Guests are welcome to film or take photos during their visit except where signage indicates photography is not permitted. We ask that you refrain from photographing or filming Winterthur staff or other guests without their permission.
Special Occasion Photography: Engagement, Family, and More
As of September 7, 2026, special occasion photography requires a reservation. All members of the party, including the photographer, must purchase a General Admission ticket or be a Winterthur Member.
We welcome guests who wish to take photos to mark meaningful occasions—such as engagements, family portraits, maternity sessions, proms, graduations, quinceañeras, and more.
Not permitted:
- Wedding Photography is reserved exclusively for couples hosting their wedding at Winterthur. Wedding photos may not be taken on the grounds unless your wedding event is taking place here.
- Commercial photography that promotes products or services is not permitted. For inquiries, please see our FAQ section on Commercial Photography & Filming.
- Drone photography is strictly prohibited.
The Reservation Process
To make a reservation, please call Winterthur Information & Tours at 800.448.3883. The call center is open Tuesday–Friday, 9:00 am–4:00 pm, Saturday, 9:00 am–3:00 pm, and Sunday, 9:00 am–2:00 pm. Alternately, you may email PhotographyReservation@winterthur.org with your request and a member of our team will contact you.
To help us accommodate your request, please submit it at least three days before your desired photography date. Please note that Winterthur is closed on Mondays.
A representative will determine if the day, time, and location you desire are available. A reservation will be made, and a confirmation email will be sent to the requestor.
If you need to cancel or change your reservation for any reason, please contact Winterthur Information & Tours.
Your photography session
If your reservation is during the hours Winterthur is open to the public, please check in at the Visitor Center. If you arrive outside of those hours, please go directly to the space that has been reserved.
Winterthur’s security team may request to see your reservation during your photography session.
Please note that Winterthur is an active, working garden, and our staff may be working throughout the garden while you enjoy your visit. While we make every effort to minimize disruptions, we cannot guarantee that any area of the garden will be free from staff activity or other interruptions.
To ensure a great experience for all, we kindly ask that you follow these guidelines:
- All participants, including photographers, must have General Admission tickets or be current Winterthur Members. Please check in at the Visitor Center upon arrival. If you arrive before or after the Visitor Center’s open hours, please proceed directly to the area you have reserved.
- Group size should not exceed 10, including the photographer. We are unable to accommodate large groups or photography crews.
- Photography must take place during the time period you have reserved.
- Photography is permitted outdoors only. Indoor photography is not allowed for special occasions.
- Large-scale equipment such as light stands, reflectors, carts, wagons, and other staging gear is not permitted.
- Props and signs are not allowed.
- Wardrobe changes are not permitted on-site. Please arrive dressed in the attire you plan to wear for your photo session.
- Be considerate of others. Our gardens and estate are open to all guests, and photo sessions must not disrupt or inconvenience other visitors.
Thank you for helping us preserve the peaceful and welcoming atmosphere that makes Winterthur so special. We look forward to seeing your smiling faces around the estate!
Commercial Photography & Filming
In general, Winterthur does not permit commercial photography. However, exceptions may be made in rare cases. Please email a detailed request to: pressroom@winterthur.org. You will receive a response from us within five days.