Join us June 1-5, 2024, for a unique opportunity in the Great Smoky Mountains! Our goal for this workshop will be to photograph the famous synchronous firefly display that happens only once a year and only for about two weeks. Access to Elkmont, the area of the park famous for viewing synchronous fireflies, is limited this time of year, but if you come with me… you’re in! For more info on the fireflies and the events surrounding this unique natural phenomenon, go HERE.
To predict exactly when the peak activity of the synchronous fireflies is impossible. We set our dates based on our best guess and experience photographing them over the past six years. If our timing is off… don’t worry! Elkmont is not the only show in town! We know some other spots, plus there will be plenty of other amazing displays from other species of fireflies to photograph.
Besides photographing fireflies, on days 2, 3, 4, and 5, we will visit some of the park’s most scenic locations for sunrise. We will also spend plenty of time in the classroom learning how to edit our images to create compelling scenes full of fireflies! This workshop includes two instructors and is limited to eight attendees.
Basic Schedule
Day 1: Afternoon meet and greet that includes a tutorial on post-processing firefly images, followed by dinner and then an evening field session photographing fireflies.
Day 2: Sunrise field session. Break. Meet in the classroom after lunch for editing and image reviews. Break for dinner. Evening field session.
Day 3: Sunrise field session. Break. Meet in the classroom after lunch for editing and image reviews. Break for dinner. Evening field session.
Day 4: Sunrise field session. Break. Meet in the classroom after lunch for editing and image reviews. Break for dinner. Evening field session.
Day 5: Sunrise field session. Say our goodbyes.
What to Bring
As far as camera equipment goes, a Digital SLR or mirrorless camera is your best option. My favorite lenses are my 14-35, 24-105, and 100-400. I bring two cameras to maximize the number of firefly images I’m able to capture each evening. You will also need a laptop with Adobe Photoshop installed. Photoshop is necessary for helping you to make images worthy of the fireflies’ display… don’t worry, we’ll show you how.
Photo Equipment:
- DSLR or mirrorless camera
- Wide-angle and telephoto lenses or an all-purpose zoom
- A sturdy tripod and head
- Circular polarizing and neutral density filters
- Intervalometer (recommended)
- Camera backpack
- Waterproof covering for gear
- Laptop with Adobe Photoshop installed
Other Gear:
The most recommended piece of gear is a pair of sturdy shoes. Many of our locations will be uneven and rocky, so hiking shoes are very helpful. We will also be on our feet for long periods of time during our firefly field trips. In addition to being on our feet, we will likely have to walk quite a ways to reach some of our locations… nothing too strenuous, we’re not climbing any mountains, but we may be walking up to a mile or two round trip. I also recommend layering your clothing. The temps we will be working in will change, starting off cool in the mornings and warming up a lot throughout the day.
- Insect and tick-repellant
- Sunscreen
- Rain gear
- Umbrella
- Headlamp with red beam
- Water bottle
- Water shoes or sandals for creekin’.
- Camp chair for firefly viewing (if you want to carry it).
Price: $2195
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Included in the cost are two instructors, eight field trips, classroom space, dinner the first night (sandwiches, salads, fruit, etc.), and snacks throughout.
A $300 non-refundable deposit is due at the time of booking to hold your spot, the full payment is due by April 1, 2024.
Accommodations: Attendees are responsible for their own accommodations. Our classroom space is in Townsend, TN so we highly recommend staying there. Townsend also keeps us close to most of our locations, staying there will keep your drive time down before and after long days. The Best Western Cades Cove Inn was recommended to us by past attendees and is across the street from our meeting space. We also have a campsite available for an additional fee – contact us for more info.
Transportation: Attendees are responsible for their own transportation though we will carpool as much as possible.
Cancelations: Cancelations made 60 days in advance will receive a full refund for any amount paid over the non-refundable deposit. Cancelations less than 60 days before the start of the workshop will receive no refund. If a canceled spot is able to be filled before the start date of the workshop a full refund will be given, including the deposit.
Have questions about this workshop? Contact us HERE.