easy
3–4 hours
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves gentle walking on uneven terrain
Explore vivid wildflower meadows and tranquil mountain streams on an expert-led photography tour through North Carolina’s Blue Ridge region. Perfect for macro photography lovers wanting to refine their technique in breathtaking natural settings.
Starting at $150 | Spring through Autumn
Embark on a captivating photography tour in the stunning Blue Ridge region, where you'll capture intimate nature images of vibrant wildflowers and serene mountain streams. With expert guidance, refine your skills in macro photography while exploring diverse ecosystems. This unique experience promises to enhance your artistic vision amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Person (half day) - $150 Person (full day) - $280
Half Day: 4 hours Full day: 8 hours
Get in close for intimate nature images! (Available March 15 - September 30)
The Blue Ridge region hosts many species of colorful wildflowers, ferns, trees and other beautiful botanicals. And many of these ecosystems are the most interesting around mountain streams and cascades. In this tour, we escort you to some of the best spots to refine your photography skills with an eye to closer, more intimate scenes.
Possibilities include forest preserves, open fields, and even a 5-mile round trip hike along a Smoky Mountain river (for full-day tours only). You will learn how to make closeup / macro portraits and intimate scenes that capture the mood and spirit of the plants, mountain streams and their habitat.
Start times vary depending on season, weather patterns and sunrise/sunset times. We notify participants of meeting times & locations upon registration.
We strongly suggest you bring a macro, or closeup lens, extension tubes, closeup diopter, and / or lens such as Lensbaby; and a tripod or other type of camera support.
Topics covered will include:
Bring a dedicated macro lens to capture fine flower details and stream textures.
Streams can be slippery and wet; proper boots ensure stability and comfort.
Mountain weather changes quickly—plan to avoid rain or fog impacting visibility.
Morning light creates gentle shadows that enhance flower colors and stream reflections.
The Blue Ridge Mountains have long been home to the Cherokee people, whose cultural connections to the land remain evident today.
Locally guided tours emphasize low-impact travel to protect delicate wildflower habitats and water quality in the Blue Ridge.
Essential for detailed close-up shots of flowers and insects during blooming seasons.
spring specific
Keeps feet dry and provides traction near wet streambeds.
all specific
Stabilizes the camera for sharp images in low light conditions.
all specific
Layered clothing protects against cool morning temperatures in the mountains.
spring specific