private events).

• Do not photograph anyone without their permission, unless you are shooting crowd shots.

• Respect other photographers and always ask before joining others who may already be shooting in an area.

• When shooting outdoors, be prepared for the weather and any unexpected events.

To see the full text of this proposed policy go to: www.arboretum.umn.edu/PhotographyGuidelines.aspx

If you wish to address the issue with the arboretum it is suggested you contact:

                                   Judy Hohmann at:  jhohman@emn.edu
                                   Tom Dreeze at:  dreez001@umn.edu