Photo/Video Policy

For decades, fun, beautiful, and wondrous experiences at Bernheim have been captured in photographs and videos that have been shared all over the world. We’re wildly serious about being a picture-perfect backdrop or setting and welcome the opportunity to work with you!

Taking photos and videos for personal, non-profit use does not require a fee other than the $15 recommended donation for entrance to Bernheim.
For-profit commercial photography/videography and portrait photography require a fee as outlined below. Professional photography and videography at receptions, wedding ceremonies, and other private events scheduled through Bernheim Forest are permitted at no additional fee.

The policy and fees below are necessary to ensure that there are no conflicts with ongoing rentals and events and that planned photography/videography is in keeping with Bernheim’s privacy and mission.

Photography Fee

I. Portrait Photography

Portrait photography taken by a professional photographer consists of pictures using Bernheim as a background such as graduation, family, wedding, engagement, prom, senior, or similar, which are not part of a private event such as a wedding ceremony. Photographers must purchase:

An annual Bernheim Commercial Photographer’s Permit can be purchased for $150. Please call (502) 215-7155 or stop by the Visitor Center to purchase your photo pass.

II. Commercial Photography / Video

Photography and video sold for commercial purposes and the use in movies, documentaries, television commercials, brochures, business cards, annual reports, advertising, retail products, websites, model portfolios, promotional projects, music videos, or similar profit-making projects must be scheduled in advance.

Fees will be negotiated independently of the registration. Unless otherwise negotiated, Bernheim will receive site recognition in final products.

Coordination for all commercial photography is handled by our Communications and Marketing team.

Photography / Videography Guidelines

All shoots must be consistent with Bernheim’s family-friendly experience.
Advance notification and approval for commercial photography/videography is required, to ensure there are no conflicts with previously scheduled programs and events.
Plants and artwork may not be rearranged, cut, moved, or handled in any way.
Artwork such as sculptures are protected by the artist’s copyright and may not be photographed/videoed for reproduction.
Photography and video of resident wildlife will be permitted only when such wildlife will not be harmed or disturbed thereby.
The photographer/videographer is liable for all damages, expenses, and loss.
Bernheim reserves the right to limit access to certain areas.
Remain on the pathways and/or lawn.
Professional photographers/videographers are required to carry their permit at all times.
If Bernheim staff is required during a shoot, their assistance must be arranged in advance and their time will be billed at an hourly rate determined during the approval process.
All other rules and regulations of Bernheim apply.
Bernheim has the right of refusal to projects outside of values and/or mission alignment.

III. Controlled Vehicle (Drone) Policy

Bernheim is a place for people to connect with nature undistracted by technologies imposed upon them. For this reason, Bernheim Forest prohibits the use of all drones or remote controlled vehicles by individuals, corporations, or government agencies in the airspace above Bernheim, without prior, explicit written permission from the Executive Director and/or Chief Operating Officer.

In rare instances, Bernheim may allow the use of such equipment for scientific or artistic pursuits. Inquiries should be directed to Communications & Marketing. Fees and permits are negotiated on a case-by-case basis. Any unauthorized use of drones within or above this private land may result in immediate escort from Bernheim property, a potential ban from entry, and/or other remedies allowed by law.