Photography
Reynolda’s lush greenspace, iconic architecture, and colorful Gardens provide an ideal location for formal and informal outdoor photography.
Professional and portrait photography indoors at Reynolda is not permitted; however, amateur photography is allowed throughout the Museum (see rule 02 below). No flash or selfie sticks are permitted and some exhibitions may not allow photography, so be sure to check signage or ask a protection officer.
Outdoor, professional photography must be scheduled in advance using the form below. Commercial photography and drone photography require advance written permission.
Reynolda is the private property of Wake Forest University and the following policy includes the Formal Gardens, Golf Links Meadow, Lake Katharine Wetland, boathouse, front field, woods, Reynolda Village, and Reynolda House Museum of American Art.
- 01. Photo sessions in any part of Reynolda must be scheduled
This policy applies to all professional and non-professional portrait photographers using any area of the property at any time. Mini sessions are not permitted. A reservation and fee must be made for each client. Professional or media photography is not allowed inside the Museum unless scheduled and approved in advance. Portrait photography is also not allowed inside the Museum.
- 02. Personal, amateur photography is free
Only taking photographs of and at Reynolda for personal use is permitted at no fee. Inside the Museum, no flash or selfie sticks are permitted, and some exhibitions may not allow photography, so be sure to check signage or ask a protection officer. Wake Forest University groups may take photographs at no cost, but reservations are required. We encourage you to tag your photos on social media with #Reynolda.
Please see below pertaining to busy season in the Gardens.
- 03. BUSY SEASONS: Please schedule and pay in advance
It makes us happy to be a part of your special day! Due to increased visitation, Reynolda Gardens ask that any special event photography (amateur or professional) be scheduled and paid for in advance during the following months: March to June and September to October. This includes prom and homecoming photography.
Your cooperation ensures that we continue to preserve these historic spaces to the best of our ability.
Please be mindful and limit group sizes to six visitors and one photographer (includes any attending friends/family).
- 04. A fee is required for outdoor portrait and professional photography at Reynolda Gardens
- Photography of one person or one approved group is considered portrait photography. Sessions are 90 minutes. Reservation requests must be made. Please note that photographers may not schedule multiple groups or reservations within a single 90-minute time slot.
Please schedule any setup or needs within your 90-minute session. For example, if you book for 6 p.m., please do not arrive ahead of 6 p.m. as a courtesy to other parties who have booked earlier sessions.
Reservation fees must paid within 24 hours of the reservation or the reservation will be canceled. - Staff members and Wake Forest Security check the Gardens and grounds during non-office hours. Staff may ask to verify your name to confirm it is a paid photo session. Payment of sessions acknowledges you have read and agree to abide by our photo policy.
- Previously scheduled events and weddings take precedence over photography sessions. We will do our best to honor requests made at least 48 hours in advance.
- Photography of one person or one approved group is considered portrait photography. Sessions are 90 minutes. Reservation requests must be made. Please note that photographers may not schedule multiple groups or reservations within a single 90-minute time slot.
However, we reserve the right to deny a request or reschedule a reserved time if necessary. Areas are not closed to previously scheduled groups or to the general public during photography sessions.
Schedule your photography session:
Reservation fees must be paid within 24 hours or else the booking will be canceled.
- 05. Commercial photography
Photography and video for commercial use—indoors or outdoors—anywhere on Reynolda’s Campus is prohibited without express written consent. Contact Reynolda Marketing & Communications for more information.
- 06. Drone & aerial photography
Use of unmanned aerial vehicles or drones on Reynolda property by certified pilots is allowed only with prior written consent. Amateur drone photography is not permitted. Contact Reynolda Marketing & Communications for more information. - 07. General etiquette
- Plantings, furnishings, and other landscape features may not be moved.
- Conservatory and greenhouses are not available for photo shoots.
- Photographers and subjects may not stand in planting beds.
- Photographers and subjects must remain on mowed paths in the meadow.
- Parking is allowed in designated parking spaces only. Parking outside the front gate is not allowed at any time.
- We discourage the use of props. However small chairs, stools or baskets are allowed.