·Marjorie McNeely Conservatory and Tropical Encounters Prom Photography Policy

Due to the large number of prom visitors and their parents who want to use the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory as a back drop for their prom pictures, it has become necessary to implement the following guidelines. These guidelines allow us to provide an enjoyable experience for our visitors while protecting our valuable plant collections.

Other photography options to consider:

• There are many other outdoor locations in Como Park that provide beautiful backdrops for prom pictures, including the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory veranda and staircase, Enchanted Garden, Frog Pond and Excedra.
  
  
• A prom committee or groups of individuals can also rent the Conservatory during non-public hours (after 6:00 PM) for photo opportunities. During rentals, there is no limit on the number of couples in a photo. Call 651-487-8250 for rental rates and availability.
  
  
• Any formally dressed student during Prom Season will be charged a $5 fee to enter the Conservatory and/or Tropical Encounters.
  
  
• We suggest that parents who accompany them make a voluntary donation of $2.00 each.
  
  
• Your entire visit must be limited to 30 minutes, and you may not be in any one location longer than 15 minutes.
  
  
• Professional photographers who accompany Prom couples with the intent of creating professional quality pictures will be required to follow our “Policy for Professional Photography in the Conservatory and Tropical Encounters”. This includes obtaining the required $25.00 photography permit. Professional photographers that do not abide by this Policy, and all of the contents of that policy, will be asked to leave the building. No refunds will be given.
  
  
• Pictures are limited to only two couples (4 people) in a photo. No photos of larger groups will be accommodated. Larger groups may pose only at any of our outdoor locations. Larger groups may also pose on the Porch area of the Visitor Center when it is not being set up for a private rental.
  
  
• The number of prom couples inside the Conservatory and Tropical Encounters will be monitored by staff.
  
  
• Staff will determine the capacity. Additional couples may be prevented from entering until others have left.
  
  
• Formal videography is prohibited during public hours.
  
  
• Tripods, additional photographic equipment and props are not permitted during public hours.
  
  
• Individuals may pose only on public walkways. Planting beds, walls and railings are off limits to photographers and their subjects.
  
  
• Public walkways must be kept open and passable at all times.
  
  
• Parking is permitted in designated areas only. Limousine drivers may only pick-up and drop-off in front of the Conservatory or in front of the Visitor Center.
  
  
• No changing is permitted in our restrooms, or anywhere else in our facility.
  
  
• Any individual or group that has been found tampering with benches, signs or plants will be asked to leave the building.
  
  
• The Como Park Zoo and Conservatory maintains the right to adjust these policies for the best interests of the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory and the general public.
  
  
• No refunds will be given for individuals or groups asked to leave the conservatory.