Ft. Worth Zoo questions

[coreymcl]

I have seen several posts about people following zoo's photographers around. I would like to plan a trip to the Ft. Worth Zoo. I see there are advantages of working with the zoo's staff. Could somebody enlighting me on this process? Contact names and numbers? Also maybe we should make a group outing of this?

As always thanks for the help

[Hogleg 44]

I have gone in several times with my family, grandchildren, and my pro camera, Canon 1DmkII, but without a tripod or monopod, and have had absolutely no problem. I think a tripod is the key to trouble. They will want to charge you a pro photographers fee for that. Others can help you more in that respect. But my MkII has not raised any eyebrows.

[Jake]

I have gone to the Fort Worth Zoo with a tripod and a 300 f/2.8 and no one said a word to me.
They are very photo friendly out there.

[PeteQ]

Tripods are an issue at the Botanical/Japanese Garden in FW with regard to pro-fees, but not the zoo. Lot's of regulars out there with them. I have shot there several times with the 400/2.8 and no one has ever said a word.

[brad]

The Fort Worth Zoo does not have an official photographer on staff. As others have said, they are very photo friendly out there, though.

The Dallas Zoo is the only place I know that has an official photographer. She holds "photo safaris" about once a quarter where you get a brief class on how to shoot at the zoo, then get to follow her around as the animals are first being fed for the morning. Great opportunity, but I suggest not going in July like I did.

[CaptainTom]

The Ft. Worth zoo is very friendly. They do not however permit any sort of commercial photography on the grounds without an official zoo escort. This can be done by calling ahead and getting an appointment. There is also a fee structure if you are not part of the official media, on a specific assignment.

If someone asks you what you are doing, make sure you reply that you are just a well equipped ( I hope this doesn't offend anyone- yes I am a bit sensitive ) amateur.