Welcome to Sherman Library & Gardens!
By entering the Sherman Library & Gardens’ property, all visitors understand that Sherman Library & Gardens representatives may photograph or record activities of participants through general admissions, programs and/or events. By entering, each individual hereby grants permission for Sherman Library & Gardens to use and/or publish their photograph or likeness or their child/children’s photograph or likeness photographed, or record their participation and or that of their child/children’s participation in Sherman Library & Gardens programs to promote its programs and services, and for any other purpose, without compensation to the individual and or their child/children.
Photography Sessions
Thank you for your interest in scheduling a photography session at Sherman Library & Gardens. Our beautiful botanical oasis rich in horticulture, history and art is the perfect setting for outdoor photo shoots. Sherman Library & Gardens welcomes visitors, commercial photographers, and members of the media on our grounds according to the policies and procedures outlined below.
“Vacation-style” or impromptu photography is permitted throughout the gardens without a reservation. Amateur photographers may not use their representations of the Library or Gardens for public or commercial use unless pre-approved by Sherman Library & Gardens.
If you’ve hired a professional photographer, the fee for up to two hours of photography in the Gardens is $150. Photo shoots must be scheduled with our Venue Manager and must take place during regular Garden hours, which are 10:30 am until 4 pm, Monday – Sunday. The photography fee must be paid in advance.
When you arrive on your photo shoot date, let the gate attendant know that you’re here for an “Approved Photo Shoot” in the Gardens. The gate attendant will provide your photographer with an “Approved for Photography” adhesive badge that they will need to wear in a visible spot during the duration of your photo shoot at the Gardens.
Photography Guidelines
- Tripods are allowed but cannot be placed in plant beds or on benches.
- Additional photographic equipment is prohibited except under commercial contract. This includes but is not limited to: drones, lights, reflectors, props, costumes, and models.
- All persons included in the shoot must arrive ‘camera ready’ as dressing rooms are not available and public restrooms may not be used for dressing and/or changing.
- No activities are permitted that may disturb or limit the experience of other visitors.
- Photography is not permitted inside any buildings on the property, this includes the historic Adobe, our restaurant 608 Dahlia, and Sherman Library.
All posed photography, both commercial and non-commercial, require a reservation.
Non-commercial, posed photography includes, but, is not limited to: Wedding and engagement photography, graduation and prom portraits, quinceañeras, maternity and family portraits.*
Availability & Reservations
- Photography sessions cannot be scheduled during special events or member-exclusive events.
- Reservations must be made at least two days in advance, walk-ins are not allowed.
- Sherman Library & Gardens reserves the right to all photography site locations at any given time with or without notice. Some sites may not be available on the day of your reservation due to unforeseen circumstances or Garden maintenance and seasonal restrictions may apply.
- Photography fees are based on the number of people entering the Gardens for the shoot. This number must include any photographers and/or videographers.
1 – 10 people: $150
Over 10 people: Contact Venue Manager
To reserve a photography session time, please contact: Beverly Morgan, Venue Manager, at [email protected] or call 949-673-2261 ext. 308.
Commercial Photography & Filming: For rate information and scheduling please contact Beverly Morgan, Venue Manager, at [email protected] or call 949-673-2261 ext. 308.
Student Portfolio Photography & Filming is permitted however, certain restrictions do apply. Reservations are required. For additional information and reservations please contact Beverly Morgan, Venue Manager, at [email protected] or call 949-673-2261 ext. 308.
*Sponsor Membership ($500) offers a one-time professional photography privilege for family or group photos in the Gardens (by appointment).