yosemite photo tours

For More Information or to Book Your Tour with a Live Person call 559-642-4400

Small Group & Private Scenic Tours of Yosemite National Park

• Tours Overview
• Yosemite Full Day Tour
• Full Moon at Sentinel Dome
• Horsetail Fall Hike & Tour
• Private & Hiking Tours
• Yosemite Group Tours
• Preparing for your Tour
• Cancellation Policy
• About Our Company
• Meet Our Guides
• About Our Vehicles
• Junior Rangers
• Pickup Locations
• Meal Options
• Parking in Yosemite
• Map to Yosemite
• Things to Do

Yosemite Photography Tours

• Groups Limited to 8 people and under
• Lunch included. View menu options .
• Discount for booking two or more photo tour days
• Bring your cell phone, point and shoot, or SLR camera*
• You may bring one tripod and/or monopod
• All tour itineraries and/or timing are subject to change due to conditions

*Guide cannot help with the operation of your camera, so please bring a device you are familiar with.

Saturday: Iconic Yosemite Valley Views – $270 per person

2019 dates: may 18, june 8, sept 7, oct 5.

Photos of iconic Yosemite Valley views. Depending on weather and time of year these are some of the places you will photograph: Tunnel View, Bridalveil Fall and Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, Merced River, Cathedral Rocks, Sentinel Rock, and Half Dome. There will be short easy walks on this tour. Call (559) 642-4400 to book this tour.

Bass Lake Pickup: 6:40-6:50 am  – Return: 4:20-4:30 pm Oakhurst Pickup:  7:00-7:10 am – Return: 4:00-4:10 pm Fish Camp Pickup:  7:20-7:35 am – Return: 3:30-3:45 pm

Sunday: Olmstead Point, Tuolomne Meadow, & Tenaya Lake – $310 per person

2019 dates: may 19, june 9, sept 8, oct 6.

Photos of and from the high country including Olmsted Point, Half Dome, Clouds Rest, Tenaya Lake, Tuolumne Meadow. Itinerary could change due to season, weather and/or timing. There  will be longer easy walks on this tour. Call (559) 642-4400 to book this tour.

Bass Lake Pickup: 6:40-6:50 am  – Return: 6:20-6:30 pm Oakhurst Pickup:  7:00-7:10 am – Return: 6:00-6:10 pm Fish Camp Pickup: 7:20-7:35 am – Return: 5:30-5:45 pm

Monday: Glacier Point & Mariposa Grove (seasonal) – $270 per person

2019 dates: may 20, june 10, sept 9, oct 7.

Depending on season and weather some of the highlights you will photograph will be Glacier Point, Archaeological Exhibit, Overhang Rock, views of Half Dome, Vernal and Nevada Falls, Mt Lyell, North Dome, Merced River, Yosemite Valley and Yosemite Falls, the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias including the Bachelor and three Graces, Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree. This photo tour will require easy to slightly moderate hiking of over 2 miles. Call (559) 642-4400 to book this tour.

In each itinerary you will get stunning photographs of Yosemite National Park!

*** Cancellation Policy *** Cancellation within 48 hours of tour – Charged full price Cancellation prior to 48 hours of tour – Charged $5 per person

Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil Falls, Mono & Mirror Lakes and more

GRAND TETON

Explore with us one of the most amazing National Parks in North America.

Welcome to the home of the Granite Giants; where water flows freely and the flowers grow wild. Yosemite is a place incomparable to others, with meadows decorating the valley, hundreds of lakes, waterfalls as tall a 200 story building and tree’s that are the size of rockets. Even some European countries could fit inside this park, that’s just how big this place really is. With over 800 miles of trails; we have tailor-made an experience to best showcase Yosemite to the photographic eye. But no matter what path you take or which hike you embark on, there is aways an exquisite view to be captured.

Photographing Yosemite is an art of controlling light and capturing it in all its glory. Get your camera and tripod ready because you will come back with some amazing photos. You will be guided to premier locations as we chase the light, seek out natural beauty, and go where the weather goes.

This adventure is designed not only to guide you to the most photogenic locations carefully planned for the best light but to aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you not only go home with images to be proud of but use your new found skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general. Apart from the technical aspect of learning your camera settings and capabilities, you will learn how to turn an ordinary image into an extraordinary image by using your own creativity.

In addition, you will become knowledgeable on how to survey the landscape, and utilize and approach your environment. Our time together will include individual and group discussions, inspiring ideas, and great fun. We cannot think of a better location to express your creativity than the stunning beauty of Yosemite!

A quote from John Muir ~

“Yosemite Park is a place of rest, a refuge from the roar and dust and weary, nervous, wasting work of the lowlands, in which one gains the advantages of both solitude and society. Nowhere will you find more company of a soothing peace-be-still kind. Your animal fellow beings, so seldom regarded in civilization, and every rock-brow and mountain, stream, and lake, and every plant soon come to be regarded as brothers; even one learns to like the storms and clouds and tireless winds. This one noble park is big enough and rich enough for a whole life of study and aesthetic enjoyment. It is good for everybody, no matter how benumbed with care, encrusted with a mail of business habits like a tree with bark. None can escape its charms. Its natural beauty cleans and warms like a fire, and you will be willing to stay forever in one place like a tree.”

Experience | Difficulty

• Beginner, amateur, enthusiast and semi-pro photographers
• DSLR, mirrorless, compact or iPhone cameras
• Busy schedule
• Travel by car or minibus
• Considerable elevation changes and lots of walking and hiking
• (non-photographers also welcome)

Weather | Sun

April – Temps 75/44 F  24/6 C  Sunrise 6:22 | Sunset 7:34 (19:34)

• Travel, landscape, nature and wildlife photography
• Focus on “long exposure” photography
• Professional photographer | guide
• Photo walks, hikes & discussions
• Small group size (4-8 guests)

Accommodations

• National Park Permits
• Local transportation

Travel Information

Arrival & Departure Airport: Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) – Transfer time to hotel 30 min Alternate Airport: San Francisco International Airport (SFO) – Transfer time to hotel 3 hours 30 min Our adventure begins at 9 AM on the first day and ends at noon on the last day. Travel Visa: A visa may be required depending on your nationality. Go to Visa Map to find out.

Yosemite – Yosemite Lodge at the Falls, Ahwahnee Hotel or similar

Helpful Links

> 10 Trees Worth Traveling For  – by Erika Suban

Yosemite Prices & Dates

Photographer Leader

Jerry adamo.

October 26-31, 2024 May 1-6, 2025

*All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in upscale boutique hotels in the 4 and 5-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels that offer cultural, historic, and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. In Cuba, we stay in upscale family-owned Casas (bread & breakfasts). On all of our tours, breakfast is almost always included, but not guaranteed. Meal categories listed include (B) for breakfast, (L) for lunch, and (D) for dinner.

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS

Yosemite   6 days, day 1 | fresno - tunnel view - sentinel meadow & cook's meadow.

We meet in the morning at 9 AM at our hotel in Fresno. After breakfast, we will have informal discussions on what our guests are trying to achieve in their photography, subject matters, styles and techniques. Included in the discussion we will discuss PWA’s “10 Guiding Principles of Photography” as well as our “THE ART OF SEEING” photographic technique.

From here we’ll set out on our journey north towards Yosemite. The drive has many opportunities to witness breathtaking scenery, so when inclined, we will take breaks for photography along the way.

We’ll enter the park via the South Entrance, as that is where we’ll come across a spectacular long tunnel that takes us through the mountains and once we are on the other side we will have a quick photo stop at Tunnel View where we will see a grand view of this immaculate park.

As we are nearing the end of the day, we will take a short drive/hike into Sentinel and Cooks Meadow where we will have the pleasure of photographing sunset. Cooks Meadow offers great views of the East and West of the park featuring Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. Trust us, there will not be a bad view in sight.

In the evening we will celebrate with our “Welcome Dinner” in Yosemite Park. (D)

Day 2 | Giant Sequoias - Bridalveil Falls - Glacier Point

After breakfast, our first stop of the day is at the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. It’s by far the biggest sequoia grove in Yosemite, home to hundreds of the handsome beasts, but the 1,800-year-old Grizzly Giant sequoia is worth the trip all by itself. Our hike is a gentle stroll through the forest taking a variation of photographs along the way, capturing these Giants in their best form. A good idea for this location is to bring a wide angle lens, something below 24mm. After we get back from the shuttle ride to Yosemite valley we will head back to our hotel for lunch.

Once lunch is finished, we will have a very short hike to the base of Bridalveil Falls to capture long exposures/quick bursts of the water falling upon the rocks. This is a good spot to create dramatic black and white photos as the rocks add a strong edge to the bright, white waterfall.

