Photography Reservations

 

Photography at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden

Capture something beautiful.

The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden offers a beautiful, ever-changing backdrop for photos throughout the year. Whether you’re snapping a few photos during your visit or planning a special portrait session, we welcome you to capture your experience at the Garden.

Casual photography is welcome with admission.

If you’re taking personal photos or videos while enjoying a regular Garden visit, no photography reservation is needed.

Planning a posed photography session?

Family, senior, maternity, engagement, and other planned portrait sessions require an advance reservation, whether your photographer is a professional, friend, or family member.

Portrait Photography

Celebrate milestones and capture memories surrounded by the beauty of the Garden.

 Portrait Photography | $175

Up to 5 photography subjects + one photographer | 60 minutes

Group Portrait Photography | $225

6-15 photography subjects + one photographer | 60 minutes

Your reservation includes Garden admission for all photography subjects and one photographer. Photography takes place in public areas of the Garden during regular admission hours, subject to availability. The Garden remains open to other visitors during your session.

Wedding Photography

Make the Botanical Garden part of your day.

You don’t have to host your wedding at the Botanical Garden to choose it as the backdrop for your wedding photos.

Wedding Photography | $500

Up to 20 photography subjects + one photographer | 60 minutes

Wedding Photography + Suite | $750

Up to 20 photography subjects + one photographer | 90 minutes

Includes private suite access for changing and getting ready, subject to availability.

Garden admission is included for photography subjects and one photographer. Wedding photography reservations are for photography only and do not include ceremonies or vow exchanges.

Planning your wedding at the Garden? Photography during your contracted rental period is included according to the terms of your wedding package. No separate photography reservation is needed.

Annual Photography Pass

Photograph here throughout the year.

Professional photographers who regularly bring clients to the Garden can purchase an Annual Photography Pass for $400 per year. The pass covers standard portrait photography reservation fees throughout the year.

Advance reservations are still required and subject to availability. The pass applies to standard portrait photography and does not include wedding, commercial, prom/formal, or other specialty photography.

Additional named photographer | $100 per year

Prom & Formal Photography

The Botanical Garden may offer special ticketed photography opportunities for select school dances and formal events. Dates, times, and pricing vary.

Commercial & Business Photography

Planning photography or video for advertising, marketing, publications, products, or another commercial purpose? Please contact us in advance.

Availability and pricing are based on the scope of the project. Projects involving extensive equipment, staging, reserved spaces, or significant setup may require a venue rental.

Before Your Session

Help us protect the Garden and create a great experience for everyone. Photography sessions take place while the Garden is open to visitors and do not provide exclusive access to a particular location. Please remain on designated paths, keep Garden spaces accessible and arrive ready for your session. Tripods, lighting equipment, reflectors and props are not permitted for portrait or wedding photography.

Reservations & Cancellations

Photography sessions must be reserved in advance. Submit a request and our team will confirm availability before collecting payment. Your reservation is confirmed once availability has been approved and payment has been received.

Photography reservations may be rescheduled with at least 24 hours’ notice, subject to availability. Reservation fees are nonrefundable.

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