Home Photo & Video Guidelines

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Photo & Video Guidelines

We are delighted you are considering using Cantigny Park as the backdrop for your posed or portrait photography/video.

General Guidelines

We require all posed or portrait photographers to purchase a permit for their session(s), which is non-refundable and must be visible at all times. The permit does not include access to any buildings for the purpose of photography. If you need a Hospitality Room, please call 630.668.5161 for details.

Commercial photo, video and film shoots are permitted on the grounds, but must be arranged at least one week in advance of the shoot. Please contact Visitor Services for policies and fees at 630.668.5161.

Please be courteous to other guests who are enjoying the park. Some special events draw large crowds, so we recommend visiting the event calendar. Plan accordingly and be flexible. Also note: Certain areas of the park may be unavailable due to Project New Leaf construction. McCormick House and the grounds around it are currently closed.

To ensure a positive experience for you while maintaining a pleasant experience for our many visitors, please be aware of the following rules.

Photo Restrictions

Cantigny reserves the right to refuse admittance for photography/videography and/or change its photo policy without advance notice.
Do not block the access to building entrances, pathways, museums or garden areas.
Do not disturb or remove plants, plant labels, containers or park signage.
Do not enter flowerbeds, plant displays or mulched areas. Remain on the pathways and grassy turf at all times.
Family-appropriate clothing is required for photo shoots. Revealing or provocative attire is strictly prohibited.
No alcoholic beverages.
No animals or pets.
No drones.

Booked Bridal Parties

If you have booked your reception at Le Jardin or Red Oak Room or your ceremony at one of our ceremony sites, you are not required to purchase a permit for your photos.

Brides not hosting their ceremony or reception at Cantigny are still required to purchase a photo permit.

Military Brides/Grooms

Active duty military brides/grooms may take pictures at no charge and receive complimentary parking for their car only. Other cars in the party are subject to fee. Proper identification is required. Thank you for your service.

Fees

Daily Fees

Standard (1–7 people): $35 per day
Large Group (8+ people): $100 per day

Annual Photo/Video Fees

Standard: $600
Large Group: $1200

(valid for 1 year from purchase)

Permits are available for purchase at the Parking Booth or the Cantigny Shop in the Visitors Center. We accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, cash or checks (made out to Cantigny.)

 

Parking

Regular parking fees will apply for each vehicle within the party. Vehicles may load and unload passengers in front of the main parking lot. After the whole party has been dropped off, the vehicles must park in the main parking lot.

Cantigny reserves the right to limit groups arriving within one hour of closing, which is at sunset.

Cantigny and Honor Club members will receive $5 or $10 off commercial vehicle fees based on the fee schedule for the day. ID & membership cards are required at time of purchase.

All Parking Fees
SeasonDaysFee
CarsDaily$5
CarsSaturdays and Sundays,
June-September,
Labor Day Monday		$10
Commercial VehiclesDaily$20 for Limousines
$40 for Mini Buses & Trolleys
$80 for Large Buses
Friendly Reminders

Upon Arrival

  • To avoid congestion inside the Visitors Center, please meet and collect your party outside of the building. Please do not congregate inside the building.

Common Meeting Areas

  • Lion of Cantigny Statue (In front of Visitors Center)
  • A designated car in the parking lot
  • Meet at photo shoot location

We strongly advise you plan a pre-visit to scout locations before your shoot. Parking fees apply.

Photo Locations

  • Gold Pond Garden
  • Tank Park
  • East Lawn
  • Front of McCormick House
  • McCormick House Staircase
  • Rose Garden

Please Note

  • There may be times when we must restrict access to some photo locations. Please be flexible.
  • Cantigny reserves the right to refuse admittance for photography/videography and/or change its photo policy without advance notice.
  • Access to photo locations may be restricted at Cantigny’s discretion.
  • Cantigny reserves the right to limit groups arriving within one hour of closing, which is at sunset.
  • Thank you for choosing Cantigny Park for your portraits. Your purchase helps support the park and its mission.