Photography & Filming

South Coast Botanic Garden is a beautiful setting for photos and capturing those special memories. We welcome commercial and non-commercial photography and filming according to the policies and procedures below.

All formal, posed portrait photography and filming at the South Coast Botanic Garden require a location permit, which start at $50, in addition to Garden General Admission. A formal, posed session includes weddings, engagements, family portraits, graduation, proms, quinceaneras, as well as senior portraits or photos taken for portfolios, even if the photographer is not a professional. Costume changes and/or models are only allowed with a commercial contract. There are limitations on equipment that photographers may bring into the Garden depending on the permit purchased. For VIP photo pass permits, large equipment and props must be preapproved from the Special Events Department before arriving. 

Please note:

• Some sites may not be available on the day of your reservation due to unforeseen circumstances.  Any party that has booked a private event in a particular location has an exclusive right to that reserved area.
• A reservation must be made to ensure that your photography session is on our calendar. Payments may be made by credit card. The permit fee may not be prorated for less time. 
• No reservations will be accepted for photography on our Garden Free Admission Day (3rd Tuesday of each month)
• Be sure to check out our Plan Your Visit page for Garden rules, guidelines and location closers

Click here for additional non-commercial photography policy restrictions

Photo Pass Types

Nature Photo Pass | Non-commercial Candid Photography

Guests are welcome to take informal, candid photography for personal use without a fee or special permission. However, additional photography equipment is prohibited (lights, reflectors, props, etc.) without a permit. This type of photography is restricted to the flora and fauna of the Garden.  Costume changes and/or models are only allowed with a commercial contract. Amateur photographers may not use their representations of the Garden for any public or commercial purpose unless approved by the South Coast Botanic Garden Foundation. 

Cost: General Garden Admission

Please contact the Visitor Services Center at 424-452-0920 for more information.

General Photo Pass Permit | Non-commercial Portrait Photography (including Holiday Family Photos) 
Groups of 5 and under including photographer/s. Each permit is good for the date/time of the confirmed reservation. Exit and re-entry is not permitted once checked in.
Time: 60 minutes
Cost: $50 permit fee plus Garden General Admission for each individual
Permitted: A single handheld camera only – equipment or props are NOT permitted

Please contact the events team at 424-352-1035 or eventsteam@southcoastbotanicgarden.org for pricing and to make your reservation.  Reservations must be made at least 5 days in advance for the General and VIP Non-Commercial Portrait Permits. South Coast Botanic Garden reserves the right to refuse admittance for photography and/or change its photo policy without advance notice.

VIP Photo Pass Permit | Non-commercial Portrait Photography (including Holiday Family Photos)
Groups over 5 guests including photographer/s. Each permit is good for the date/time of the confirmed reservation. Exit and re-entry is not permitted once checked in.
Time: 90 minutes
Cost: Permit fee, which includes 5 Garden General Admission tickets. Additional individuals are $15.
Permitted: Camera, equipment and/or props permitted if preapproved by Special Events Department before arriving

Please contact the events team at 424-352-1035 or eventsteam@southcoastbotanicgarden.org for pricing and to make your reservation.  Reservations must be made at least 5 days in advance for the General and VIP Non-Commercial Portrait Permits. South Coast Botanic Garden reserves the right to refuse admittance for photography and/or change its photo policy without advance notice.

Commercial Filming and Photography
South Coast Botanic Garden welcomes commercial filming and photography. Reservations and permits are required. The many collections and natural areas at South Coast Botanic Garden provide an ideal landscape for film and TV productions, commercials and print photography. Some of the more popular areas for filming and photography are:

• Banyan Grove
• Arizona Crossing
• Hawk’s Meadow
• Memorial Meadow
• Dorothy and John Bohannon Rose Garden
• Upper and Lower meadows with gazebos
• Dry lake bed

For additional information regarding filming, please contact filming@southcoastbotanicgarden.org for rates, procedures and policies.

Student Filming and Photography
Student projects are permitted. Commercial filming/photography fees will apply.

Please contact filming@southcoastbotanicgarden.org for rates, procedures and policies.