When we get back from the hike there will be some downtime to explore the valley on your own. We will meet up again around 5:45 pm to head up into the mountains towards Glacier Point. This spot is known for its spectacular view of Half Dome and is one of Yosemite’s famous Granite Peaks. There are numerous spots at Glacier Point so we will make time before sunset to chose our location to capture the most enchanting spot during Sunset’s glory. Dinner will be back at the hotel. (B)

Day 3 | Lower Yosemite Falls - Tenaya Lake - Mono Lake

Breakfast will be at our hotel and afterwards we will look through our images and discuss the trip to date. We will also have a Q & A about editing techniques. Today is all about photographing water, from waterfalls to lakes. We start our days journey by taking a short stroll over to Lower Yosemite Falls; the waterfall is an astonishing 2,425 foot tall and if there was a building built in the same size it would mass to 200 stories high. What’s amazing about this location is that the water pressure hitting the bottom of the falls will blow your hat right off your head. Once again bring a wide-angle lens option so that you are able to create dramatic landscapes with a full view. We will take a variation of photographs from close up quick shutter exposures to wide long exposures.

Once we have had our fun and exhausted all possibilities for photo ops, we’ll head back to the hotel dining area for a quick snack and pack bag lunches with us to take along on our next adventure. We head east towards Mono Lake but have a first photographic stop at Tenaya Lake. This lake is extremely picturesque and from the west side of the lake the view looks back upon those Granite monsters we just left. This spot will be the prime place to capture a postcard picture moment. Once we are done shooting we will have lunch while enjoying the gorgeous view from Tenaya Lake.

For the Finale of the day we will arrive at Mono Lake. This lake is home to many Tufa Towers and the only thing you can really compare it to would be walking through a cave with stalactites and stalagmites, with the only exception being that there is no cave blocking the gorgeous sunsets. Having the lake reflect the colors is sure to you leave you breathless. This will be our sunset photo location and an image that no one will forget. (B)

Day 4 | Vernal Fall - Wawona Swinging Bridge - Mirror Lake

What Yosemite has done brilliantly is create paths and walkways throughout the park; making sure that all parties interested can see the beauty within its walls. That’s why today we will focus on Yosemite’s footbridges and walkways. Our first spot is at Vernal Falls Footbridge. Only a mile from the trailhead we arrive at the bridge, crossing the North to the South bank of the Merced River. This locations offers spectacular views both down and upstream the river. The view upstream overlooks Vernal Fall. We will work this spot from select angles, capturing the best placement of the falls in our photographs.

After all photos have been captured, we move onto our next bridge; The Wawona Swinging Bridge. If you like Indiana Jones then you will love this bridge as it actually swings. During this time of year, the Wildflowers will be blooming and will make for amazing foregrounds in our images. This part of the Merced River is also used as a swimming hole so if you’re in the mood, bring your swimsuit along. We will also take a walk through the woods around this area to feel a bit of serenity. At this point of the day, we will head back into the valley and grab some lunch to refuel.

For our final sunset of the adventure we have left it blank so that we can all decide on which area we would like to finish the trip. The options will be, Glacier Point, Lower Yosemite Falls or Cook’s Meadow. Either one of these spots will make for stunning photographs. The reason we’ve left it undecided is because not every sunset is a winner, but if we experience a dull sunset on one of our shoots then we have the option to head back there for round two. Once we are all finished for the day we will head back to our hotel for our final night together. As we are winding down the trip, this will be the opportunity to assess our photographs and be educated on the best retouching techniques for each setting. (B)

Day 5 | Panorama Trail (Optional)

Today we begin our most difficult hike of the trip; the Four-Mile Trail. There may be no better way to see what’s so fabulous about Yosemite Valley than to hike the Four-Mile Trail. Starting near the swinging bridge and finishing near the south valley rim of Glacier Point, this hike offers extraordinary views at every turn. We will see all the amazing landmarks that Yosemite Valley has to offer, but from views that have not been shown on a postcard. You have to take this hike to be able to view its glory.

In the beginning, we will pass through giant trees and a field full of wildflowers. From here we enter the winding trail of the hike which will yield a gorgeous view at every turn. What’s so wonderful about this hike is being able to view Yosemite Falls at each turn from a new unique angle. We will need to bring lunch as this will be a hike that will take up most of our day. Once we arrive at the top next to Glacier point we head down the mountain, but on a separate trail that offers different views; The Panorama Trail.

There are memorable views almost everywhere along this hike. On this side, we will gaze such beauties as Nevada falls from above and Illilouette Falls; moving around them as we go getting variations of photographs. These two hikes will take up our entire day, so be prepared to have snacks, sunblock and plenty of water to bring along.

After such a long hike we will bask in our accomplishments back at our hotel as well enjoy our wonderful “Farewell Dinner”. (B) (D)

Note: This hike is optional. Those who are not comfortable with this hike will be guided to alternate locations throughout the day. Everyone will return to the hotel in the afternoon in time for our dinner.

Day 6 | Yosemite - Farewell

On our final morning, we will have a group discussion, review our past week’s photos, trade contact information and say goodbye. We urge you to extend your stay at Yosemite National Park or elsewhere in California and practice all the photography skills you learned on this Photo Workshop Adventure. (B)

(B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner, (E) Excursion

May all who come as guests... leave as friends ®

Subscribe to our Think Orange Magazine  and eNews. THINK ORANGE is a wonderful mix of stories and tips related to travel, photography, adventure, culture, art, technology, cuisine, lifestyle, people and more. Our objective is to immerse you in a world you may only fantasize about. Raise your awareness and inspire your creativity. Perhaps even help make you a better photographer. We deliver similar experiential experiences that our guests enjoy on our photo adventures. Like all of our adventures, our blog is “photo-centric”, while also allowing you to experience all the nuances and cultural aspects of travel and adventure. Welcome to our world. We hope you enjoy. Our eNews is a great way to receive information about upcoming photo adventures, exciting new destinations, photography tips, special offers and more. Subscribe today!

Give someone you know a Gift Card , good toward any of our Photo  Adventures, Photo Tours, Private Guided Tours, Online Courses, Prints or Merchandize. Our beautifully personalized eGift Cards and Certificates are delivered to you electronically. They are fully transferable and have a 2 year expiration date. They are available in any amount from $100 to $5000. It makes a great gift for anyone who loves photography, travel or adventure. Order now , or email for more information.

North America

South & Central America

Southeast Asia

Middle East

Special Offers

Private Guided

Think Orange Magazine

Terms & Conditions

For more information email us or call us at 1-888-834-0288    © 2008 - 2024 Photo Workshop Adventures LLC    All Rights Reserved   Website design by Red Octopus

Privacy Overview

Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.

Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.

Pin It on Pinterest

Yosemite National Park Photo Workshops

Yosemite Photo Workshops

Our 16th Year

Learn landscape photography with a 38-year veteran of Yosemite National Park. Reduce the amount of time thinking about your camera and increase the amount if time thinking about your subject matter and still get mind-boggling shots.  

We're Different; Here's Why

All workshops are conducted by me.  I do not use “workshop leaders”.  I offer help and guidance to all who ask.  Some people know their equipment and only want to know where to go.  Others are new to digital photography and have many questions.  I give my attention to anyone and all.  There is no such thing as too many questions!

Personalized Attention

Beginners welcome.

If you don’t know the difference between an aperture and a hole in the ground, fear not.  There is no such thing as a dumb question.  We welcome brand new photographers. No matter your level of experience, you will come away with new knowledge about how to get the most out of your equipment and your effort.

The whole reason one comes to Yosemite is to find the best opportunity to get the best shot.  And that is dictated by the weather.  You will be able to take advantage of my 37 years shooting Yosemite to know where to be, and when.  Understanding these patterns comes from long experience, enabling me to know whether we need to race to the next location or simply wait for conditions to evolve. We issue two-way radios to drivers in the car pool allowing me to communicate with students when I see changes in weather.

No Itineraries

37 years experience in Yosemite backpacking, fishing, camping, hiking, photographing, etc. in all areas of the park including the backcountry, high country and front country in all seasons.

I’ve been leading workshops for 15 years in Yosemite serving over 789 students from the world over.

What to Expect

We'll see it all.

The thing I can absolutely guarantee, is that you will get exposure to all areas of the valley, all shooting vistas, all major Yosemite geographic views that your time will allow, conditions permitting. The workshops will cover the valley thoroughly with very little hiking.

In 2022, Glacier Point Road was closed for major road repair and reconfiguration of the road and parking lot.  This was a huge project, and it was planned for reopening in 2023. They opened the road with 30 minute delays in mid-summer, but the park service has been closed-lipped about when they plan to be fully reopening. So, we’ll just have to see how  things are when we convene. We’ll hopefully still be able to visit the Tuolumne Meadow area and Tioga Pass area if the road is open.  And, if everyone wants to go, we can even make a side trip to Mono Lake and have dinner at the Whoa Nellie Deli!

For the most part, we do not get up at the crack of dawn in the Yosemite workshops.  Yosemite National Park is a west facing park, and the light is best during late afternoon and sunset.  During the summer, we will be shooting sunsets until 8:30 and 9pm, sometimes at Glacier Point, which is an hour’s drive from Yosemite Valley.  We often do not get into bed until 11pm or midnight.

My Goal For You

You'll learn:.

