Photography opportunities in Asheville are practical and rewarding. This mountain city offers a smart mix of guided experiences that cut straight to the chase – no wasted time. The half-day tours are particularly good, giving you just enough instruction while keeping you moving to the best spots. I especially love the autumn color tours when the Blue Ridge Mountains explode in reds and golds.
For first-timers, the 2-hour hiking photo sessions are perfect – they’re focused, efficient, and get you to viewpoints most travelers miss. The full-day waterfall expeditions are worth every penny if you’re serious about landscape photography. Equipment is provided free on most tours, which is a nice touch.
Let’s look at the top photo experiences that make Asheville truly special.
Good To Know
- Custom half-day photo tours offer personalized experiences for all skill levels, with private transportation, bottled water, and snacks included.
- Full-day tours with expert instruction focus on capturing vistas and waterfalls, with participants driving their own vehicles and a picnic lunch break.
- Unique 2-hour hiking experiences allow capturing natural landscapes, with access to creative photoshoot options and a moderate fitness level required.
- Half-day autumn color photography tours provide an immersive experience for capturing autumn hues, with limited group size and extra tripods available.
- Private professional vacation photoshoots offer 45 edited high-resolution photos, flexible meeting points, and a lowest price guarantee.
Custom Half-Day Photo Tour With Photography Lessons From Asheville
The Custom Half-Day Photo Tour with Photography Lessons from Asheville offers a personalized experience for photographers of all skill levels.
With a 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides private transportation, bottled water, and snacks while incorporating photography tips and tricks.
Participants can choose to be picked up within a 40-mile radius of downtown Asheville or drive separately.
The tour operates daily from 9 AM to 9 PM, with the option to start at scenic locations in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Though not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, the private tour ensures a tailored experience for every group.
Read our full review: Custom Half-Day Photo Tour With Photography Lessons From Asheville Review
Book now: Check availability
Full-Day Tour With Instruction in Vistas & Waterfall Photography
Asheville Photo Tours, LLC offers a comprehensive Full-Day Tour with Instruction in Vistas & Waterfall Photography, catering to photographers of all skill levels. Priced at $280 per person, this small-group tour (max 6 travelers) explores the stunning landscapes around Asheville, USA.
Participants drive their own vehicles and follow the guide, meeting at a convenient location. The tour includes expert instruction in capturing breathtaking vistas and waterfalls, as well as a picnic lunch break.
With complimentary tripod use, free cancellation, and positive reviews highlighting off-the-beaten-path locations, this tour promises an immersive photography experience in Asheville’s natural beauty.
Read our full review: Full-Day Tour With Instruction in Vistas & Waterfall Photography Review
Book now: Check availability
2-Hour Hiking Experience With Carly Buntin Photography
Although a hiking experience may not be the first activity that comes to mind when planning a photography session, Carly Buntin Photography offers a unique 2-Hour Hiking Experience that allows participants to capture the stunning natural landscapes around Asheville, North Carolina.
The private tour takes place on trails in the Asheville area, with the exact trailhead location provided after booking. Participants must have a moderate fitness level, as the hike isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
However, the experience provides access to a client closet of women’s dresses and newborn-toddler clothing for creative photoshoot opportunities. With a 5-star rating from 2 reviews, this hiking experience is a unique way to explore Asheville’s natural beauty through the lens of a professional photographer.
Read our full review: 2-Hour Hiking Experience With Carly Buntin Photography Review
Book now: Check availability
Half-Day Tour With Instruction in Autumn Color Photography
For those seeking to capture the vibrant hues of autumn in Asheville, the Half-Day Tour with Instruction in Autumn Color Photography offers an immersive experience led by knowledgeable guides.
The tour, limited to 6 travelers, takes participants to various scenic locations around Asheville. Guests drive their own vehicles, following the guide, and have access to extra tripods if needed.
The tour includes bottled water, though travelers must bring their own snacks. With a moderate fitness level required, the tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
Based on a 5-star review, this photography experience is highly recommended for autumn enthusiasts.
Read our full review: Half-Day Tour With Instruction in Autumn Color Photography Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Professional Vacation Photoshoot in Asheville
Capture the essence of Asheville through a private professional vacation photoshoot. This experience includes 45 edited high-resolution photos delivered within 3-5 working days.
The photoshoot is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed. The meeting point is flexible, and the host will communicate with you beforehand to finalize details.
Pricing starts at $230 per person and includes a lowest price guarantee. With an outstanding 5.0 rating based on one “awesome” review, this private tour ensures a memorable experience capturing the beauty of Asheville.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start of the photoshoot.
Read our full review: Private Professional Vacation Photoshoot in Asheville Review
Book now: Check availability
Elk & Waterfall Photo Tour W/ Photography Lessons
Nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of Asheville, the Elk & Waterfall Photo Tour with Photography Lessons offers an unforgettable experience for photography enthusiasts.
Priced from $160 per person, this tour runs from November 4th, 2024 to March 20th, 2026, with daily availability from 9 AM to 6 PM. Participants can expect private transportation, bottled water, snacks, and meals, as well as photography lessons to hone their skills.
The tour includes pickup within a 40-mile radius of downtown Asheville and ends back at the meeting point. While not recommended for travelers with certain health conditions, most can participate, with free cancellation and rescheduling options available.
Read our full review: Elk & Waterfall Photo Tour W/ Photography Lessons Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Group Size for the Tours?
The minimum group size for the tours typically ranges from one to eight participants, allowing for an intimate and personalized experience for photographers of all skill levels. The exact size may vary depending on the specific tour operator and location.
Do the Tours Provide Equipment and Camera Rentals?
The tours typically provide camera equipment and rentals, allowing participants to capture stunning photos without the need to bring their own. This feature ensures a seamless and immersive photography experience for all skill levels.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, many photography tour providers in Asheville allow you to customize the itinerary to your preferences. This lets you focus on the subjects and locations that interest you most, ensuring a personalized and rewarding photography experience.
Are the Tours Suitable for Photographers of All Skill Levels?
The tours are suitable for photographers of all skill levels. Beginner and experienced photographers alike can find enjoyment and value in the carefully crafted itineraries, which can be customized to individual preferences and photographic interests.
Are the Tour Guides Certified Photography Instructors?
The tour guides are not certified photography instructors, but they’re knowledgeable about the best photography spots and can provide tips to help photographers of all skill levels capture great shots during the tours.
The Sum Up
Asheville offers a diverse range of photography experiences catering to all skill levels. From custom half-day tours with lessons to full-day instruction in vistas and waterfalls, hikers can capture the region’s vibrant autumn colors. Travelers can also opt for professional vacation photoshoots or an elk and waterfall tour with expert guidance. With these exceptional options, aspiring and seasoned photographers alike can enjoy Asheville’s stunning natural beauty.