Oak Glen Preserve » Photography Policy

CAPTURING MEMORIES AT OAK GLEN PRESERVE

Oak Glen Preserve and Southern California Montane Botanic Garden is a beautiful, natural landscape that attracts many photographers to the area. Our priority focuses on protecting sensitive habitats that support a wide range of plants and animals, and providing an enjoyable, safe place for our visitors to connect with nature. In order to accomplish this, we ask that all photographers observe these photography policies while visiting the preserve. Looking for a location for commercial photography (marketing materials, magazine/print, other)? Call our Executive Headquarters at (909) 797-8507 to learn more.

GENERAL PHOTOGRAPHY

 

ACCEPTABLE USE

Simple, snapshot photography and wildlife photography using a mobile device or point-and-shoot camera are permitted anywhere on the preserve.

Portrait photography and other related photo shoots (e.g. family portraits, engagement portraits, holiday portraits, the use of props, clothing changes, etc.) need to follow our guidelines listed below under APPROVED PHOTO SHOOT AREAS.

Wedding photography requires prior approval from the Oak Glen Preserve. Contact us at oakglenpreserve@wildlandsconservancy.org.

GUIDELINES

  • Keep out of closed areas (apple orchards, restoration areas, staff-only areas).

  • Stay on designated trails.

  • Do not block public access to preserve trails and features including bridges and the floating dock.

  • Do not use glitter, balloons, excessive props, and other decorative items.

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APPROVED PHOTO SHOOT AREAS

Photographers shooting portraits, family holiday photographs, or other photo shoots are welcome to use the Preserve’s Blue Sky Park, Children’s Forest, Oak Knoll Park Picnic Area, and Orchard Trail for their photography backdrops.  These approved areas are green in the interactive web map below.  

Additional commercial uses of the property outside of the policies below will require a Special Commercial Photography Use Permit. Contact our headquarters at 909-797-8507 for more information. 

Oak Glen Photography Map

 

ACCEPTABLE USE

Approved photo shoot times

  • Photo shoots are permitted between 8:00 am and 4:15 pm (Nov. - March) or 5:15 pm (April - Oct.). All photo shoots must end 15 minutes prior to preserve closing hours.

Acceptable Equipment Use

  • Handheld equipment (camera, reflectors, diffusers)

  • Tripod if photographer is in the photograph

Props and Staging Shots

  • Handheld props, blankets, and small chairs/stools are permitted

Keep it Tidy

  • All equipment, props, clothing needs to be kept with your party or in your vehicle. Please do not leave them lying around the preserve unattended.

PROHIBITIONS

  • Use of balloons, hanging decorations, glitter, tinsel, confetti, sequins and other like items are prohibited. These items have adverse impacts on plants and animals.

  • Use of any pyrotechnic device, including smoke bombs, glitter bombs, fireworks, and related items commonly used for gender-reveal events. The 2020 El Dorado Fire that burned most of the Yucaipa Ridge and portions of the preserve was the result of one of these devices.

  • Use of large props including, but not limited to, sofas, arm chairs, plastic Christmas Trees, etc.

  • Use of excessive photography equipment, including umbrella flash apparatus or other equipment on tripods.