• Concepts of exposure; the histogram and how to read the graph.
• ISO speeds, aperture and shutter speed , how to ignore the numbers and get GREAT shots.
• Composition; learn the rules and then how and when to break them.
• Use of polarizing and neutral-density filters
• “Dragging the shutter” ; extended exposures (motion blur), even in full sunlight.
• How to make sure you get “the” shot in any given situation.
• Learn the value of patience; how to read the weather.
• Reflections in small pools or on the majestic Merced River (seasonal conditions permitting)
• Yosemite’s waterfalls; the different ways to capture flowing water; Moonbows and “Sun” bows
• Night photography; shooting the Milky Way, stars, and moonlight
• Shooting for black and white conversion
• Wide angle and telephoto lens use.

Nature-Led: Yosemite Guided Tours & Experiences

Covering 1,463 square miles, the rugged beauty of Mariposa County calls out for exploration. From the ethereal loop of Yosemite Valley’s waterfalls to eBiking the county’s labyrinth of fire roads, and from moonlit train rides to learning how to rock climb Yosemite’s signature granite, countless experiences await. Yet “knowing the ropes” can be a tricky proposition.  A tried & true approach? Booking a Yosemite guided tour and letting a local outfitter lead the way.

Why A Guided Tour?

Taking advantage of a local guide can result in a transformative experience where culture, history, and adventure come together seamlessly, and where “inside” knowledge of Yosemite Mariposa County’s great outdoors makes for a nature-led trip to remember. Here are the top reasons why a Yosemite guided tour makes sense.

• Tours cover a range of interests from sightseeing iconic landmarks to fishing and photography, and from wildlife viewing to history and wine tasting.
• Tours cover a range of physical abilities and fitness levels from riding in the comfort of a temperature-controlled vehicle to weeklong backpacking trips into the Yosemite backcountry.
• Some tours are ADA-approved, some are kid-friendly, and others welcome pets.
• Tours are available year-round, with some taking advantage of seasonal conditions such as whitewater rafting in spring and guided snowshoe hikes in winter.
• Costs range from value to luxury, meaning there’s always an option that fits your budget.
• Many operators will work with you to customize a private tour for individuals or groups based on your specific interests.
• Some tours provide add-ons such as free lunches, admission into Yosemite National Park, backcountry permits, and gear for use or rent.
• For driving tours, there’s nothing better than letting someone else take the wheel so you can enjoy the sights uninterrupted.

Classic Tours

It’s impossible to go wrong when touring Yosemite National Park, but there are always a few perennial favorites. The Yosemite Valley Floor Tour is a two-hour highlight reel of the Park’s geologic marvels, bouncy wildlife, and rich history. Led by park rangers and well-versed naturalists, the guided tour is available year-round via open-air tram in summer and heated motor coach with panoramic windows in winter.

Hiking & Backpacking Tours

There’s nothing like those first steps on a Yosemite trail. And having a trusted guide lead the way only makes the experience richer. YExplore Yosemite Adventures offers guided day hikes based on difficulty level (easy to strenuous), and backpacking tours from 2-6 days. Perfect for creating a new chapter in your backcountry backstory.

For outdoor empowerment, the guide-owned Echo Adventures Cooperative offers a variety of Yosemite adventures from sightseeing to summit hiking tours and fishing tours. EAC takes a socially and environmentally sustainable approach while providing gear, transportation, entrance fees, and most important of all — knowledgeable guides. Custom lunches are available for vegan/gluten-free guests.

Thrill-Seeking Tours

Where there are rocks, there are rock climbers. For epic granite-top adventures, the world-renowned Yosemite Mountaineering School & Guide Service has been teaching visitors how to climb since 1969 with group and private classes. Whether you’re ready to graduate to the big walls such as El Capitan or want to start small, this Yosemite Valley institution has you securely clipped and ready to scale. For everything from gym-to-crag to multi-pitch and family climbs, Southern Yosemite Mountain Guides (SYMG) has been operating since 1991 and was voted one of the “Best Outfitters On Earth” by National Geographic Adventure Magazine.

The ultimate in thrill-seeking tours, Skydive Yosemite offers tandem jumps with licensed & experienced pros from 10K, 12K, and 14K feet while providing stunning views of the Sierra crest as well as Yosemite icons El Captain and Half Dome.

For an airborne experience that keeps the heart rate a bit more steady, Airborrn Aviation Services takes guests up in their Cessna, “Joy”, to soar above the Park’s signature landmarks. Tours are available for 1-3 passengers (520 lbs combined max) and can be booked for sunrise & sundown for a magic hour unlike any other.

With the Merced River gracefully weaving through Yosemite Valley and then plunging the westward slope of the Sierra, Yosemite whitewater rafting is a spring rite of passage for thrill-seekers worldwide.  Several licensed tour operators offer a range of packages from half to full-day trips, with lunches and gear provided. For many these tours are life-changing, and a highlight of their Yosemite experience.

Unique Tours

In keeping with Mariposa County’s independent spirit, its unique tours are guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

For a pedal assist that’s good for the environment, Yosemite E-biking is the perfect alternative to car touring as you explore Mariposa, the gateway to Yosemite. From the laid-back streets of downtown to the surrounding Gold Rush history, and from exploring its many fire roads to rock climbing some classic Sierra granite, the tour possibilities are endless. All ages & experience levels are welcome!

Trains have played an important role in Yosemite’s history so it makes sense that visitors can ride the rails in style at Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad . Located 2 miles from historic Fish Camp and the Southern Entrance to Yosemite National Park, the open-air cars are pulled by a vintage Shay steam engine as you weave through the forest and hear stories of the region’s colorful past.  Tours range from the one-hour “Logger” to the “Moonlight Special” — a ride under the stars that features dinner and campfire sing-a-long. Oh, and friendly dogs ride free! 

Tours Departing From San Francisco & Los Angeles

For visitors who’d rather not arrange a car rental or drive unfamiliar roads, several operators provide Yosemite guided tours departing from California’s major cities.

Incredible Adventures departs from San Francisco and offers day and overnight tours that range from Yosemite Valley’s greatest hits to walking among giant sequoias and winter escapes.  Extranomical Yosemite Tours picks guests up from most SF hotels and provides audio translations into eight different languages. Day trips and overnights are available, with accommodations at leading Mariposa County properties.

Serving Los Angeles, California Pacific Excursions gets eco-friendly with its Amtrak train and YARTS bus combo tour, as well as offering bus tours and private charters. Trips from 1 to 3 nights are available, not to mention one-way trips if your travel plans carry you on to forward destinations.

Yosemite Guided Tours: Where to Stay

Choosing where to stay while enjoying a Yosemite guided tour is an exercise in reverse engineering. Figure out your meeting spot for the tour, how you’ll get there from the property, and of course if the accommodations reflect your personal Sierra style. Some hotels such as Tenaya at Yosemite provide their excursions, while some tours offer ground transportation to/from where you’re staying. Be sure to ask your tour operator, and enjoy your stay in Yosemite Mariposa County!

Journey With Confidence

Yosemite’s inimitable “range of light” as captured in the dramatic photos by Ansel Adams can be found in equal measure by enjoying one of Yosemite’s many guided tours. From the tranquil snow-kissed months of winter through the flip-flop days of summer, and from photo safari tours to bird watching and wellness retreats, there is something for everyone. Check out our full list of Yosemite Mariposa guided tours and let nature be your guide!

We use cookies to help us improve, promote, and protect our services. By continuing to use the site, you agree to our cookie policy. More Information

• The John Muir Trail
• About the Gallery
• About Ansel Adams
• News & Exhibits
• Gift Collections

80 Years of Photography Education

OUR PROGRAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY CLASS CALENDAR | MEET OUR INSTRUCTORS | WATCH VIDEO

Yosemite Valley Photography Classes

Join us for photography classes five days a week. Each of our four classes will teach you how to use your camera as well as incorporating Ansel Adams photographic techniques on making photographs and composition. All classes are $65~95 per person.

• Ansel Adams’ Legacy and Your Digital Camera , Thurs 1p
• In The Field: Creative Smartphone Photography – Wed 9am & Sat 1pm
• In the Footsteps of Ansel Adams , Mon 1pm
• Demystifying Digital Exposure – Currently Suspended

Private Photography Guiding

The ultimate Yosemite photography experience. Experience Yosemite through a private guided tour designed to meet your photography dreams. Customized to your photography goals, equipment and level of adventure, our Private Photography Guiding brings you to the park’s most picturesque locations. End your tour with spectacular photos, unforgettable stories, and a deeper connection to the natural world.

Multi-day Photography Workshops

Take a deep dive into the art form of your choice with a workshop designed for the curious. With personalized instruction taught by master instructors, each workshop expands technical skills and enhances participants’ artistic vision. Call Yosemite your home for a week, be engaged by small class sizes with like-minded participants, and bring home your creative masterpiece.  Workshops are usually 3-5 days and start at $1050 per person.

Photography Walks

Free Photography Walks , led by our staff photographers, are offered Tuesday and Thursday throughout the year. These depart from the Gallery porch at 9 AM and are limited to 10 people. Topics are basic information about using cameras, composition, exposure, and whatever questions come up. Both digital and traditional formats are welcome. Please go online or call to reserve your space. Registration opens 3 days in advance of the scheduled walk.

