Photography Permit Program

From family portraits and engagement sessions to senior photos and maternity photography, Elawa Farm has become a cherished setting for capturing life's milestones. We're honored that so many families choose our historic gardens and grounds as the backdrop for these special memories.

To help preserve the beauty of our property while ensuring an enjoyable experience for all visitors, Elawa Farm requires a Photography Stewardship Permit for all professional portrait photography sessions.

Every permit directly supports the care of our historic gardens and grounds and advances Elawa Farm's mission to connect people to local food, agriculture, education, and nature.

Photography Stewardship Permit

Permit Fee: $100 per session

Portrait sessions include:

  • Family photography

  • Engagements

  • Maternity

  • Senior portraits

  • Couples

  • Graduation

  • Lifestyle portraits

Your permit includes:

  • One professional portrait photography session

  • Up to 8 participants

  • Access to publicly available outdoor spaces during your reserved time

  • Non-exclusive use of the property

Commercial advertising, product photography, workshops, styled shoots, and large productions require separate approval and pricing.

Photography Guidelines

The following are not permitted:

  • Drones

  • Smoke bombs, colored powder, or fog machines

  • Confetti, glitter, rice, or artificial flower petals

  • Open flames or fireworks

  • Climbing on historic structures, fences, trees, or garden features

  • Moving benches, planters, or Farm furnishings

  • Props or equipment that may damage the property

To help preserve Elawa Farm for everyone, photographers and clients agree to:

  • Remain on designated paths and lawns.

  • Protect gardens, flowers, trees, and historic features.

  • Respect fellow visitors and Farm staff.

  • Avoid blocking walkways, entrances, or active program spaces.

  • Leave the property exactly as you found it.

Failure to follow these guidelines may result in the session being ended without refund.

Weather & Rescheduling

Sessions may be rescheduled due to severe weather, subject to availability. Permit fees are
non-refundable except when Elawa Farm closes because of unsafe weather or unforeseen circumstances.

Why We Require a Permit

The landscapes that make Elawa Farm a beautiful destination require year-round care. Photography Stewardship Permit fees help maintain our historic gardens, walking paths, and grounds while supporting educational programming, community events, and initiatives that strengthen our local food system.

When you choose Elawa Farm for your photography session,
you're also helping preserve this special place for future generations.

Apply for a Photography Stewardship Permit

Professional photographers must obtain a permit before conducting portrait sessions on Elawa Farm property.

We recommend reserving your preferred date several weeks in advance, particularly during spring and fall. Please fill out the form below to purchase a permit and arrange a time. Contact info@elawafarm.org with any further questions.