Photo Shoots
4 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 100% of travelers
100% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$150
per adult
Asheville Photo Tours
Asheville Photo Tours
5
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Monday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Sunday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Full view
About
Award-winning Nature & Fine Art Photographers, Chris & Bonnie Allen take clients to special, often secret locations in the Blue Ridge Mountain region, including mountain vistas, waterfalls and magical forests. During the tour, we provide hands on instruction to help clients improve their photography skills and make better photos.
Tours and Tickets by Asheville Photo Tours
Photo Shoots
6+ hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
from
$280
per adult
Photo Shoots
4 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
from
$150
per adult
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
5.0
35 reviews
Excellent
34
Very good
0
Average
1
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Kent Green
6 contributions
Oct 2021
One thing that most of us amateur photographers never get is feedback from professional photographers. The feedback we do get is often from friends or family that likely have less skill than we do. I have been attending monthly online critique sessions with with Chris and Bonnie Allen, and wow, what a difference it has made in my work! I have stopped making consistent mistakes, opened new ways of seeing, and significantly improved my editing skills.
In the online Zoom calls with a few photographers, Bonnie, and Chris, the friendly group reviews about 5 photos from each photographer. The focus is on the positive attributes of each image, which is rewarding. Then there is discussion on how the image might be made even stronger or made stronger. Often Chris will take your image into Adobe Lightroom and make those edits online so you can see the improvement.
If you really want to kick start your photography, these critiques are "must do" and are very reasonably priced. What are you waiting for???
In the online Zoom calls with a few photographers, Bonnie, and Chris, the friendly group reviews about 5 photos from each photographer. The focus is on the positive attributes of each image, which is rewarding. Then there is discussion on how the image might be made even stronger or made stronger. Often Chris will take your image into Adobe Lightroom and make those edits online so you can see the improvement.
If you really want to kick start your photography, these critiques are "must do" and are very reasonably priced. What are you waiting for???
Written October 17, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Linda Davidson
3 contributions
Feb 2021
“The 1 ½ hour online Zoom critique sessions offered by Chris and Bonnie are excellent. Besides getting the needed “pats on the back” for my photos, they also offered me their years of experience as professional photographers in critiquing and even doing some online Lightroom editing to show me how to take a pretty good photograph and make it an outstanding one. But the best part? I’m getting all this for only $15 a session!” – Linda Davidson, Tyler, TX
Written February 8, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for your review Linda! We’re glad to hear that you are benefiting from the online critiques, and look forward to our next sessions together.
Written February 9, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
BethOlsson
Roswell, GA20 contributions
Oct 2021
We had a wonderful experience with Asheville Photo Tours from start to finish. We booked our private tour rather last minute and they were very accommodating! We met up with Bonnie before dawn and had no problem connecting with her and following her to the best spots. We chased the sunrise and fog for a while and then spent some time on beautiful fall vistas. She gave great advice on composition as well the the technical aspects of my camera. She was a delight to spend time with too, which made it even better. We went out again the next day and shot some more based on her tips. Loved it! I would definitely recommend this tour!
Written October 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We’re delighted that you had a good time with Bonnie and advanced your photography technique and artistry. Bonnie very much enjoyed sharing the experience with you, and we especially liked seeing some of your resulting photos.
Written October 16, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
ScribblesandSmiles
Evansville, IN35 contributions
Nov 2020
I had an excellent photography experience with Chris and Bonnie in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. They both have great patience for instruction, guiding, and explaining the technical side of photography; all helping to create an artistic image. Chris is a pro at critiquing images and offering guidance on composition, lighting, and post-processing techniques. I highly recommend their workshops to anyone interested in landscapes, waterfalls, and self-discovery through photography.
Written November 20, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Christie, we thoroughly enjoyed the time spent with you and John photographing at the many waterfalls and cascades along Big Creek! And your skill at post processing during our session the next day was impressive. We're pleased that our guidance was helpful in your photography and artistry journey!
Written November 22, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Melvin123
Pawleys Island, SC50 contributions
Aug 2019 • Family
Anyone with teenagers knows the challenge of trying to find something to do with them. I took my daughter on a photo tour with Chris and Bonnie and she loved it. We used our iPhones and learned how to take breathtaking pictures as well as have a great time visiting waterfalls in the Asheville area. As she put it “Dad, I totally upped my game (with regards to iPhone picture taking). I can’t wait to post these on Instagram.”
Chris and Bonnie are very patient and excellent teachers. They also know all the secret nooks and crannies of the Asheville area. We went to a waterfall that is a local secret not mentioned in typical area hiking and guide books.
We spend a wonderful afternoon visiting waterfalls and learning how to take both scenic and artistic quality pictures. Lots of fun. Chris and Bonnie are delightful.
We learned how to frame a picture, how to use the “rule of thirds”, how to use specialized apps, how to tell a story with a picture, what are the best camera angles and how use lighting to best advantage. They also teach simple and easy to understand tips on shutter speed, focus and exposure control features available on smart phone apps. We learned that a little knowledge can make a huge difference in the quality and impact of our everyday iPhone photos.
Chris and Bonnie are very patient and excellent teachers. They also know all the secret nooks and crannies of the Asheville area. We went to a waterfall that is a local secret not mentioned in typical area hiking and guide books.
We spend a wonderful afternoon visiting waterfalls and learning how to take both scenic and artistic quality pictures. Lots of fun. Chris and Bonnie are delightful.
