Plan Your Visit

Photo Permit Information

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. Parking fees apply.

All 6-month permit holders will get free parking on photo shoot days by presenting the permit at the parking booth. Small group 6-month permit purchasers receive 5 free parking passes for your clients. Large group 6-month permit purchasers will receive 10 free parking passes. 6-month permits must be purchased online a minimum of 10 business days prior to your 1^st visit to receive parking passes in advance. Please email cantigny@cantigny.org with any questions related to parking passes.

General Guidelines

Individual photographers are welcome to photograph the gardens at Cantigny Park for their personal use and enjoyment. No commercial use is allowed, and no compensation may be received for images taken at Cantigny.

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 Guest Services for policies and fees at 630.668.5161.

Photo permits will be unavailable after 4 pm in December, and must be purchased in person for all December dates. 

Photo Session Guidelines

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.

Please be courteous to the Gardens and stay on pathways and turf (grass).

Please meet and collect your party outdoors. Please do not congregate inside buildings. We strongly advise you plan a pre-visit to scout locations before your shoot.

• Cantigny reserves the right to refuse admittance for photography/videography and/or change its photo policy without advance notice.
• There may be times when we must restrict access to some photo locations. Please be flexible.
• Cantigny reserves the right to limit groups arriving within one hour of closing.
• Do not block the access to building entrances, pathways, museums or garden areas.
• Do not disturb or remove plants, plant labels, containers, benches, 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 confetti, streamers, or flower petals.
• No alcoholic beverages.
• No animals or pets. (Cantigny’s Dog Policy)
• No drones.

Wedding Photography

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

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.