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Photography Permits

Nestled in the northwest corner of the city, the Humber Arboretum is one of Toronto’s hidden gems. It is an ideal location to create memorable wedding photographs for nature-loving couples, and serves as an outdoor classroom for media students at Humber College and the University of Guelph-Humber.

Photography Session Permits

The Humber Arboretum offers many options for beautiful and creative commercial photography. Discover our spring-flowering trees, our colourful annual and perennial gardens, ornamental grasses, and seasonal colours. We also have theme gardens such as the Garden of the Rising Moon and the Tranquility Garden. Other areas for photography include forest trail entrances, ponds, wooden bridges, stone paths, and unique structures.

Wedding photography, engagement photography, family photo shoots, graduation photos, or other planned photography sessions at the Humber Arboretum require a permit.

A camera sits on a rock in a public garden

Student Film and Photography Permits

The Humber Arboretum is a pleased to provide an on-campus learning space for students of Humber College and the University of Guelph-Humber who are working on outdoor film and photography projects, but in most cases students must still be approved for a permit before using the space:

  • Students DO need a permit for film or photography shoots which involve any one or more of the following:
    • the use of models or actors (which includes classmates, other students, friends, or family)
    • a crew of more than one
    • the placement of props or use of any practical effects
    • the use of any non-handheld equipment beyond a camera and tripod
  • Students do not need a permit to take casual photos or film clips of the spaces, plants, or wildlife in the Humber Arboretum (although we do encourage you to read and understand the principles of Nature First Photography)

How to Apply

Student permits are free for class assignments, but you must start the application process an absolute minimum of one week in advance (earlier is better). To begin the process, send an email with a brief description of your plans and the date you would like to shoot to arboretum@humber.ca 

Tips:

  • Student permits will only be approved for the main garden areas or meadow, and for shoots during daylight hours. 
  • Drone photography and smoke/fog effects are not permitted and will not be approved.
  • Any props or equipment which may cause damage to the grounds or stress to wildlife will not be approved, including but not limited to tents, generators, candles, or fireworks.
A student takes a photo of plants

No permit is required for casual nature photography.

 

Please note: With the development of the Humber Arboretum Strategic Plan 2019-2024, we are reviewing our goals and policies regarding the use of the grounds and the Centre for Urban Ecology. As such, the booking of external building rentals, wedding ceremonies, and related events are on hold until further notice.