Formal Photography

The zoo’s unique gardens, exhibits, and features make an ideal setting for photographs as a wonderful way to remember your special day.

Location permits are required when utilizing the zoo’s unique assets as a backdrop for formal posed photography. This includes wedding, prom, graduation, professional family photos or similar events.  

As the zoo is a non-profit, self-supporting institution we charge a permit fee of $125.00 per session in addition to any parking fees. Please consider your payment a tax-deductible donation to help keep Lincoln Park Zoo open and free 365 days a year.

Those celebrating wedding ceremonies, receptions, or other special occasions held at Lincoln Park Zoo are more than welcome to take photographs or videos during their rental time at no additional fee.

The foregoing authorization is subject to the following conditions

1. All payments due hereunder shall be made prior to the beginning of the shoot. All payments shall be by credit card, certified or cashier’s check or money order (no personal checks will be accepted) and shall be made payable to: “Lincoln Park Zoo.”  Should the photo shoot take place on a weekend, the signed authorization form and payment must be made by the Friday before.
2. Photography taking place outside of regular zoo hours (9 a.m. – 5 p.m.) may incur additional fees.
3. The shoot shall be suspended or cancelled in the event that, in the sole discretion of the zoo, such shoot is damaging, destroying or injuring any plants, animals or property at the zoo, or is likely to do so, interfering with the public’s use and enjoyment of the zoo.
4. The Authorized Party shall not bring any plants, animals, or balloons onto the property of the zoo.

Authorization Document
 

Click here to download the Photo and Film Authorization Form

additional information

For additional information and to purchase a permit, please contact