Capture a special moment with wild photography packages from your Akron Zoo!
From family reunions to wedding photos, there is a perfect package for every occasion. You can also combine packages to meet all of your photography needs.
*Photographer not included.
Scaled Back “Package”
Regular Admission
Visit the zoo for a unique photo opportunity and wildlife adventure rolled into one! Enjoy visiting our animal residents and taking photos of memories that will last a lifetime.
Available:
- During regular zoo hours
- 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April – Sept.
- 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. – March
Guidelines:
- Photographers are required to wear a photographer lanyard during their visit, which can be picked up in our reception office.
- All photographers and models must purchase tickets at regular price upon entry. To view regular ticket prices, please visit our Hours & Admission page.
- We ask that during your visit you are mindful of other guests. Please do not take photos of other guests who have not explicitly consented to having their photo taken.
- School Together Discount is available for partners of the Akron Zoo. See "Add-Ons" for details.
- All photography guests must abide by the Photo/Video policy. See below for details.
Betta Package
$125 per hour
Reserve our Lehner Family Zoo Gardens to add a beautifully landscaped backdrop to your pictures. You will have this scenic area all to yourselves for an hour.
Available:
- 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., June – Sept.
Guidelines:
- An Akron Zoo staff member will be with you during your hour to ensure your privacy and safety.
- Photographers are required to wear a photographer lanyard during their visit, which can be picked up in our reception office.
- The package does not include admission to the zoo before or after the photoshoot.
- School Together Discount is available for partners of the Akron Zoo. See "Add-Ons" for details.
- Please note that some dates may be unavailable due to zoo-wide events, scheduled rentals or zoo staff availability.
- Minimum 30-day advance notice booking required.
- All photography guests must abide by the Photo/Video policy. See below for details.
Perfect OpporTUNAty Package
Reserve an area of the zoo before or after regular operating hours for photos. Get exclusive experiences with our animals and make lasting memories!
Available:
- 9 to 10 a.m. or 5 to 6 p.m., April – Oct.
- 10 to 11 a.m. or 4 to 5 p.m., Nov. – March
Locations:
- Penguin Point and Legends of the Wild - $400
- Komodo Kingdom and Curious Creatures - $350
- Grizzly Ridge - $400
- Pride of Africa - $400
- Lehner Family Gardens - $250 (available June – Sept.)
Guidelines:
- An Akron Zoo staff member will be with you during your hour to ensure your privacy and safety.
- Photographers are required to wear a photographer lanyard during their visit, which can be picked up in our reception office.
- The package does not include admission to the zoo before or after the photoshoot.
- Please note that some dates may be unavailable due to zoo-wide events, scheduled rentals or zoo staff availability.
- Minimum 30-day advance notice booking required.
- All photography guests must abide by the Photo/Video policy. See below for details.
SoFISHticated Package
$1,250 per hour
Reserve the entire zoo for your photoshoot! Includes all animals in their habitats, access to pavilions and admission and parking for as many as 200 guests (including the photographer).
Available:
- 6 to 9 p.m., May – Sept.
Guidelines:
- The package does not include admission to the zoo before the photoshoot.
- Please note that some dates may be unavailable due to zoo-wide events, scheduled rentals or zoo staff availability.
- Minimum 30-day advance notice booking required.
- All photography guests must abide by the Photo/Video policy. See below for details.
Add-Ons
- School Together Discount: If your organization is a long-time partner of the Akron Zoo, admission costs for your party may be waived. However, costs will still apply for blocking off locations and/or animal care team costs. Reach out to your sponsorship contact for more information.
SUBMIT PHOTOGRAPHY REQUEST FORM
To start booking your photography package, complete the above Photography Request Form. Minimum 30-day advance notice booking required.
Organizational Photography Requests
Prices May Vary
If you wish to inquire about media for publication use, or if you have a commercial request whose needs are not met by any of our standard photography packages (media, vlogger, location filming, proposal, etc.), please click the button below to complete our personalized photography request form. Based on the information you provide, we will be able to build you a specifically tailored package and confirm all costs associated with your request before approval.
Please note that these requests may take several days to process, so please be sure to submit your request a minimum of 30 days prior to your anticipated photography date. Late requests may not have as many options available, or in some cases, may be denied.
SUBMIT ORGANIZATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY REQUEST FORM
Photo/Video Policy
Please note that the Akron Zoo may photograph or film visitors for educational or promotional use. As a guest on the grounds, you are granting the zoo permission for use of these videos and images.
All images and videos taken by guests, patrons and volunteers are allowed free of charge, so long as the images are used for personal and non-commercial purposes. The Akron Zoo maintains the right to approach photographers/videographers about their work. If appropriate permissions have not been granted, you may be asked to return your camera and equipment to your car before enjoying the rest of your visit.
Photos may only be taken in public areas in the zoo. The photography packages above do not include behind-the-scenes access for any photographers or models. Behind-the-scenes photography is strictly prohibited without express written consent from our media relations representative prior to your zoo visit.