Engagement Sessions and Wedding Photography at Planting Fields


Planting Fields Arboretum in Oyster Bay is one of my go-to spots for engagement sessions and wedding photos on Long Island. It’s got 400 acres of rolling lawns, old trees, and historic buildings—plenty to work with as a photographer. I’ve shot here a bunch, and it’s always a solid pick for couples who want something natural but polished. Here’s what you need to know if you’re thinking about it for your photos.


Why Planting Fields Works

The place has range. For engagement sessions, the open fields and stone paths give you clean, relaxed shots—think walking hand-in-hand or sitting by the Coe Hall steps. Wedding photos get a boost from spots like the reflecting pool or the elm-lined Main Lawn; they frame a dress or suit without much fuss. Spring’s got blooms, fall’s got color, and even winter’s bare branches look sharp against a gray sky. I shot an engagement here last October—golden leaves everywhere, couple laughing by the greenhouse. It’s easy to see why it clicks.


Permit Basics

You’ll need a permit to shoot here, and it’s pretty straightforward:

  • Outdoor Wedding Photography: $250. Covers your ceremony or posed shots.
  • Outdoor General Photography: $100. Good for engagement sessions, family pics, or anything else.
  • Camellia Greenhouse: $250 extra, but it’s tricky—10 a.m. to 4 p.m. by reservation only, closed Tuesdays, and not available November to March. It’s a rain backup, not a winter option. Email PFA@parks.ny.gov to check if it’s open, and don’t expect to move stuff or climb stairs—they’re strict about that.


Time’s capped at 1.5 hours between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Apply by mailing the form with a check (made to OPRHP-LI) and a stamped envelope for the receipt, or stop by their office at 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay. No email or online payments—they keep it old-school. Heads-up: if they’re charging parking fees, it’s $8 per car or $35 for a bus.

A couple stands in front of a beautiful brick archway entrance with white columns and potted flowers at a garden conservatory.
A couple strolls hand in hand on green grass beneath a blooming pink cherry blossom tree in springtime.
Wedding couple stands beneath soaring glass greenhouse ceiling surrounded by lush greenery and natural light.
A couple walks hand in hand on a green lawn in front of a historic stone manor house on a spring day.
Beautiful bride in lace wedding dress holds elegant bouquet surrounded by soft pink cherry blossoms on garden path.
A couple walks hand in hand on a garden path beside a sunlit greenhouse with brick details and lush greenery.
Couple embraces near historic stone archway in sunlit garden setting during romantic photoshoot.
A couple stands in the arched colonnade of a historic stone building with hanging plants and garden views.
Couple embraces while standing on green lawn in front of stone archway with climbing ivy during engagement photo session.
A couple stands lovingly in front of an elegant white door with a brick archway during a sunlit afternoon.
White wedding dress and flowing veil captured against lush green foliage and blooming white flowers in an outdoor garden setting.
A flowing white wedding veil catches the breeze near a brick building with blooming flowers and greenery.
A couple stands together on a garden path beneath a lush green archway during their wedding ceremony.
A romantic springtime scene with blooming weeping cherry blossoms cascading over a lush green lawn.

Tips for Your Shoot

  • Timing: Late afternoon—around 3 or 4 p.m.—gets you soft light, especially by the lawns or woods. Morning’s fine too if you like cooler tones.
  • Outfits: Flowy dresses or sharp jackets stand out against the greenery or stone. Bring layers if it’s chilly.
  • Spots: The Italian Garden’s good for structured shots; the trails are better for candid stuff. Greenhouse is a vibe if you snag it, but don’t bank on it in winter.
  • Prep: Boots for walking, swap to nicer shoes for photos. I’ll bring a blanket if the ground’s wet.


Planning Your Session

Planting Fields is a reliable choice—big enough for variety, close enough to Oyster Bay for a North Shore feel. Permits are a hassle, sure, but worth it for the shots you’ll get. Call (516) 922-8605 or email PFA@parks.ny.gov to sort it out. If you’re set on it, I’ve got the timing and angles down—happy to make it work for you.