We love photographers and love to see the unique visions they capture through each lens! Funds generated through the purchase of Photographer Passes and Annual Permits help maintain the grounds. 

Locust Grove

Photography/Videography Policy

At Locust Grove, we welcome the opportunity to be a picture-perfect backdrop or setting. Taking photos and video outdoors for personal, non-profit use does not require a fee. For-profit commercial photography/videography and portrait photography require fees as outlined below.  The policy and fees below are necessary to ensure that there are no conflicts with ongoing rentals and events and that the site is preserved for future generations to enjoy.

Advance notification and approval for all photography/videography is required to ensure there are no conflicts with scheduled activities.

Please call 502-897-9845 for availability or include the date you wish to use Locust Grove in the “Notes” section as you check out online.

Professional photography and videography of receptions and wedding ceremonies scheduled at Locust Grove are permitted at no additional fee.

Photography Fees

I.  Portrait Photography

Portrait photography taken by professional photographers consist of pictures using Locust Grove as a background such as graduation, family, wedding, engagement, senior or similar photos which are not part of a private event such as a wedding ceremony. Professional photographers are given the option to choose between the following:

• A Yearly Photographer’s Permit, which can be purchased for $100.

OR

• A Daily Photographer’s Pass for $20.

Yearly Photographer’s Permit and Daily Permits may be purchased through . They may also be purchased at the visitor center during hours of operation, or by calling 502-897-9845.

II. Commercial Photography / Video

Photography and video sold for commercial purposes and the use in movies, documentaries, television commercials, brochures, business cards, annual reports, advertising, retail products, websites, model portfolios, promotional projects, music videos or similar profit-making projects must be scheduled in advance and fees will be negotiated independent of the registration. Unless otherwise negotiated, Locust Grove will receive a site recognition in final products.

Coordination for all commercial photography is through Jennifer Jansen, Visitor Services Director, 502-897-9845, ext. 102 or [email protected]. Fees are based on the scope of the project.

III. Controlled Vehicle (Drone) Policy

The preservation of Locust Grove is our primary concern, but it is also a place for people to connect with history and the spirit of the people of pioneer Kentucky. For these reasons, Locust Grove prohibits the use of all drones or remote controlled vehicles in the airspace above Locust Grove. Unauthorized use of drones within or above this private land may result in the immediate escort from the property, a potential ban from entry and/or other remedies allowed by law.   

IV. Prom Photos

Prom Season falls at the beginning of Wedding Season. Locust Grove is not available for photography after 3:00 pm on a date the site has been booked for a wedding. 

Prom photography will not be allowed at any time when Locust Grove has a paid public program, such as a concert or the annual Gardeners’ Fair, or when vendors are setting up for an event. 

Please call 502-897-9845 to see if the date of your prom is available, or to schedule your group. Unscheduled prom groups will be turned away.

General Photography and Videography Rules

Advance notification and approval for all photography/videography is required to ensure there are no conflicts with scheduled activities.

Please call 502-897-9845 for availability or include the date you wish to use Locust Grove in the “Notes” section as you check out online.

•         Parking is allowed in designated parking areas only.

•         Photography is not permitted on the porch or near outbuilding doorways during hours of operation, 10 to 4:30.

•         Grounds, structures, walls, and buildings may not be damaged or altered. Do not attach anything to any site structures.

•         Furniture on the porch, house shutters and doors may not be adjusted or moved.

•         Plants may not be rearranged, cut, moved or handled in any way. Do not attach anything to trees or climb trees.

•         Obey all signs on the site, and avoid disturbing areas marked off for new plantings, wet paint, archaeologic digs etc.

•         Obey all instructions from Locust Grove staff members

•         Animals must be leashed and waste must be deposited in trash can or dumpster.

•         Regular site activities, including tours, programs, and rentals must not be interfered with.

•         The photographer/videographer is liable for all damages, expenses and loss.

•         Locust Grove reserves the right to limit access to certain areas.

•         No alcoholic beverages or smoking.

•         Professional photographers and videographers are required to carry their permit or receipt for permit at all times.