Photography & Artist Policies

At Longview Arboretum and Nature Center, we are committed to providing a beautiful and inspiring environment for all visitors, including photographers and Artists. Please review the guidelines below regarding the acceptable use of the gardens for these purposes.

**UPDATED PHOTOGRAPHY POLICY**

Please read and observe all guidelines for guests. ALL professional photographic portrait sessions require a reservation through the Visitor and Nature Center.

Photography Hourly Pass

Hourly Pass Includes:

  • Includes the photographer and up to 2 additional guests.
  • Regular admission rates will apply to each additional guest.
  • The fee covers the use of tripods and other photography equipment.
  • Photography is permitted during regular Arboretum hours. No photography will be allowed after 4:30 PM unless an appointment has been made in advance.

Photography Day Pass

Day Pass Includes:

  • Full-day access to the gardens for the photographer.
  • Admission for the photographer and up to 25 guests.
  • Regular admission rates will apply to each additional guest.
  • Includes the use of tripods and other photography equipment.
  • Photography is permitted during regular Arboretum hours. No photography will be allowed after 4:30 PM unless an appointment has been made in advance.

Photography Annual Membership

Membership Includes:

  • Year-round access to the gardens during regular Arboretum hours for the Photographer.
  • Admission for the photographer and unlimited guests.
  • Includes the use of tripods and other photography equipment.
  • Photography is permitted during regular Arboretum hours. No photography will be allowed after 4:30 PM unless an appointment has been made in advance.

Extra Magic

“Magic Hour” appointments will be available on the FIRST THURSDAY AND THE FIRST SATURDAY of the month, as is seasonally appropriate. A limited number of appointments we be opened for reservation after the Arboretum is closed for the day.

Appointments will be available to Photography Annual Members FIRST, and open to additional photographers if slots are available.

Advance reservations are required, and space is limited to allow an uncrowded and unique experience for all. 

General Guidelines for Photography

  1. Hobbyist Photography: If you are a photography enthusiast looking to capture the beauty of the Gardens for non-commercial purposes, you are not subject to fees and reservation requirements listed below. 
  2. Appointments: For photography sessions after 4:30 PM, an appointment must be scheduled in advance.
  3. Equipment: The use of tripods, lighting, and other photography equipment is allowed, provided it does not interfere with the enjoyment or safety of other visitors.  Please do not obstruct pathways or bridges.
  4. Set Up/Take Down: Photo sessions must be complete within the allotted pass period.  This includes set up and take down of any props or equipment.
  5. Changing Areas: Changing clothes in public restrooms is prohibited.  If you need the use of a changing area, one can be rented for an additional fee based on availability.
  6. Guests: Additional guests beyond the specified limits for each photography pass will be required to pay the regular admission rates.
  7. Respect for the Arboretum: Photographers are asked to be respectful of the gardens, plants, and wildlife. Please do not damage any of the natural features or disrupt other visitors.
  8. Commercial Photography: Any commercial photography requires prior approval from the Arboretum management.
  9. Liability: The Arboretum is not responsible for any damage to equipment or personal injury that may occur during photography sessions.
  10. Damage: All photographers will be responsible for any damage or injuries related to the use of the garden during photo shoots. Individuals scheduling photography sessions will be responsible for damage to walkways, structures, plants, garden amenities, and any personal injuries that may occur.
  11. Violation: Any groups found to be in violation of these guidelines will be asked to end their session and vacate the garden.

**DRONES AND BALLOONS ARE PROHIBITED IN ALL OUTDOOR AREAS**

We appreciate your cooperation in following these guidelines, ensuring that the Longview Arboretum and Nature Center remains a beautiful space for all to enjoy.

For inquiries or to schedule a photography appointment, please contact our visitor services team at 903.212.2181.

Thank you for choosing the Longview Arboretum and Nature Center for your photography experience!

General Guidelines for Artists

  1. Please bring your own stool/seat and all supplies. Do not leave your equipment or opened painting supplies unattended.
  2. You are free to choose your location; however certain venues may be unavailable due to a previously scheduled Arboretum or private events, or routine maintenance.  Please contact the office to determine if there will be outdoor events that day.
  3. Please do not set up within garden beds or disturb plant collections, and please avoid blocking main paths and walkways.
  4. The Arboretum is generally irrigated early in the morning, before opening at 9am, so be mindful that shaded areas may remain damp until mid-morning.
  5. Non-commercial photography is allowed in the gardens.

Please Note: All policies subject to change growth update .

Growing an arboretum involves a lot of seeds.

Your financial gift allows us to buy much needed planting materials for this garden. Please consider giving today! We also have several volunteer opportunities if you can give us your time, click “learn more“ for more information. 

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Admission & Hours

  • Wednesday - Saturday: 10am-5pm
  • Sunday: 12pm-5pm

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We expanded our roots!

The Longview Arboretum has joined the American Horticultural Society Reciprocal Garden Network.

A membership with the Longview Arboretum entitles you to special admission privileges and discounts at 380+ gardens throughout North America including the Dallas & Fort Worth Botanic Gardens, Houston, San Antonio, Botanical Garden of the Ozarks in Arkansas, New Orleans, and more. 

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