The Kalamazoo Nature Center has many beautiful and diverse backdrops perfect for professional and amateur photographers alike. Although we encourage photography by our visitors, professional photographers that are using KNC property for business purposes are required to purchase a membership or pay admission for themselves and their clients. A professional photographer is defined as anyone who is being paid to take photographs on KNC property.

A KNC Photography Membership is $150.00 and fully tax deductible.

Purchase a Photography Membership
Red Bellied Woodpecker

Benefits of Membership

  • Free admission for one named adult photographer for one year
  • Up to eight clients may accompany the photographer during a visit

 

The following benefits are for the Photography Membership cardholder only

  • Free admission, including to special events like Maple Sugar Festival
  • Bi-monthly newsletter (Nature Center News) and KNC’s regular eNewsletter
  • 10% discount at the Trailhead Gifts & Books gift shop
  • Reduced program fees
  • Voting privileges at the annual members meeting
  • Free admission and/or discounts at over 120 nature centers nationwide See the list of participating centers here >
  • Invitations to members-only events including Member’s Night and Jingle Mingle
  • Free admission during the month of October to organizations participating in the Southwest Michigan Cultural Membership Exchange

KNC Photography Guidelines

  • Photographers are required to check in at the Welcome Station or at the Guest Services desk each visit.
  • Photographers and clients must stay on trails to avoid damaging sensitive habitat areas. Do not pick or remove any kind of plant life.
  • All pathways must remain accessible to KNC visitors, staff, and volunteers at all times.
  • A photography membership does not entitle the member exclusive use of any area in KNC grounds.
  • Drone use is prohibited.
  • Park in the visitor parking lot. Do not park along the drive or block the road in any way.
  • Outside props that may damage habitats are prohibited (including but not limited to furniture, animals, motorized vehicles, smoke bombs, paint, and balloons). Onsite props such as benches, rocks, etc. may be used, but should not be moved from their original location.
  • Appropriate clothing must be worn at all times. Changing in restrooms is permitted, but be respectful of the needs of other visitors.
  • Smoking and alcohol consumption are prohibited on KNC property.
  • The Kalamazoo Nature Center is not responsible for equipment loss or damage.
  • Photography at KNC cannot be used to imply endorsement by KNC.
  • Non-compliance to these guidelines may result in forfeiture of the annual membership fee and future photography privileges.