Yosemite Photography Experience with Chateau du Sureau

In partnership with Château du Sureau, The Ansel Adams Gallery welcomes you to join us for an expert-guided curated instructional program for photography enthusiasts at all levels. Registration must be made through Château du Sureau.

PHOTOGRAPHY CLASS SCHEDULE

Meet our photography instructors.

The mission of our highly-trained instructors is to guide you through the fundamentals of learning all aspects of your camera and expanding your visual literacy. We want you to discover, appreciate, protect and support this amazing place that we call home. Take a walk with us today to explore the wonders of Yosemite National Park.

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Twitter
• Share on WhatsApp
• Share on Pinterest
• Share on Reddit
• Share by Mail

The Ansel Adams Gallery

Village Mall

Yosemite National Park

Monday to Sunday

9a – 5p

[email protected]

650-692-3495

• Customer Reviews
• e-Gift cards
• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Partner With Us
• Ansel Adams Newsletter
• Find Your Ansel App

Yosemite Photo Workshop 2022

As one of America’s most popular destinations and world-renowned through the artwork of photographer Ansel Adams, Yosemite National Park offers some of the most spectacular landscape photography opportunities anywhere in the world. Winter is especially beautiful with snow-covered vistas, breathtaking low-lying clouds and the dramatic light reflecting throughout the valley. Join Lerro Photography as we travel throughout Yosemite Valley and photograph landmarks such as El Capitan, Half Dome and many other famous landmarks.

During the workshop, participants will learn how to photograph these scenes under a number of different lighting situations, including sunrise, sunset and nighttime photography. 

The Fire Falls of Horsetail Falls is a natural phenomenon that occurs in mid to late February when Horsetail Falls is lit up by the setting sun, creating the illusion of a blazing waterfall. This event only lasts around 10 minutes with a clear line of sun light. With a little bit of luck from the weather, we’ll get a chance to photograph this amazing event.

Social Distancing and Covid 19 restrictions:  If you are not feeling well, please do not attend the workshop. Please bring a mask just in case.

What You’ll See

Sign Up Information

Lodging, meals and transportation are not included in the ticket price.

• Lodging: There are a number of hotels and cabins in the valley. They are filling up so you should book your hotel reservation soon. If you’re on a budget, you could consider winter camping in the valley. While it may seem challenging, you’ll get the full experience of a Yosemite winter.
• Transportation: Depending on winter weather road conditions, Yosemite National Park may only allow 4WD vehicles in the park. It may turn out that the weather will be pleasant during our trip, but as a precaution, it’s very important that all participants rent a 4WD vehicle, just in case. I’d hate to see someone stuck outside at the gate because weather conditions will not allow for a 2WD vehicle. By law, you’ll also need to carry tire chains in the trunk as a precaution. If needed, you can rent or buy chains in the town of Mariposa, CA.

Bank checks or money orders made payable to:

Lerro Photography PO Box 497 Glenolden, PA 19036

Checks are not subject to credit card convenience charge.

In the envelope with your check, please include a letter with your name, email address, phone number and what you are planning on attending.

Credit Card sales are subject to a 4% convenience charge which is not refundable. The 4% has been added to the price with the button below. Checks are not subject to this charge.

Our latest go/no go date is January 12th. If by January 12th, there are not enough tickets sold, the charter will be canceled. All tickets are non refundable after our go/no go date is set. If a patron can’t make the event after our go/ no go date is set, the patron must find someone else to purchase their ticket or the ticket charge gets credited to a future event. Lerro Photography does reserve the right to cancel a photo charter at their discretion. If the charter is canceled, Lerro Photography will refund the photo charter ticket price. All refunds will be issued by check only. The Credit Card Convenience fee in non-refundable regardless of patron or charter cancellation. Lerro Photography is not responsible for loss of additional expenses.

Lerro Photography reserves the right to make changes to the schedule, dates and or accommodations if need be. We are not responsible for bad weather, delays or cancelations. We are also not responsible for lost or stolen items, injuries, sickness or damages to personal equipment and lost of personal travel expense.

Failure to comply to park rules, regulations and to the direction of Lerro Photography can and will result in your expulsion from the charter without refund. Lerro Photography reserves the right to expel a patron if needed.

THE BEST Yosemite National Park Photography Tours

Photography tours in yosemite national park.

• Multi-day Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Scenic Railroads
• Photography Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Experience Yosemite: Beginner or Advanced Photography Lesson

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Tour of California Self-Guided Driving Bundle

Off-Road Giant Sequoia 4x4 Tour

Family Fun Private Half Day Fly Fishing Adventure

Friday | Sierra Sunset BBQ & Stargazing

Magical Mammoth Lakes Scavenger Hunt

Calaveras County Scavenger Hunt: UnFROGettable Angels Camp

Yosemite National Park Tours & Activities

Yosemite Guided Hikes & Photo Workshops

Your Adventure Awaits

At YExplore we offer exclusive custom experiences with a local guide that help you connect to the natural world of Yosemite National Park and other premier international destinations. Please join us for an adventure of a lifetime. Every YExplore Yosemite Tour includes a vehicle reservation permit into Yosemite National Park during any reservation period.

Book a Tour

Custom Adventures and Outdoor Experiences

Yosemite guided hikes.

Explore with us to learn about the natural world and Yosemite history while visiting some of the best photo spots in the park. Group Tours and Company Outings are available.

Yosemite Snowshoe Tours

Winter months offer exclusive opportunities to enjoy some of Yosemite’s wonderland trails from a truly different perspective on a pair of snowshoes.

Explore Yosemite then the World

We strive to provide transformative outdoor adventures that inspire all generations to make discoveries in nature that lead to personal growth and achievement. our commitment to small group sizes and dedication to customer care distinguish us from our competitors., photograpy workshops.

Our unique Yosemite Photo Workshops present opportunities to take control of your camera and achieve your artistic goals in a natural setting with personalized attention from your professional instructor. Landscape, Night Skies, Yosemite Waterfalls, and Overnight Photography Backpack Workshops are just a few of the many classes we offer.

Find A Pro Photographer

International Treks

Mt. kilimanjaro & african safari.

Reach the summit of Africa’s tallest mountain with us on a 10-day expedition while also exploring the Serengeti and Ngorongoro region of Tanzania on a wildlife photo safari. Explore Tanzania

Mt. Everest Base Camp Trek

Nepal Trek to Mt. Everest Base Camp Explore the Everest Region of the Himalaya with us on a 22 day expedition while giving back to Sherpa communities in Nepal. Explore Nepal

Inca Trail To Machu Picchu

Yosemite adventures blog, yosemite vehicle reservation permits.

Yosemite National Park is implementing a permit reservation system in 2024. YExplore Yosemite Adventures offers Yosemite Vehicle Reservation Permits available to guests on all guided hikes and … Read More >>

Yosemite Bear Gifts Clearance

Shop now to take advantage of our Yosemite Bear Gifts Clearance event. Purchases are available for our entire inventory of Tunnel View Bear Hats, T-shirts, Hoodies, and Decals. Call us at … Read More >>

Kilimanjaro and Safari Cyber Monday Deal

Receive our exclusive Kilimanjaro and Safari Cyber Monday Deal with $500 off our Mt. Kilimanjaro summit trek African safari package with a Zanzibar resort retreat on January 16, 2025. Just enter … Read More >>

YExplore YouTube Channel

Yosemite Bear Gear by YExplore Dismiss

Yosemite in Autumn

The national park in all its photogenic glory.

No other photo location in North America can generate as powerful an image of soaring granite monoliths and spectacular glacially-carved valleys than Yosemite National Park. More than any other landscape, Yosemite is the setting that defines the Sierra Nevada and, in a broader context, stands as a geographical icon for the American West. Within the park, the names of its prominent features—El Capitan and Half Dome—not only immediately evoke the legendary presence of John Muir and Ansel Adams, but also embody the quintessential symbols of the American wilderness.

Autumn in Yosemite is a season of welcome transition. Summer crowds diminish, returning clouds add drama to crisp blue skies, and the mad rush of waterfalls and cascades has stilled, now in wait for early winter rains. The sunlight, harsh in summer, lies at a lower angle, painting the park’s iconic formations with a softer, mellower light. Temperatures are generally mild with sunny days and cold nights, yet in this season anything is possible—dramatic storm clouds gathering for a sudden rain, rolling low-lying tendrils of morning fog, a layer of frost on the fall-cured grasses of Yosemite’s great meadows, or an early snowfall to highlight autumn leaves.

The fall is the best time of year for creating “reflectionscapes.” The Merced River flows at a gentler pace and autumn-hued foliage and granite monoliths are framed in the mirror-like waters. Cottonwoods flash a golden stroke of color along river banks. Leaf color in Yosemite has a subdued palette and is at the whim of moisture, light and weather. The rose reds of dogwoods and the yellow hues of black oak and bigleaf maple can highlight dark green groves of conifers or soaring gray walls.

