Photoshoot

Celebrate special milestones and occasions with a photoshoot featuring our stunning exhibits.

Enjoy access to the Aquarium one hour before we open to the public to capture your most special moments framed by majestic marine life.

Whether it’s an engagement, wedding, anniversary, maternity celebration, family reunion, graduation, or any other milestone event, a photoshoot at Monterey Bay Aquarium will enhance those forever memories.

This special experience is open for up to four guests.

Do you need more time for your photoshoot? Add 30 more minutes for an additional fee.

Please note that the Aquarium doesn’t provide a photographer for this experience.

External photographers and videographers must sign the Monterey Bay Aquarium vendor guidelines, provide a current certificate of insurance, and adhere to all Aquarium photography and guest conduct policies.

Frequently asked questions

Can I still join this experience if I am running late?

Please check in 10 minutes early for your experience.

If you’re running late you may still join the experience, but the time slot you booked won’t be extended.

Is there parking available?

We don’t have parking available. There’s street parking and parking garages located throughout Cannery Row. We recommend you arrive early to have extra time to find parking.

Can guests get a refund for these programs if they have to cancel?

These programs are non-refundable.

Are there member discounts for these programs?

We do not offer any member discounts for these offerings.

Can I bring my own photographer for this experience?

No outside photographers are allowed. You must book a photographer through the Aquarium directly.

What is the schedule for this experience?

These experiences are only available Monday through Friday before opening. There will be some blackout dates for scheduled maintenance and holidays, which will be reflected on the booking calendar.

Why can’t we book this experience on weekends or holidays?

These experiences can’t be booked on holidays or weekends due to aquarium operating hour changes and operational conflicts.

Where will this experience take place?

This experience will take place in front of one of our iconic exhibits, which could include our Jellies, Open Sea, Kelp Forest, or Monterey Bay Aquarium Habitats. We can’t promise certain locations ahead of time, due to us working with constructions and maintenance schedules.

How many people can join this private experience?

The private experience includes two people. If guests wish, they can add up to 10 guests to join for a flat fee.

Can I bring my kids under four to this experience without an additional charge?

Kids four and under are approved and won’t count towards the total.

Do my additional guests also get admission included in their cost?

Yes, your guests also have admission included to spend the rest of the day with you in the Aquarium.

What is the minimum age?

There is no minimum age to join the experience. However, guests under the age of 14, including members, must be accompanied by someone age 14 or older to enter the Aquarium.

When can I start booking this experience?

Availability to book this will start four months in advance for the pre-opening offerings and purchasing will stop two weeks out from the experience date.

What is the latest I can book this experience?

Guests can purchase this experience up to two weeks from the date of the experience.

Is daytime admission included in the cost of these packages?

Yes, admission for the day the experience takes place is included.

Where do I go to enter this experience?

Please go to the main entrance of the Aquarium, where one of our naturalists will be meeting you to start this experience.

Can I bring props or decorations for this experience?

We do not allow outside props or decorations for this experience. You will get the best backdrop possible—one of the Aquarium’s beautiful exhibits.