We learned how to frame a picture, how to use the “rule of thirds”, how to use specialized apps, how to tell a story with a picture, what are the best camera angles and how use lighting to best advantage. They also teach simple and easy to understand tips on shutter speed, focus and exposure control features available on smart phone apps. We learned that a little knowledge can make a huge difference in the quality and impact of our everyday iPhone photos.
Written August 29, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
What a delightful time we had with you and your daughter, Melvin! You both were quick learners and very receptive to suggestions on improving your photos both artistically and technically. We look forward to seeing some of the photos on Instagram!
Written August 30, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
ElaineGNewYork
Brooklyn, NY63 contributions
Jul 2018 • Friends
Bonnie and Chris took us out for a beautiful afternoon of landscape photography and light hiking. They couldn't be nicer, and the pictures we ended up with were beautiful. The hiking was fun too, although I would enjoy a more challenging hike, my friend didn't have the right shoes with her.
I really appreciated Bonnie and Chris's local knowledge, friendliness and flexibility in helping to arrange a last minute tour. Would definitely do more on a return visit to Asheville.
I really appreciated Bonnie and Chris's local knowledge, friendliness and flexibility in helping to arrange a last minute tour. Would definitely do more on a return visit to Asheville.
Written November 27, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks so much for your review Elaine! We had a great time with you and Pamela, and were delighted to share our knowledge and passion for the Blue Ridge area with you.
Written November 27, 2018
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
2francophile
San Antonio, TX157 contributions
Apr 2024 • Couples
Delightful, instructive, personalised and inspiring experience with Chris and Bonnie! My husband and I spent 4 hours with our instructors, working individually with each of them who tailor-made instruction to our particular talents and familiarity with photography. We used our IPhones and learned how to use the features of the cameras as well as being introduced to helpful apps. We enjoyed Chris and Bonnie so much that we feel that we made new friends and hope to stay in touch.
Written April 20, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Judy V
1 contribution
Oct 2023 • Family
The experience of going to Mouse Creek Falls for our all day photo lesson was a great choice. Chris and Bonnie were clearly experienced in helping me find the right composition on the landscape scenes we came across. They were encouraging of me to find my own sense of beauty in composing a photo.
Written October 26, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We really appreciated your enthusiasm for the natural beauty of the hike and waterfalls; and of our coaching to advance your photography skills! We hope we will see you again in the future. Thanks so much for the 5-star review!
Written October 27, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jazzmin713
Winter Park, FL14 contributions
Oct 2023 • Solo
Due to some terrible traffic Chris was delayed so our tour started later than expected but that worked out fine. It gave me time to relax a bit after my drive until he arrived. And he extended our time together to ensure I had my full time with him so it was no problem at all.
Since it was just me on this tour he offered to drive and leave my car, which allowed me to enjoy the scenery as we travelled to the different locations. He asked in advance what my expectations were as well as my skill level and adjusted the tour locations to ensure I got the shots I wanted.
His level of expertise in photography techniques was invaluable. He taught me several tricks on how to get the best shot in different lighting. And now I can use my camera to its fullest potential. And I can take those waterfall shots where the water looks silky like the professionals.
I had only used my camera the automatic setting or what I thought was automatic previously. Now I have had a crash course in the key elements to a good shot. We practiced prior to going to the locations so he knew my skill level and it was an educational and fun experience.
I have so many amazing photos to remember this trip.
Thank you Chris. I only regret that i did not get a chance to meet your wife as well on this trip. Perhaps on a future one.
Since it was just me on this tour he offered to drive and leave my car, which allowed me to enjoy the scenery as we travelled to the different locations. He asked in advance what my expectations were as well as my skill level and adjusted the tour locations to ensure I got the shots I wanted.
His level of expertise in photography techniques was invaluable. He taught me several tricks on how to get the best shot in different lighting. And now I can use my camera to its fullest potential. And I can take those waterfall shots where the water looks silky like the professionals.
I had only used my camera the automatic setting or what I thought was automatic previously. Now I have had a crash course in the key elements to a good shot. We practiced prior to going to the locations so he knew my skill level and it was an educational and fun experience.
I have so many amazing photos to remember this trip.
Thank you Chris. I only regret that i did not get a chance to meet your wife as well on this trip. Perhaps on a future one.
Written October 26, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
It was a pleasure to share the beautiful places in our area and help you get some photos to remember your visit. Cameras can be difficult to figure out sometimes, so I'm glad that I was able to help you advance your skills, both technically and artistically. Next time you are in the area be sure to schedule a tour and Bonnie you should be able to meet Bonnie as well. Thanks for your detailed review!
Written October 27, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Harry
5 contributions
Jun 2023
Looking Glass Falls was outstanding. We spent a little too much time in the forest looking at grasses. Chris was just great as a guide and photographer. He let me use his tripod to shoot the falls.
Written June 27, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your honest feedback! I see how you might have preferred to spend less time at the forest location with the wavy grasses. I was probably not picking up on your level of engagement there as well as I should have been. Looking Glass is indeed one of the best, easy to access waterfalls in the area. Glad you liked it!
Written June 29, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Do you have photo tours available in December? What subjects will be photographed and the cost associated with the tour?
Written August 4, 2019
Christina, we do have tours available through December 20th. Most of our tours will focus on waterfalls, as by that time of year, there is very little foliage on the mountains. Waterfalls often have Rhododendrons growing around them and they stay green year round. We will also be offering an indoor macro photography option if you are interested in close-up photography. Please visit our website for tour details and costs. Let us know if you have further questions.
Written August 7, 2019
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