Photographer Guidelines

Professional and recreational photographers are welcome at the JC Raulston Arboretum. Our primary mission is to serve those looking to immerse themselves in horticulture—whether it's a stroll to recharge the mind and soul or a walk to see which plants grow best in our area. We ask that your photography sessions do not interfere with our visitor experience.

If your session requires any of the following criteria, we ask that you rent a garden space for a more private experience:

  • Includes mini-sessions
  • Additional decorations or furniture
  • Takes longer than 30 minutes
  • Includes more than six people
  • Is for a commercial purpose
  • Takes place outside of operating hours

To set up a rental reservation, click here to submit a reservation request form or contact our rental coordinator at jcrarentals@ncsu.edu for more information.

In an effort to safeguard our collection and create a positive experience for all of our guests, please follow our guidelines for photographers below. Any photographer failing to comply with these guidelines will be asked to vacate the premises.

  • Abide by current garden visitation hours.
  • Do not stage a photograph in the plantings or trees, block pathways with photography equipment/people or move the benches or labels.
  • Do not monopolize garden spaces or paths with furniture, props or staging as we are a public garden and all guests deserve access to every space. If you would like a private area, rental reservations are available.
  • Pets, emotional support animals and therapy animals are not allowed. Service dogs are permitted.
  • No open flames, sparklers, confetti, grains, birdseed, flower petals (artificial or real), balloons, tape, glitter or sequins are allowed in gardens as they could threaten the birds, insects and other living things that make our gardens so special.
  • Remain on the designated paths and stay out of the mulched plant beds. These areas protect small plants and the roots of others.
  • Please respect the gardens, plants and other visitors at all times. Do not pick or remove any plants. The JCRA is a research garden, and our number one priority is to protect our beautiful plants.
  • Do not set up or walk on the gravel area in the Japanese Garden.
  • Supervise all children for their safety and the welfare of our plants. Please be extra careful when taking photos near any water features.
  • Do not fly unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), also referred to as drones, in or over the JCRA.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. Enjoy your time at the JC Raulston Arboretum, and please tag us on social media (@jcraulstonarboretum)!