Photo tours are half-day or full-day, hands on photography excursions led by Bonnie or Chris Allen. You will visit the best spots for stunning photography depending on weather and seasonal conditions. Your guides provide individualized and group instruction based on skill level and interests. You drive your own car and meet with your guide(s) at a predetermined location. We notify tour participants of meeting location in the week prior to your tour date.

Tours are intended for photographers of all levels from beginner to advanced. If you want to explore the beauty of the Asheville and Blue Ridge area to create more exciting images, these tours are for you. Participants should be in reasonable physical condition and able to handle short (under one mile) hikes with your camera gear. Please no children or pets. Adolescents who have a camera and a strong interest in photography are welcome as a registered participant.

We choose locations where you can spend most of the time practicing your photography. Most of our stops will be along the roadside. In some cases, a short hike of less than a mile may be required to get to the best spot. We will be in wilderness areas, so it is important to dress for maximum comfort and safety. We suggest sturdy shoes or hiking boots, long pants, layers and rain gear to cover changing weather conditions. Be sure to bring adequate water and snacks for your own comfort.

Depending on the type of tour you have chosen, topics may include any of the following. If you don’t see your area of interest in this list and want to be sure it’s covered, just give us a call or send an email.

• Compose stronger images
• How to lead the viewer’s eye
• Long exposure to convey a sense of movement
• Creating simple images with more impact
• How to eliminate clutter & avoid distractions
• How to choose and frame your subject
• Using aperture for sharp or moody images
• Using diffusers & reflectors
• Capturing personality & gesture
• Create pleasing foregrounds
• Use light to advantage
• Get the best focus
• Leverage light, color & shapes
• See more creatively
• Identify the decisive moment
• Tell a story
• Go beyond the ordinary
• Basic camera settings, including aperture, shutter speed, ISO, histogram & focus
• And more…

Cancellations made prior to one week before the event’s start time will be issued a full refund.

Those made prior to 24 hours before the event’s start time may choose between rescheduling to a different day or receiving a 50% refund.

Customers needing to cancel with less than 24 hours notice may be responsible for the full price of the tour, but are encouraged to call Bonnie in case of an emergency. Phone: 828.352.1115

We want to help you have more fun and make better photos regardless of the sophistication of your camera gear. Bring what you have along with your manual (if you still have it). We will help you learn how to use your camera gear, and make more impactful photos.

Of course, your results can be enhanced if you have gear that allows more control over camera settings such as aperture, exposure and focusing. If you have them, we strongly suggest polarizing filters and a sturdy tripod.

If you have any questions about your gear, please contact us. We are always happy to help you plan for the best possible experience on our tours.