Our daily schedule revolves around the light, weather and color. We are out early to catch the fingers of swirling mist in the valley—conditions that can promise a spectacular image. The quiet waters and the always photogenic grand vistas of Yosemite Valley keep us busy until golden sunset light falls on El Capitan.  We have time to compose diverse images from wide-angle landscapes with fall color to intimate scenes in still corners. Abstract compositions of rock, leaf and grasses present unique possibilities as textures and colors spring to life in the low light.

The towering rock walls that form the bones of Yosemite’s spectacular valley are at their finest in warm autumn light. The swiftly changeable fall weather adds an element of potential dramatic photography as clouds, mist and a possible early snowfall offer options for new photographic subjects and locations. From grand vistas to quiet reflections, from colossal crags to the delicate reds of dogwood leaves, and from expansive meadows to a moonlit nighttime sky, Yosemite in autumn is a never-ending source of inspiration.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 (Oct 20, 2024) Participants arrive in Fresno, California, by early afternoon today. We include round-trip transportation to Yosemite National Park and our convenient lodging within the Yosemite Valley. (D)

Day 7   (Oct 26, 2024)  We drive to the Fresno airport this morning. Please schedule your return flight for no earlier than noon. (B)

  Van Os Photo Safaris is an Authorized Permittee of the US National Park Service.

Tour Details

2024 Yosemite in Autumn: Easy Activity Level: Van transportation. Photography from the road and easy walks on established national park trails.

Tour Highlights

• Capture the legendary vistas of Yosemite’s signature domes and towering walls during the park’s quieter autumn season
• Fleeting fingers of morning mist drape the valley and warm low light turns granite icons to gold at sunset
• Low water levels and patches of autumn color create perfect conditions for reflections in rivers and lakes
• Trip includes all meals, lodging, ground transportation, national park fees, photo guide and instruction

Tour Leaders

Josh miller.

Testimonials

Carefully chosen locations made a huge difference in the quality of our images. Your chosen photo leaders are pros. — R. V.

I enjoyed having all the details — lodging, meals and transportation — arranged for me. It was great having an experienced and knowledgeable guide take us to the best spots for photography, including places totally off the beaten path where we didn’t have to compete with crowds…It was a wonderful trip, and I came home with some amazing photographs. — Anne S.

The leader knew the park well and took us to the right places at the right times to make fantastic images! — Marie B.

Trip Reports

Yosemite in Autumn 2023 Trip Report

Yosemite in Autumn 2022 Trip Report

Joseph van os photo safaris enrollment information, 2024 yosemite in autumn.

Oct 20 – Oct 26 2024

ENROLLMENT CONDITIONS 1. REGISTRATION A deposit and completed and signed Registration Form are required to reserve a place on a Van Os Photo Safari.

2. PAYMENTS, CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS All prices are quoted in US dollars and all payments must be paid in US dollars. For deposits we accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express. Final payment of the trip fee is due 120 days prior to departure and may be paid by check or bank transfer. If you wish to make your final payment with a credit card a 3% convenience fee will be charged.

We must receive written notice of your cancellation. Based on the cancellation date the following apply:

Trip deposits are non-refundable . 150-91 days before the trip start date: We will refund any payments made exceeding 50% of the total trip cost. 90-61 days before the trip start date: We will refund any payments made exceeding 75% of the total trip cost. Within 60 days of the start of the trip: No refund.

If, on the trip start date , your space has been resold and the tour is full—as designated by “Limit” number of travelers on the tour website page—we will refund your payment, minus the non-refundable trip deposit and any discounts given to resell your space.

No partial refunds are made for unused portions or services of a trip for any reason. Trips are sold as a package only. This policy also applies to tour extensions and independent travel arrangements. Cancellation fees are not transferable.

3. TRIP INSURANCE We strongly encourage you to protect your travel investment and purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy that includes emergency evacuation coverage.     We can provide travel insurance options, or it can be purchased online. A CANCEL FOR ANY REASON policy is available. Trip participants without travel protection insurance are considered “self-insured.” Without insurance you assume all risks and losses for any conditions requiring your cancellation.

4. HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS Van Os Photo Safaris are within the capabilities of average people in good health. Some of these trips require the capability of walking for several miles over uneven trails, stepping from a small boat to a wave-washed rocky beach, flying in small planes and helicopters, and occasionally hiking at high elevations—all while carrying an assortment of camera equipment. If you have concerns about your own capabilities and/or fitness as it relates to a trip, please inquire with our office before reserving a space. By forwarding a signed Registration Form and trip deposit, you certify that you do not knowingly have any physical or other conditions of disability that would create a risk for you, or other trip participants and you agree to inform our office in writing if changes in your health, including viral illnesses, occur any time prior to the tour. We reserve the right to request a doctor's statement of good health. The company's or trip leader's judgment shall provide the ultimate determination of an individual's ability to embark upon or to continue a trip. Once a trip has been confirmed, medical circumstances will not be considered as exceptions to our cancellation policy. We assume no responsibility for medical care or for special dietary requirements. Tour members are asked to refrain from smoking with or near the group.

5. CONTACT SCHEDULE Participants will receive three emails before the trip departs: 1. Initial Tour Information sheet confirms the deposit and provides pre-departure information. 2. Invoice/Practical Information provides clothing and photo gear recommendations, climate data, and applicable health advisories. Visa information will also be included (if applicable). 3. Final Tour Information includes arrival instructions, itinerary revisions (if any), hotel addresses, trip telephone contact information and participant list. We provide the trip leader's telephone number(s) and/or email address with final documents so you can inquire about special photographic questions you may have regarding your trip. We welcome your calls or email messages to [email protected].

6. PHOTO SAFARI TRIP FEE INCLUSIONS Information supplied upon enrollment describes the specific details that are included in your trip fee. Generally, these include lodging in double room occupancy, all meals (specified in the itinerary as BLD denoting breakfast, lunch, or dinner), ground transportation during the trip in vans or small busses, internal tour air transportation as specified, meal and baggage tipping, and guide services provided by the trip leaders. Not included are airfare or other transportation from your home to the trip staging location, airport departure taxes, insurance, alcoholic beverages, and bar expenses (plus bottled water and soft drink expenses on international tours outside of North America), tips and gratuities to local guides, phone calls, passport or visa expenses, laundry, or items of a personal nature. Gratuities to Van Os Photo Safaris trip leaders are optional and always appreciated. Rates are based on group tariffs; if the trip does not have sufficient registration, a small party supplement may be charged.

Most of our trips are priced in double occupancy (shared) accommodations. Single accommodation is available for a supplemental cost in many locations; see the pre-departure trip information or call our office for details. You will be charged the single supplement fee if you desire single accommodation or if you wish to have a roommate, but one is not available. In some remote locations, clients with single rooms are infrequently compelled to share a room due to circumstances beyond our control. In such cases, appropriate per diem refunds will be made reflecting the direct cost of the single room at the facility where clients are required to share. There is no additional single supplement fee on ship-based cruises if you request a roommate and one is not available.

Cost increases may occur unexpectedly due to rising costs of airfares, ground transport, fuel surcharges, accommodations, and currency fluctuations, among others. Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc. may be compelled to amend prices, and we reserve the right to do so without prior notice. An increase in trip prices shall not be sufficient grounds for any refund of funds paid for the trip other than as determined by the terms of our cancellation policy.

7. LOGISTICS Whenever possible, our trip participants are lodged in comfortable, modern hotels. We select among the best available accommodations but refrain from extravagance. Some interesting photographic destinations are far removed from modern amenities, however, and where necessary we will be accommodated in rustic country inns, cabins, or tented camps.

Meals are always a special part of our trips for the camaraderie they engender and the opportunity they provide to try new foods from different areas. Depending on the trip and specific locale, participants order restaurant meals from the full menu or, less frequently, table d'hôte. Some trips include picnic lunches in the field. Fruit juice for breakfast and coffee or tea is included with the meals. Soft drinks are included with meals on tours within North America. Participants are responsible for their own bar tab (including bottled water, soft drinks, as well as alcoholic beverages on tours outside of North America) at restaurant lunches and dinners.

Our itineraries are intended as examples only. Participants should allow for flexibility due to changes in weather, natural history or cultural events, or other logistical arrangements deemed necessary by Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc., or our leaders.

The second tour leader (and any subsequent additional leaders) listed for each trip on the website will be added as the group size warrants. If only one space remains on a trip, and logistics permit, we accept two people traveling together, even if it exceeds the trip maximum.

8. RESPONSIBILITY Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc. and/or their Agents act only as agents for the passenger (trip participant) in regard to travel including, but not limited to, sightseeing, meals, lodging, transportation, and all other services whether by railroad, motor coach, automobile, van, boat, ship or aircraft or any other conveyance, and they assume no liability for injury, damage, loss, accident, delay or irregularity which may be occasioned for any reason whatsoever, or through the acts, bankruptcy or default of any company or person engaged in conveying the passenger or in carrying out the arrangements of the trip.

