Longwood Gardens, located in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, is a premier destination for couples seeking a picturesque setting for engagement and portrait photography. With its expansive 1,077 acres of meticulously maintained gardens, woodlands, and meadows, it offers a diverse array of stunning backdrops. However, recent changes to the garden's photography policies necessitate careful planning to ensure a seamless experience.
Italian Water Garden – Renowned for its classical design, this garden showcases symmetrical pools, fountains, and statues, offering a sophisticated ambiance for portraits.
Main Fountain Garden – This iconic area features European-inspired architecture, stonework, and captivating water displays, providing a timeless and elegant setting for photographs.
Meadow Garden – For those desiring a more natural aesthetic, the Meadow Garden's expansive fields, wildflowers, and native grasses create a serene backdrop that changes beautifully with the seasons.
Topiary Garden – Featuring meticulously sculpted shrubs and trees in whimsical shapes, this garden adds a unique and playful touch to any photo session.
Chimes Tower & Waterfall – This historic stone tower, accompanied by a picturesque waterfall, offers a romantic and enchanting setting for couples.
In response to the increasing popularity of photo sessions and to ensure an enjoyable experience for all visitors, Longwood Gardens has implemented new photography policies:
Starting March 1, 2025 – A new permit system will be enforced for all special occasion and contracted photography sessions:
Permit Requirement – Sessions must be scheduled in advance, and a photography permit must be obtained.
Fees – Permit fees begin at $250 and vary based on the number of participants. The permit fee covers the photographer's admission only; additional guests must purchase separate admission tickets.
Session Guidelines – Photography is restricted to outdoor gardens. All sessions will be accompanied by a Longwood staff member.
Prohibited Items – Large-scale equipment, props, signs, and wardrobe changes are not allowed. Tripods and monopods may be used outdoors but are prohibited indoors.
To ensure a successful photography session at Longwood Gardens:
Advance Booking – Schedule your session at least four weeks in advance to secure the necessary permits and preferred time slots.
Seasonal Considerations – Each season offers unique scenery—from spring blooms to autumn foliage. Choose a time that best aligns with your aesthetic preferences.
Adherence to Guidelines – Familiarize yourself with and follow all updated policies to ensure a smooth experience and avoid potential disruptions.
For optimal lighting and minimal crowds during a portrait session at Longwood Gardens, consider the following recommendations:
Time of Day:
Morning Sessions: Scheduling your session at 10:00 am allows you to avoid the peak visitor periods that typically occur later in the day.
Afternoon Sessions: The 4:00 pm slot offers warmer, golden tones ideal for photography. While there may be more visitors during this time compared to the morning, it still precedes the late afternoon influx.
Days of the Week:
Weekdays: Opting for a weekday session, particularly from Wednesday to Friday, generally results in fewer visitors compared to weekends, providing a more relaxed environment for photography.
Seasonal Considerations:
Spring Blooms (March 30–May 5): This season showcases vibrant tulips, cherry blossoms, and magnolias, offering a colorful backdrop for portraits. Early May tends to have more blooms, but also more visitors.
Summer Festival (May 9–September 29): Featuring lush greenery and fountain displays, summer sessions benefit from extended daylight hours. Morning sessions are advisable to avoid midday heat and crowds.
Fall Chrysanthemum Festival (September 30–November 12): Autumn brings rich foliage and unique floral displays. Early October sessions capture the onset of fall colors with moderate visitor traffic.
Winter Wonder (January 20–March 24): The gardens transform into a serene landscape with subtle beauty. Weekday sessions during this period are particularly peaceful.
Hours of work:
Longwood Gardens' operating hours vary throughout the year. As of March 31, 2025, the Gardens are open Wednesday through Monday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, and are closed on Tuesdays, except for April 15.
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 10:00 am–6:00 pm
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 10:00 am–9:00 pm
Tuesdays: Closed, except for April 22
Please note that these hours are subject to change due to special events or seasonal adjustments. It's advisable to check the official Longwood Gardens website or contact them directly before planning your visit to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.
By carefully selecting the timing of your session and considering seasonal variations, you can achieve beautiful portraits with favorable lighting and a tranquil atmosphere at Longwood Gardens. Contact Iryna Shostak to book your portrait session at Longwood Gardens!
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