Photography

Guidelines for photographers of all levels

Red golden pheasant (Chrysolophus pictus)

All Photographers

You are welcome to take photos and/or video for personal use only. 

If your photos are for noncommercial purposes you may come to Ripley as a regular visitor (admission costs will apply; please see Visit for current hours and prices) and take your photos provided all the following apply:

  1. The sale of packaged media with Ripley's logo or branding is prohibited.

  2. ​Acknowledgement of the Conservancy in the credits of any publication, with prior approval, is required. 

  3. No tripods or monopods are permitted.

  4. The party is not permitted to stop visitor traffic or block other visitors’ views for extended periods in order to take photos.

  5. The party is not permitted to disrupt visitors, staff, or birds in any way.

  6. No special assistance shall be given (e.g. security, special access etc).​

Staff members reserve the right to approach photographers on Conservancy property about their work. If photographers are not complying with the above or have not sought permission to take professional photographs of the birds or physical site, they will be asked to return their equipment to their vehicle before enjoying the rest of their visit.

Whether you are a professional or taking photos for personal use, our Aviculturists reserve the right to decide which exhibits are open or closed based on nesting, aggression or animal well-being. Thank you for your understanding!

Professional Photographer Policy

Half-Day Pass Information

The Conservancy's unique collection of beautiful birds makes an exciting place for photographers. To provide the access needed to capture the birds at their best, we offer our special Half-Day Photo Pass. These passes are available to any level of photographer and are open year-round. Photo Passes give special access that visitors do not get with general admission to the Conservancy!

Sessions are available May through November from Monday to Thursday and and December through April from Monday to Sunday. Times are from 8am-12pm & 12pm-4pm. Passes can be obtained at a rate of $100.00 per person/per half-day. $75.00 for Conservancy members. 

Half-Day Passes are available for Photographers and Videographers by appointment only. Please submit the following application and we will be in touch within 2 business days. Before submitting your application, we recommend reviewing the Photography/Videography Contract, and being prepared to fill and sign once you have received confirmation of your appointment.

If your photos are for commercial purposes, please contact the Conservancy's office. Ripley is pleased to assist photography and filming projects in conjunction with our Mission Statement. The Conservancy is also an education facility and public attraction, and our visitors are entitled to an experience with a minimum of distraction and inconvenience. In order to accommodate all parties involved, professional photographers are asked to schedule their visit in advance.


Please note: Only one photography party is booked per half-day appointment.
A maximum of three photographers are allowed per party. 

Photograph by Anthony Healy