Choose your Photo Pass!
While the park offers many great close-up photo opportunities for all visitors, some photographers may wish to take advantage of our Photo Pass. The Photo Pass gives you access to the park before public hours, plus unique photography vantage points.
By purchasing a Photo Pass, you are agreeing to our Photo Policy below.
ANNUAL PHOTO PASS FOR MEMBERS
$30
annually
- Early park entry at 8 a.m. (optional)
- Access to Photo Diamonds
- Valid for one year
- Must be a current Sylvan Heights member
SINGLE DAY PHOTO PASS FOR NON-MEMBERS
$30
per day
- Early park entry at 8 a.m. (optional)
- Access to Photo Diamonds
- Valid for one day
- Park admission fees will be added at checkout
How does a Photo Pass work?
A Photo Pass gives photographers access to additional areas in our aviaries that typically can’t be viewed from the pathways and trails. This is accomplished by unlocking “Photo Diamonds”, or ports that allow your lens to pass through the aviary fencing. A Photo Pass also includes optional early admission to the park at 8:00 a.m, one hour prior to public opening.
We ask that you kindly give us advance notice if you plan to use your PhotoPass before our normal operating hours so that we may notify park staff. A valid driver’s license is required for the use of a Photo Diamond key. Call (252) 826-3186 for more information.
Photo Policy
Sylvan Heights Bird Park encourages photography for personal and non-commercial purposes. If you share your photos on social media, feel free to tag us – we love seeing your visit!
The use of tripods is permitted throughout the park as long as they do not block pathways. For the safety of the birds, large equipment, such as lighting softboxes, umbrellas, reflectors, etc., are not permitted within any aviaries. Commercial photography and professional photo sessions (engagement shoots, portraits, etc) require a written contract prior to your visit. The sale of photos taken at Sylvan Heights to stock photography websites is not permitted. Photography for other publishing/media outlets requires a written agreement before your visit, and approval of final photos by Sylvan Heights staff. For any inquiries about photography at Sylvan Heights Bird Park, please contact katie@shwpark.com.
Photo Pass FAQs
Learn more about Photo Pass benefits and what to expect when you arrive.
HOW DO I NOTIFY THE PARK IF I WANT TO USE MY PHOTO PASS AT 8:00 A.M?
Please call our main office at (252) 826-3186 at least two days before your planned visit if you would like to use your early admission benefit. Please note that the park is closed on Mondays.
WHICH AVIARIES HAVE PHOTO DIAMONDS?
Click here to view our park map. Photo diamond locations are noted with small grey diamonds marked with a “P”.
HOW DO I GET STARTED WITH MY PHOTO PASS?
Please check in at the Visitor Center and show your Photo Pass card (members) or proof of purchase (non-members). You will be given a key in exchange for your photo ID. Your ID will be kept securely in our register until you return your key at the end of your visit.
ARE THE BIRDS OUT YEAR-ROUND?
Yes! Most of our birds can be photographed year-round. On especially cold days in winter, some birds such as macaws, cockatoos, scarlet ibis, and other tropical species may be off exhibit.