They can accept no responsibility for losses or additional expenses due to delay, cancellations or changes in flights or other tour services, and by force majeure including sickness, weather, strike, war, volcanic eruption, terrorist acts, political unrest, quarantine, epidemics, pandemics and outbreaks, or other causes. All such losses or expenses will have to be borne by the passenger, as trip fees provide for arrangements only for the times and locations stated. Baggage is at the owner's risk entirely.

The right is reserved to 1) substitute hotels of similar category for those indicated and to make any changes in the itinerary or transport where deemed necessary, or caused by changes in flight schedules or equipment substitution; 2) cancel any trip prior to departure due to low enrollment, in which case full refund of the paid trip funds will be given, but Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc. is not responsible for any other trip preparation expenses such as penalized or non-refundable air tickets, visa fees, travel insurance premiums and medical related expenses; 3) At the company’s sole discretion, suspend or postpone any trip due to force majeure or disease outbreak in which case the trip may be rescheduled, or a refund issued less any non-refundable deposits paid to tour component providers on behalf of the passenger, or a travel credit given, but Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc. is not responsible for any other trip preparation expenses such as penalized or non-refundable air tickets, visa fees and medical related expenses; 4) substitute trip leader(s) for the leader(s) originally specified, in which case the substitution is not a basis for participant cancellation or refund other than provided by our normal cancellation policy; or 5) accept or retain any person as a member of any trip.

Trip prices are based on tariffs and exchange rates in effect at the time of publication and are subject to adjustment in the event of any change therein.

A signed Registration Form with the Enrollment Conditions and Release and Assumption of Risk sections must be returned by each participant prior to the commencement of the trip. Participation by any trip member will be declined in the absence of the signed Registration Form including the Release and Assumption of Risk section, with no trip fee refund. No modification to the Registration Form including the Release and Assumption of Risk section will be accepted.

Should Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc., or anyone acting on their behalf be required to incur attorney's fees and any costs to enforce this agreement, the enrolling trip participant(s) agree(s) to indemnify and hold them harmless for all such fees and costs. In the event a lawsuit is filed, the enrolling participant(s) agree(s) to do so solely in the County of Lewis in the State of Washington.

ENROLLMENT CONDITIONS AGREEMENT & RELEASE & ASSUMPTION OF RISK

I have read, understand, and agree to the terms, conditions, and provisions of the enrollment information, as stated on the Van Os Photo Safaris Inc. website and the Enrollment Conditions section of this form, especially noting the policy on cancellations, refunds, and limitations on responsibility.

I am aware that during any trip or tour that I am voluntarily participating in under the arrangements of Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc., a Washington corporation, and its employees, agents and associates, certain risks and dangers exist while traveling in the United States, foreign countries, and wilderness areas in any country or territory that include the possibility of property damage, bodily injury, and death. There is a possibility of accident or illness occurring without access to immediate or timely medical treatment or facilities. There is a risk of tropical or communicable diseases that may require quarantine and removal from the tour at my expense, food-related illnesses, the risk of personal injury and property damage or delay or inconvenience by forces of nature, wildlife or wildlife models, quarantine, political instability, acts of terrorism, strikes, government restrictions or regulations change, thefts, and the risk of accidents during travel while on foot or by aircraft, train, automobile, van, bus, boat, ship, or other conveyance. I understand that such risks cannot be eliminated without jeopardizing the essential qualities of this trip or tour.

In consideration of, and as part payment for the right to participate in such trips, tours and/or other activities and services arranged for me by Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc., its employees, agents and associates, I have and do hereby assume all risks, and hereby release Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc., its employees, shareholders, agents and associates, and will hold them harmless from any and all liability, actions, causes of actions, debts, claims, and demands of every kind and nature, howsoever caused, which I now have or which may arise of or in connection with any of my trips or tours and participation in any activities arranged for me by Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc., its employees, agents and associates.

Should Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc., or anyone acting on their behalf, be required to incur attorney's fees and costs to enforce this Agreement, I agree to indemnify them and hold them harmless for all such fees and costs. In the event any lawsuit is filed, I agree to do so solely in the County of Lewis in the State of Washington and further agree that the substantive law of that state shall apply in that action without regard to the conflict-of-law rules of that state. The terms hereof shall serve as a release and assumption of all risk for myself, my heirs, executors, and administrators, and for all members of my family.

Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc. may take photos and video during your photo tour and use them for promotional purposes. By making a trip reservation with us, you agree to let us use your name and likeness in any images and video in which you may appear, for our promotional materials, website, or advertising. We may also use any written reviews or photos and video you may provide us with for use on our website and in any advertising and all other forms of publicity. If you prefer to be excluded from this proviso, please let your tour leader know at the beginning of your trip.

If any part, article, paragraph, sentence, or clause of this Agreement is not enforceable, the affected provision shall be curtailed and limited only to the extent necessary to bring it within the requirements of the law, and the remainder of the Agreement shall continue in full force and effect. I acknowledge that if anyone is hurt or property is damaged during my participation in this activity, I may be found by a court of law to have waived my right to maintain a lawsuit against Van Os Photo Safaris, Inc., its employees, shareholders, agents, and associates, based on any and all claims from which I have released them.

Yosemite Photo Workshops

• Eastern Sierra Photo Workshops
• Death Valley Photo Workshops
• Hawaii Photo Workshops
• Grand Canyon Photo Workshops
• Iceland Photo Workshops
• New Zealand Photo Workshops
• Pacific Northwest Photo Workshops
• Personal Photo Workshops
• All Workshops
• Yosemite Photo Locations
• Yosemite and Me
• Mailing List

Gary Hart Photography Workshops

Your shopping cart is empty!

Workshop Full

Do you know when and where to photograph a full moon rising above Half Dome at sunset, the best time to photograph Yosemite's spring dogwood bloom and fall color, the secret to photographing Yosemite’s “natural firefall,” or the best spots in Yosemite for sunrise and sunset? I can show you all these things, guide you to all the "classic" Yosemite scenes, and show you many equally great but less known spots. I will also work hard to ensure that you finish your workshop a better photographer than when you started.

Each workshop includes small groups, a second qualified instructor, and private lodging. In addition to great photography, you’ll improve your skills with pre-workshop training material, expert training in the field and in the classroom, and constructive image review. Conditions permitting, most workshops include night photography preceeded by training that will get you up to speed. You’ll return home a better photographer, with the images to prove it. You’ll also have a lot of fun.

2024 Yosemite Spring: Moonbow & Wildflowers Photo Workshop

Spring in Yosemite Photo Workshop 2024 Moonbow and Wildflowers April 21 - 24, 2024 Treat yourself..

2024 Yosemite Spring: Waterfalls & Dogwood Photo Workshop

Spring in Yosemite Photography Workshop Waterfalls and Dogwood April 29 - May 2, 2024 Treat ..

2024 Yosemite Fall Color and Reflections Photo Workshop

October 29 - November 1, 2024 See for yourself why autumn is a Yosemite photographer’s p..

2025 Yosemite Winter Moon Photo Workshop

January 9 - 12, 2025 In this spectacular winter workshop, we'll photograph Yosemite with snow (fing..

2025 Yosemite Winter: Horsetail Fall Photo Workshop

February 18 - 21, 2025 With clearing storms that give way to a blanket of white, nothing is quite s..

2025 Yosemite Spring: Moonbow & Wildflowers Photo Workshop

Spring in Yosemite Photo Workshop 2025 Moonbow and Wildflowers April 11 - 14, 2025 Treat yourself..

2025 Yosemite Spring: Waterfalls & Dogwood Photo Workshop

Spring in Yosemite Photography Workshop Waterfalls and Dogwood April 28 - May 1, 2025 Treat ..

Information

• Cancellation Policy

WORKSHOP REVIEWS

Informative and enlightening.

Your workshop was the most enjoyable, informative and enlightening experience I've had in the many years that I've been taking pictures.

Superlative

Thank you soooooo much for planning and executing such a superlative time for all of us. Your expertise and local knowledge is invaluable… I can't think of a better experience in stunning surroundings and I learned and tremendously improved my skills due to your tutelage.

—DS, Florida

Perfect Workshop

Thank you for a perfect workshop. Totally perfect. It was just incredible, all of it.

—S.P., Vermont

20 Awesome Yosemite Photography Spots You Should Not Miss

Yosemite National Park is an absolute dream for photography enthusiasts but the scope of the park can leave you feeling overwhelmed. Take the guesswork out of where to spend your time by adding our top Yosemite photography spots to your itinerary.

We visited Yosemite National Park as part of a 9 Day Northern California Trip with Globus Journeys .

Despite the common misconception that you cannot take great photos while on a group tour, we captured several beautiful images of Yosemite National Park. We even took a private photography tour with the Ansel Adams Gallery as part of the new Globus Choice Touring options.

Whether you’re hiking, driving, or on tour, Yosemite National Park will sweep you into bliss with its heavenly and Instagram-worthy views. Trust me, it’s hard to take a bad photograph in this scenic and surreal adventure playground.

20 Best Yosemite Photography Spots

Table of Contents

In Yosemite Valley

1. tunnel view .

Very few Yosemite photography spots are as popular and mainstream as this viewpoint. In fact, it’s arguably the most well-known viewpoint in this national park. 

