Expert-guided wildlife and waterfall photography adventures through the Blue Ridge Parkway, Great Smoky Mountains, and Pisgah National Forest. Private tours for 1-3 photographers with personalized instruction.
Departing from Asheville, North Carolina
Private tours for 1-3 photographers. Select your focus below. The more people in your group, the lower the per-person rate.
Most Popular
Encounter bears, elk, owls, and more in their natural habitats. Steve’s expertise in animal behavior ensures you’re in the right place at the right time.
Pricing Per Person
Stunning Views
Capture iconic waterfalls at DuPont State Forest (filming location of The Hunger Games), Looking Glass Falls, and stunning high-elevation landscapes at Graveyard Fields and Black Balsam.
Pricing Per Person
Your half-day tour is designed to maximize your photography opportunities while keeping you comfortable and safe.
Steve’s deep knowledge of animal behavior and local terrain ensures you’re always in the right spot.
Comfortable vehicle transport from Asheville to prime photography locations throughout WNC.
Real-time tips on composition, lighting, camera settings, and ethical wildlife approach.
Access to Steve’s personally scouted spots that most tourists and photographers never find.
Proper wildlife distance protocols, trail safety awareness, and Leave No Trace practices.
Dawn, daytime, or dusk departures based on your target subjects and optimal lighting.
Real photos taken on Steve’s guided tours throughout Western North Carolina.
Steve isn’t just a photographer. He’s a naturalist with deep expertise in animal behavior, tracking, and the rhythms of Western North Carolina’s wilderness. His tours go beyond point-and-shoot to help you understand and anticipate wildlife moments.
Steve selects locations based on season, weather, and wildlife activity to maximize your opportunities.
Famous waterfalls and filming location of The Hunger Games movies
One of the most photographed waterfalls in the Southeast
Stunning high-elevation meadows with waterfalls and wildflowers
360-degree mountain views and dramatic alpine landscapes
Cades Cove and Cataloochee Valley for elk and bear photography
America’s favorite scenic drive with countless overlooks
Pristine waterfalls, old-growth forest, and diverse wildlife
Rhododendron blooms and panoramic mountain vistas
These tours welcome all skill levels! Whether you’re shooting with a smartphone or professional gear, Steve adapts his guidance to your experience. The focus is on getting you to the right places at the right times. Your equipment and skill level determine how you capture those moments.
Bring your camera and lenses (telephoto recommended for wildlife), comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate layers, water, and snacks. Steve will provide specific recommendations based on your tour type and current conditions when you book.
Tour times are flexible and optimized for your subjects. Wildlife tours often start at dawn when animals are most active. Scenic tours may begin early for sunrise or later for golden hour. Steve will discuss the best timing based on your goals and current wildlife activity.
Tours can be rescheduled or cancelled up to 48 hours in advance for a full refund. Weather-related cancellations are always fully refunded, and Steve will work with you to find an alternative date. Safety is the priority. If conditions aren’t safe, we don’t go.
Most tours involve light to moderate walking on trails or near roadsides. Steve can customize tours for different fitness levels and mobility requirements. Just let him know your needs when booking. Some waterfall locations require short hikes with stairs or uneven terrain.
Absolutely! Whether you’re hoping to photograph elk in Cataloochee, bears along the Parkway, or a specific waterfall, Steve will plan the tour around your goals. Just note that wildlife is wild. Steve maximizes your chances but can’t guarantee specific sightings.
Book your half-day tour today and come home with images that capture the wild beauty of Western North Carolina.
Full-Day Tour Pricing
Or call directly: (828) 777-2045