FAQ - Portraits Around Tryon Palace in New Bern, NC

If you’re planning engagement photos, bridal portraits, family pictures, prom photos, maternity portraits, or senior sessions in historic downtown New Bern, one of the most popular locations is Tryon Palace! With its colonial architecture, brick walkways, iron gates, blooming gardens, and waterfront charm nearby, it’s easy to see why we love this iconic New Bern backdrop. 

​This blog post highlights the most common questions I get about portrait photography sessions around Tryon Palace.

Can You Take Professional Portraits at Tryon Palace?
Yes — professional portrait sessions are allowed in certain areas of Tryon Palace, but there are important rules and permit requirements depending on where you plan to shoot.
Photography sessions featuring a subject and a professional photographer — including bridal portraits, engagement sessions, prom photos, family portraits, and senior photography — require scheduling and approval when taking place inside ticketed areas of the palace grounds. These sessions must be coordinated through the Tryon Palace Public Affairs staff and require a photography permit.


Do You Need a Permit for Photography at Tryon Palace?
Yes — if your session takes place in ticketed areas of Tryon Palace with a professional photographer, you must obtain a permit.
Approved clients receive a one-time permit that includes:

• The approved session date
• Session time
• Required signatures from Tryon Palace staff

Photography sessions conducted without authorization may be asked to leave the property.


How Much Does a Tryon Palace Photography Permit Cost?
Current permit pricing is listed as:

• Garden Portrait Permit: $250
• Palace Portrait Permit: $350

Pricing and availability may change over time, so always confirm directly with Tryon Palace before booking your session.


When Are Professional Photography Sessions Allowed?
According to current photography policies, permitted portrait sessions inside ticketed Tryon Palace areas are typically scheduled on:

• Tuesdays
• Thursdays

Available session windows include:

• Morning: 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
• Afternoon: 3:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Additional times may occasionally be available depending on staff availability.


Are Photography Sessions Currently Available?
At the time of this writing, portrait photography sessions in permitted areas are temporarily on hold until further notice.
Because policies and availability can change, photographers and clients should contact Tryon Palace directly for the latest updates before planning a session.


Who Do You Contact About Photography Permits?
For information about obtaining a One-Time Photography Permit for Tryon Palace, contact:

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: (252) 639-3511
  
  

Is There a Free Option for Portrait Photography Around Tryon Palace?

Yes! One of the best-kept secrets for portraits in New Bern is that you can often use the beautifully maintained gardens and historic scenery outside the main gates of Tryon Palace at no charge!
These public-facing garden areas provide stunning backdrops with:

• Seasonal flowers and landscaping
• Historic architecture
• Brick pathways
• Elegant fencing and gates
• Charming colonial-style scenery

These outdoor areas are generally available during the site’s normal public hours, though closing times change seasonally. 

For many couples and families, the exterior gardens provide all the beauty of historic New Bern without the added permit cost.


Why Is Tryon Palace One of the Best Portrait Locations in New Bern?
Few locations in Eastern North Carolina offer the same blend of history, elegance, gardens, and walkable scenery as Tryon Palace.
Whether you’re planning:

• Engagement photos
• Bridal portraits
• Wedding day first looks
• Family photography
• Maternity sessions
• Senior portraits
• Prom photography

…the areas around Tryon Palace offer timeless New Bern character that photographs beautifully year-round.

If you’re searching for portrait locations in New Bern, NC, the gardens and historic surroundings of Tryon Palace remain one of the top choices for both locals and destination visitors alike!