From this viewpoint, hikers and photographers may indulge in an iconic and postcard-worthy view of Bridalveil Falls, Half Dome, El Capitan, and the whole valley. 

The best time to visit the viewpoint is at sunset when shadows from the walls of the valley are minimal. Not to mention, Half Dome and El Capitan shine in a striking light at sunset. 

Sunrise is a fantastic time to visit the Tunnel View too since it has limited shadows, thinner crowds and offers an opportunity to snap fog that rolls into the valley. 

Photography tips:

• Best season for photography: Year round
• Best time for photography: Sunrise or sunset
• Hike difficulty: Easy 
• Location of the spot: Yosemite Valley 

2. Inspiration Point 

If you’re on the hunt for a less crowded alternative to Tunnel View, look no further than Inspiration Point.

With an elevation gain of around 1,000 feet, getting to Inspiration Point can be quite a challenge, especially if you’re carrying heavy photography equipment. 

But, it’s totally worth the effort. Besides the pleasant views, the vantage point also is free from the sea of tourists, making photography a breeze here. 

• Best season for photography: All Year (hard to hike in the winter months)
• Best time for photography: Sunset
• Hike difficulty: Moderate 

3. El Capitan

El Capitan is a mecca for rock climbing in America. Every year, hardcore climbers come to El Cap to conquer and complete this perilous climb. But, you don’t have to be a hardcore climber to enjoy this famed landmark in Yosemite National Park. 

For photographers, you may snap a photo of this sheer and iconic granite rock face from El Capitan Meadow. This meadow sits directly across from the rock and is a golden brown in winter and fall and a lush green in summer and spring. 

With a telephoto lens, it is possible to locate and snap photos of the rock climbers on El Capitan. 

• Best season for photography: Year round 
• Best time for photography: Evening or afternoon 
• Hike difficulty: Easy  

4. Cook’s Meadow

Cook’s Meadow is home to some of the most fascinating Yosemite photography spots. In summer and spring, this meadow is lush and alluring in green. In fall, this meadow turns into a mesmerizing shade of brown. 

Even better, the meadow offers views of Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. On top of it all, you’ll likely spot some wildlife grazing peacefully in the meadow. 

• Best season for photography: Between spring and fall  
• Best time for photography: Late afternoon 

5. Bridalveil Falls

Bridalveil Falls is one of the most visually captivating Yosemite Photography spots. And, you can see this natural wonder from a variety of spots within the national park, including Tunnel View. 

Unlike some of the park’s waterfalls, there’s water flowing throughout the year here. Spring, however, is the best and most impressive time to see this cascade. 

During our visit in the fall, there was so little water that the falls were but a gentle mist. If you want heavy water, plan a visit in May.

• Best season for photography: Spring 
• Hike difficulty: Easy    

6. Half Dome

Half Dome is one of the most renowned and iconic Yosemite photo spots. Most hikers opt to take the journey to the summit every year on a tough and strenuous hike. But, this landmark is, to me, best photographed from a little further away. 

A great spot to enjoy an unobstructed view of Half Dome is from the beautiful meadow alongside Northside Drive. You can also get fantastic views from Olmstead Point and Glacier Point.

• Best season for photography: All year
• Best time for photography: Before sunset  
• Location of the spot: Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, Olmstead Point 

7. Mirror Lake 

In spring, the snow melts across the park and flows down wonderfully from the High Sierras. Then, this water is collected in full and gorgeous, sparkling lakes, like Mirror Lake. To me, this view is an absolute must in summer and spring. 

• Best season for photography: Between spring and summer 
• Best time for photography: Early morning

8. Valley View 

Valley View lures photographers with serene views of both the Merced River and El Capitan. At sunset, the valley wows visitors with the unique lighting on the famed El Capitan.

Winter is also a fabulous time to see Valley View when its trees and meadows are covered in snow. 

• Best season for photography: All year 
• Best time for photography: Sunset 

9. Sentinel Bridge

It is from the historic Sentinel Bridge that you will have a chance to photograph the coveted Half Dome reflection in the Merced River.

To do this takes perfect timing, as the water must be both low and still in order to see a reflection. This is typically in the fall months. When the water is low you can also walk down to the riverside for better perspectives.

Even if your visit isn’t timed right for the reflection, this is one of the most beautiful places to frame Half Dome within Yosemite National Park.

• Best season for photography: Fall for reflections 
• Best time for photography: Anytime
• Location of the spot: Yosemite Valley

10. Yosemite Chapel

The Yosemite Chapel sits on the valley floor surrounded by towering rock, grassy meadows, waterfalls, and trees. This makes it a playground for creativity and you shouldn’t miss it.

At 130 years old, it also offers beautiful and unique architecture sat against stark natural contrast. It’s also all that remains of the old Yosemite Village that resided on the valley floor.

11. Merced River

The Merced River is the main water vein of Yosemite National Park and demands the center presence in Yosemite Valley. It’s hard to visit this park without seeing this river.

It’s possible to see the river along the entire valley, meaning it offers many vantage points to create beautiful and unique photography of Yosemite.

Some of our favorite places to incorporate the river into the photos were Sentinel Bridge, Swinging Bridge, Cooks Meadow, and Valley View.

12. Mariposa Grove 

Think Yosemite is all about granite rocks and majestic waterfalls? Well, guess what? Yosemite is home to some of the world’s oldest and largest trees too.

At Mariposa Grove, you’ll find several towering Giant Sequoia trees, with some of them over 2,000 years old. Of all the hiking we did in Yosemite, this was our favorite place.

The photography opportunities are endless, especially if you go in the early morning when the light is peaking through the trees. Plan a solid half-day here so you have time to visit the Upper Grove, where many of the most impressive trees reside.

• Best time for photography: Early morning 
• Location of the spot: Wawona  

13. Wawona Covered Bridge

The Wawona Covered Bridge was constructed in 1868 and marks the original entrance to Yosemite National Park. It crosses the Merced River among a beautiful pine forest, making it a great place to grab some photos.

The Pioneer Yosemite History Center is also located here. It offers an open-air museum with old settler items that give you varying composition options against the backdrop of the bridge.

At certain times of the year, they also do traditional horse-drawn wagon rides that cross over the bridge. If you time this right, you’ll get very cool historical-themed photos that are unique to Yosemite.

• Best season for photography: All year  
• Best time for photography: Afternoon 

Along Tioga Pass Road

14. tenaya lake.

Tenaya Lake is one of the most accessible lakes in Yosemite National Park. Surprisingly, though, it is located in one of the lesser-visited areas near the Tioga Pass entrance.

Don’t let this deter you as it is the jewel of Yosemite’s high country alpine lakes. The lake offers a large surface area with long beaches and a spectacular backdrop. Simply stated, it’s worth the journey to this part of the park.

• Best season for photography: Between late spring and mid-fall 
• Best time for photography: Morning or evening 
• Location of the spot: Tioga Pass Road 

15. Tuolumne Meadows

Tuolumne Meadows is an underrated attraction that should be on your list of the best Yosemite photography spots. While not as popular as the spots in Yellowstone valley, this meadow will enthrall you with its clear alpine lakes and grassy fields. 

With an elevation of 8,600 feet above sea level, you’ll be surrounded by jaw-dropping views. It’s also a great place to view and photograph wildlife.To get the best photos in this area, we recommend camping out for a couple nights in the nearby campground.

16. Olmsted Point 

Not in the mood for a hike? Why not take a drive up to Olmsted Point? From here, you may admire Half Dome wonderfully framed by the expansive High Sierras.  

When the sun starts to set, the sky from this vantage point comes alive with colors, highlighting the vista of Tenaya Lake in one direction and Half Dome in the other.

To be honest, this is one of our absolute favorite viewpoints in the park. Make sure to take the trail that leads you into the woods and onto a massive rock for unobstructed views in both directions. 

• Best time for photography: Anytime – offers good sunrise & sunset 

Along Glacier Point Road

17. taft point.

Taft Point is, no doubt, one of the best Yosemite photography spots for sunset. Situated west of Glacier Point, this attraction stuns photographers with wide panoramic views of El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, and Yosemite Valley. 

What’s more, it features giant fissures that surely make eye-catching travel snaps. At sunset, you’ll see the blue sky turning to bright orange and purple, highlighting the valley’s granite rock faces. 

Since it’s a popular spot, we recommend arriving at least an hour before sunset. And, don’t forget to bring a headlamp, as you’ll be hiking in the dark after photographing the vantage point at sunset. 

• Location of the spot: Glacier Point Road 

18. Sentinel Dome 

Sentinel Dome rewards hikers and photographers with some of the best vistas in Yosemite National Park. As you stand at the summit of the dome, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking, 360-degree view of Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and Half Dome. 

The best time to visit and take a photo from Sentinel Dome is at golden hour or sunset. The golden hues that paint the valley create a striking and dreamy light. 

 Photography tips:

19. Glacier Point Road Switchback

Arguably one of the most famous spots in Yosemite is the Glacier Point switchback. This is the place where the road does a switchback before arriving at the parking lot for Glacier Point.

