Descanso Gardens welcomes artists and photographers to capture our natural beauty. Please read all policies and procedures outlined below before purchasing a non-refundable permit as some policies have changed. All posed photography, both commercial and non-commercial, requires a reservation and fee.

Reserving a One-Time-Use Photography Permit:

• Permit holders are welcome to take photographs on our grounds according to the policies and procedures outlined in the Photography Agreement. 
• Every courtesy will be extended to those wishing to use the gardens for photography purposes so long as such use does not interfere with public use.
• Descanso Gardens cannot guarantee that all areas of the garden will be available for photography on the day of reservation. All garden activities such as classes, tours, and landscape projects will have exclusive rights to that reserved area. Some areas of the garden, including the Rose Garden, may not be available on the day of your reservation. Seasonal restrictions may also apply.
• All permit holders must check in at Guest Services to sign the Photography Agreement and to check out a Photographer badge.
• Permit holders are invited to check in at Guest Services up to two hours before the garden closes and stay as late as closing time. Check in time is 9am-3pm during regular hours and 9am-5pm during extended hours.
• Same-day photography bookings can be made on a first-come, first-served basis, with limited availability each day.
• There are limitations on equipment that amateur photographers may bring into the Gardens. Tripods are allowed, but cannot be placed in plant beds or on benches. Additional photography equipment and props are prohibited except under commercial contract through the Special Events office.
• Props such as balloons, bicycles, confetti, signage, blankets, stools, chairs/tables, plants and flowers are not permitted.
• Clothing changes are not permitted.

Group Sizes and Prices

• GROUP SIZE 1-5 people $300
• GROUP SIZE 6-10 people $400
• GROUP SIZE 11-15 people $600
• GROUP SIZE 16-20 people $700

Groups of 21 people or more should contact the Special Events office at specialevents@descansogardens.org or 818-949-4291 in advance.

Refunds

• Photography Permits are non-refundable
• Sessions can be rescheduled up to 48 hours before the scheduled appointment.

For more information and details on availability:

Email photography@descansogardens.org or call 818-949-4200