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Photography

Photography

Effective July 1, 2024 the Newton Arboretum & Botanical Gardens has a new Photography Policy:

The Newton Arboretum is proud to provide an amazing destination for all types of outdoor photography and videography. However, it takes considerable resources, including materials and labor to maintain and grow the gardens.  To help offset these costs, effective July 1, 2024 the NABG requires photographers to purchase a Photography-Videography (PV) Permit.

All revenue generated from PV permits directly supports the care of the NABG and the beauty of the gardens.  As a nonprofit this income is essential to our mission. THANK YOU for your horticultural assistance!

Who Must Purchase a PV Permit?

  • If you receive compensation for the photos/videos
  • If you are promoting a brand, or taking photos/videos for a sponsored post
  • If you are taking posed photographs using professional equipment

–then you need to secure a PV Permit from the office.

Please note:  purchasing a PV permit does not give priority of use to any area of the NABG.  Events and private rentals will have priority at all times and you may NOT enter these areas during reserved times. 

Photography Rules

  1. Photographers and their clients MUST follow all established Rules & Etiquette as posted on the NABG website. Please review before your session.
  2. Tripods and small equipment are allowed but must not block paths or interfere with other garden visitors.  Neither electricity nor access to electricity are provided. 
  3. The use of large props is not allowed without prior approval.
  4. The use of drones at the NABG is strictly prohibited.  
  5. To avoid conflicts with rentals and events, the NABG encourages photo sessions to be scheduled with the business office at least 24 hours in advance.  Any session involving 4 or more persons is REQUIRED to schedule. To schedule contact the office during posted office hours. 
  6. Photo sessions may only occur within NABG operating hours (Sunrise – Sunset).  After dark sessions are prohibited.  
  7. Photography of nudes, swimsuits, lingerie, or other subjects of a graphic nature are prohibited.
  8. The NABG assumes no responsibility for loss, theft, or damage to any equipment or belongings.  
  9. NABG maintains its right to use commercial photography of the arboretum & gardens.  Such images will be credited to the photographer.  
  10. For ease of identification, the NABG will issue all approved applicants permit badges that must be worn during photo sessions. If visiting the office to obtain a badge is impossible, PV permits can be verified via digital receipt on a mobile device when using the Zeffy online store.
  11. Failure to follow policies is grounds for permit revocation and forfeiture of any and all fees paid.  Furthermore, NABG reserves the right to ask anyone violating the Photography & Videography Policy to leave the premises immediately.

How to Apply

Single Session PV Permit = $25 (good for 1 photo session)
Annual PV Permit = $100 (unlimited sessions, July 1 – June 30 of the following year)

The easiest way to get a permit is to use our online (opens in new tab):

Zeffy STORE

A paper application can be submitted as well. Just DOWNLOAD the pdf, fill it out, and either drop off or mail it to the NABG office. You may also use email. (Please use the Contact Email listed on the application)

  • Please make checks payable to the Newton Arboretum & Botanical Gardens (NABG).
  • Contact the office at (641) 791-3021 to submit payment using a credit card.

Mail:
Newton Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
3030 N 4th Ave E
PO Box 321
Newton, IA 50208

Thank you for supporting the Arboretum. We value your patronage and horticultural assistance!

We always encourage candid and personal photos. If you are not selling, sponsoring, or receiving any form of compensation for your photography – take all the photos you like. However, please remember ALL photographers must obey the rules established by the Newton Arboretum.

We encourage you to share nature & candid photos from the gardens on social media using the hashtag:

#newtonarboretum

The Newton Arboretum & Botanical Gardens celebrates nature by focusing on horticulture, community, and growth.