At the fold is an open vista to Half Dome that is framed by trees. This spot has been shown numerous times on Instagram.

It’s worth noting that there is no parking at the corner and you are not allowed to pull off on the shoulder. It is narrow and there is no room.

So if you want to photograph this spot, drive all the way to the Glacier Point parking lot and then walk backup the road.

• Best time for photography: Afternoon

20. Glacier Point 

No list of the best Yosemite photography spots is complete without Glacier Point. At this vantage, photographers and Instagrammers may snap photos that beautifully overlook the High Sierras, Half Dome, and Yosemite Valley. 

To get to this vantage, you may either hike the Four Mile Trail or drive your way up. For photographers, I suggest that you take the drive instead of the hike.

Not only is it the easier and more convenient option, but the scenic drive is also filled with incredible sights and views. 

Once at the top, put on your walking shoes and head towards the main viewing area. On your way back, deviate on some of the trails for different vantage points.

• Best time for photography: Sunrise or sunset

Our Northern California trip was part of a paid partnership with  Globus Journeys  and  iAmbassador . However, all opinions, stories, advice, and insane love for giant sequoias are 100% ours, as always.

You might also like:

• 21 Reasons to Take a Tour in the USA
• Ultimate USA Travel Guide
• Ultimate US National Parks Bucket List (All 63 Parks By State)
• Best Hikes in the USA: 15 Stunning Trails You Cannot Miss

Did you like this story? Share it!

Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• TripAdvisor

• Testimonials
• Travel Tips

Moscow Metro

About Me in Short

My name's Arthur Lookyanov, I'm a private tour guide, personal driver and photographer in Moscow, Russia. I work in my business and run my website Moscow-Driver.com from 2002. Read more about me and my services , check out testimonials of my former business and travel clients from all over the World, hit me up on Twitter or other social websites. I hope that you will like my photos as well.

See you in Moscow!

• View full size
• Owner: Moscow Guide & Driver
• Date: June 3, 2012 06:12:00 am EDT
• File name: ALP-2012-0603-146-Entering-Moscow-Metro-Station-Komsomolskaya.jpg
• Tags: Russia , Moscow Metro , Komsomolskaya , Moscow Highlights , escalators , Moscow Famous Landmarks , underground palace , Moscow

GPS Location of the Photo

Google maps.

• GPS Map of this album
• GPS Map of Moscow Guide & Driver's pictures

Random image

Bomber Tu-160 Refuels from Tanker Il-78 Flying over Red Square

MOSCOW, RUSSIA - MAY 7, 2016: Russian Air Force Tupolev Ilyushin Il-78M (NATO reporting name "Midas") aerial refueling tanker imitates in-flight refueling of bomber Tu-160 (NATO reporting name "Blackjack") during general rehearsal of Victory Day military parade iin Moscow to commemorate the 71th anniversary of the capitulation of Nazi Germany in 1945.

Featured Tags

• 273 photos are tagged with architecture
• 199 photos are tagged with cathedrals
• 305 photos are tagged with churches
• 294 photos are tagged with Dear Clients
• 260 photos are tagged with lights
• 1875 photos are tagged with Moscow
• 306 photos are tagged with Moscow by Night
• 194 photos are tagged with Moscow cityscapes
• 264 photos are tagged with Moscow Kremlin
• 326 photos are tagged with night moscow
• 426 photos are tagged with Orthodox Churches
• 226 photos are tagged with Red Square
• 2538 photos are tagged with Russia
• 209 photos are tagged with twilights
• 350 photos are tagged with Winter

Take one of these exciting tours:

• Moscow Highlights
• Discovering the Golden Ring of Russia
• Arts & Culture Tours
• Moscow by Night tour

• Preplanned tours
• Daytrips out of Moscow
• Themed tours
• Customized tours
• St. Petersburg

Moscow Metro

The Moscow Metro Tour is included in most guided tours’ itineraries. Opened in 1935, under Stalin’s regime, the metro was not only meant to solve transport problems, but also was hailed as “a people’s palace”. Every station you will see during your Moscow metro tour looks like a palace room. There are bright paintings, mosaics, stained glass, bronze statues… Our Moscow metro tour includes the most impressive stations best architects and designers worked at - Ploshchad Revolutsii, Mayakovskaya, Komsomolskaya, Kievskaya, Novoslobodskaya and some others.

What is the kremlin in russia?

The guide will not only help you navigate the metro, but will also provide you with fascinating background tales for the images you see and a history of each station.

And there some stories to be told during the Moscow metro tour! The deepest station - Park Pobedy - is 84 metres under the ground with the world longest escalator of 140 meters. Parts of the so-called Metro-2, a secret strategic system of underground tunnels, was used for its construction.

During the Second World War the metro itself became a strategic asset: it was turned into the city's biggest bomb-shelter and one of the stations even became a library. 217 children were born here in 1941-1942! The metro is the most effective means of transport in the capital.

There are almost 200 stations 196 at the moment and trains run every 90 seconds! The guide of your Moscow metro tour can explain to you how to buy tickets and find your way if you plan to get around by yourself.

Moscow Metro Tour

• Page active

Description

Moscow metro private tours.

• 2-hour tour $87:  10 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with hotel pick-up and drop-off
• 3-hour tour $137:  20 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with Russian lunch in beautifully-decorated Metro Diner + hotel pick-up and drop off. 
• Metro pass is included in the price of both tours.

Highlight of Metro Tour

• Visit 10 must-see stations of Moscow metro on 2-hr tour and 20 Metro stations on 3-hr tour, including grand Komsomolskaya station with its distinctive Baroque décor, aristocratic Mayakovskaya station with Soviet mosaics, legendary Revolution Square station with 72 bronze sculptures and more!
• Explore Museum of Moscow Metro and learn a ton of technical and historical facts;
• Listen to the secrets about the Metro-2, a secret line supposedly used by the government and KGB;
• Experience a selection of most striking features of Moscow Metro hidden from most tourists and even locals;
• Discover the underground treasure of Russian Soviet past – from mosaics to bronzes, paintings, marble arches, stained glass and even paleontological elements;
• Learn fun stories and myths about Coffee Ring, Zodiac signs of Moscow Metro and more;
• Admire Soviet-era architecture of pre- and post- World War II perious;
• Enjoy panoramic views of Sparrow Hills from Luzhniki Metro Bridge – MetroMost, the only station of Moscow Metro located over water and the highest station above ground level;
• If lucky, catch a unique «Aquarelle Train» – a wheeled picture gallery, brightly painted with images of peony, chrysanthemums, daisies, sunflowers and each car unit is unique;
• Become an expert at navigating the legendary Moscow Metro system;
• Have fun time with a very friendly local;
• + Atmospheric Metro lunch in Moscow’s the only Metro Diner (included in a 3-hr tour)

Hotel Pick-up

Metro stations:.

Komsomolskaya

Novoslobodskaya

Prospekt Mira

Belorusskaya

Mayakovskaya

Novokuznetskaya

Revolution Square

Sparrow Hills

+ for 3-hour tour

Victory Park

Slavic Boulevard

Vystavochnaya

Dostoevskaya

Elektrozavodskaya

Partizanskaya

Museum of Moscow Metro

• Drop-off  at your hotel, Novodevichy Convent, Sparrow Hills or any place you wish
• + Russian lunch  in Metro Diner with artistic metro-style interior for 3-hour tour

Fun facts from our Moscow Metro Tours:

From the very first days of its existence, the Moscow Metro was the object of civil defense, used as a bomb shelter, and designed as a defense for a possible attack on the Soviet Union.

At a depth of 50 to 120 meters lies the second, the coded system of Metro-2 of Moscow subway, which is equipped with everything you need, from food storage to the nuclear button.

According to some sources, the total length of Metro-2 reaches over 150 kilometers.

The Museum was opened on Sportivnaya metro station on November 6, 1967. It features the most interesting models of trains and stations.

Coffee Ring

The first scheme of Moscow Metro looked like a bunch of separate lines. Listen to a myth about Joseph Stalin and the main brown line of Moscow Metro.

Zodiac Metro

According to some astrologers, each of the 12 stops of the Moscow Ring Line corresponds to a particular sign of the zodiac and divides the city into astrological sector.

Astrologers believe that being in a particular zadiac sector of Moscow for a long time, you attract certain energy and events into your life.

Paleontological finds 

Red marble walls of some of the Metro stations hide in themselves petrified inhabitants of ancient seas. Try and find some!

• Every day each car in  Moscow metro passes  more than 600 km, which is the distance from Moscow to St. Petersburg.
• Moscow subway system is the  5th in the intensity  of use (after the subways of Beijing, Tokyo, Seoul and Shanghai).
• The interval in the movement of trains in rush hour is  90 seconds .

What you get:

• + A friend in Moscow.
• + Private & customized Moscow tour.
• + An exciting pastime, not just boring history lessons.
• + An authentic experience of local life.
• + Flexibility during the walking tour: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
• + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri).
• + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
• + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels.
• + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time in Moscow.

Write your review