Photography

Red golden pheasant (Chrysolophus pictus)

Home to birds from around the globe, our flock offers a truly unique opportunity to photograph some of the world’s most beautiful and rare waterfowl.

With more than 100 species—including ducks, geese, swans, pheasants, and more—and over 200 pristine acres, there is endless inspiration waiting to be discovered through the lens.

Whether you visit in spring as wildflowers bloom or in winter when the birds display their most vibrant plumage, our grounds offer exciting opportunities for photographers and artists of all kinds. We invite you to explore, create, and enjoy our flock.

Photography at the Conservancy

Black swan | Photo by Ilya Raskin

Photography Policy

General visitors are welcome to take photos and/or video for personal use only with a cellphone or handheld digital camera only.

If you wish to take photos with a professional camera, large lens, tripod and other similar equipment you must either book a Private Photography Session -OR- hold a valid Member Photo Pass

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.

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!

For more information, you can view our General Photography Policy

Want a chance at your photos being featured in the 2027 Ripley Calendar?

Check out our Photo Contest!

Private Photography Session

What is it?

A Private Photography Session is a half-day session that allows you access to the Conservancy when we are normally closed to the public. You may bring cameras, tripods or other equipment to these sessions.

Who can come?

These sessions are available to photographers or videographers of any age and skill level!

A maximum of three photographers are allowed per party

When can I come?

Each session must be booked in advance. They are available May through November from Monday to Thursday and December through April from Monday to Sunday.

Time slots are from 8am-12pm and 12pm-4pm.

What is the cost?

Sessions can be obtained for a rate of $100 per person/per half-day

Please note: Only one photography party is booked per half-day appointment.

Schedule a pass

Please review the Photography/Videography Contract and prepare to fill and sign once you have received confirmation of your appointment.

Silver teal | Photo by Todd Dewald

Ripley is pleased to assist photography and filming projects that align with our mission statement. Please call the office at 860-567-2062 for any inquires.

What is it?

A Membership Photo Pass is an add on to any membership level that allows access to take pictures with a camera larger than a cellphone during normal visitation hours.

This pass is included with Avian Advocate and Conservation Ally membership levels.

Add-on Membership Photo Pass

What are the benefits?

-Bringing cameras during normal visitation hours

-Visiting the Conservancy 1 hour early (9am-10am) on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the normal visitation months. During this hour you may set up tripods and other equipment as well.

-Getting invitations to exclusive quarterly Photo Pass Days which offer access to take photos during a scheduled AM or PM session when the Conservancy is normally closed for admission

Interested in becoming a Member Photo Pass Holder? Purchase yours here!

If you wish to take photos for a one-time session, you can book a Private Photography Session here

Upcoming Member Photo Pass Days

Get your Member Photo Pass!

Saturday, February 28th
3:00PM-6:00PM

Register

What is the cost?

A Member Photo Pass is $30 in addition to the cost of your membership level.

Members will be required to list photo pass holder names at the time of purchase. One (1) for Individual and Two (2) for all other membership levels.

Saturday, April 18th
7:00AM-10:00AM