Synchronous Firefly Photography Workshop

June 1-5, 2026

Overview

Join me for one of my favorite events of the year… firefly season in the Smokies! The highlight of this workshop is photographing the world-famous synchronous firefly display, a rare natural wonder that happens only once a year and only for about two weeks. After nightfall, beneath a dense canopy of old-growth trees, thousands of fireflies flash in unison, filling the forest. Believe me, it is unlike anything you’ve ever seen… and that is just the beginning! Many species of firefly are active throughout the park at different times and in different places, and we’ll be searching for them all!

We’ll balance fieldwork with classroom sessions on post-processing, where you’ll learn how to bring your raw images to life and create compelling, print-worthy photographs that capture the magic of the fireflies.

In addition to photographing fireflies each night, we will also explore some the park’s most iconic landscapes… from tranquil rivers, to grand mountain vistas, and the wildlife-rich meadows of Cades Cove.

• Number of Attendees: 8
• Number of Instructors: 2
• Level of Difficulty (fitness requirements): Easy-Moderate

Schedule

June 1: Arrival & First Night
We’ll gather in the afternoon at our base in Townsend for an opening presentation on capturing and processing firefly images. After that, we’ll pack bagged dinners and head out to experience our first night of firefly photography.

June 2 – 4: Immersed in Fireflies
The heart of the workshop. Each evening we’ll head to a new location to photograph synchronous and other species of firefly, and during the days we’ll explore some of the park’s most iconic landscapes, adding variety to your portfolio. Our midday classroom sessions we’ll focus on techniques for processing firefly images, including layering exposures in Photoshop, and refining your vision so you return home not just with images, but with the confidence to do it on your own.

June 5: Farewell to the Smokies
We’ll rise early for one last sunrise session before saying our goodbyes. You’ll leave with unforgettable memories, new skills, and a collection of photographs that capture the magic of fireflies.

This schedule is tentative. Based on weather conditions we may change things up a bit. We will still meet in the classroom each day and will go out for fireflies nightly. Picnic dinners might get replaced with breaks.

About the Fireflies

Since peak firefly activity can be unpredictable, we set our dates based on seven years of firsthand experience viewing and photographing them. If nature’s timing shifts, we’ll adapt by focusing on traditional landscape photography or chasing other firefly species that emerge at different times. While we’ve never had to fully pivot, the possibility is there. It’s the fleeting nature of this event that makes it so special!

Go HERE for more info on synchronous fireflies and the events surrounding this unique natural phenomenon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the fitness requirements?

In most areas we visit, the terrain is very easy to navigate. Some people find navigating in the dark under the dim, red light of a headlamp difficult. Using red light rather than bright white light is necessary for both the welfare of the fireflies and the enjoyment of other people.

What equipment do you recommend I bring?

A Digital SLR or mirrorless camera is your best option. My favorite lenses are my 14-35, 24-105, 70-200, and 100-400. I bring two cameras to capture multiple setups of fireflies. You will also need a laptop with Adobe Photoshop installed. Photoshop is necessary for making images worthy of the fireflies’ display… don’t worry, we’ll show you how.

• DSLR or mirrorless camera
• A wide angle zoom such as 14-35 or 24-70 on a full frame sensor.
• Telephoto lens for detail work and wildlife
• Circular polarizing filter for each lens
• A sturdy tripod and head
• Camera backpack with rain cover
• Rainproof covering for your camera and lens
• Laptop Computer with Adobe Photoshop installed
• Card Reader
• Extra Batteries
• Extra Memory Cards
• Secondary camera and tripod for multiple firefly setups (optional)

What about transportation?

Everyone is responsible for their own transportation. That said, we will require carpooling for some locations. Parking tags are required in GSMNP and can be purchased HERE. Parking tags are also available at automated kiosks throughout the park.

What about lodging?

Our classroom space is at the Tremont Lodge & Resort in Townsend, we highly recommend staying there or near by. After registration, you will be provided a discount code for accommodations at the lodge. Townsend also keeps us close to most of our locations, staying there will keep your drive time down before and after long days. Camping is also an option. If you are interested, please let us know and we will contact you about booking a site.

What should I wear?

We will be on our feet for long periods during our firefly field trips and will 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, so a comfortable pair of shoes is recommended. I also recommend full rain gear: jacket, pants and umbrella. Showers can be brief, so if we’re out we will stand in the rain and wait for it to pass. Hydration is so important. We will have bottled water but please consider bringing your own water bottle.

• Water bottle
• Headlamp with red beam
• Rain gear
• Umbrella
• Insect and tick repellent
• Sunscreen
• Water shoes or sandals for creekin’
• Camp chair for firefly viewing (if you want to carry it)

What happens if the weather doesn’t cooperate?

The weather will not cooperate. That said, being out in bad weather usually leads to great photo opportunities! Rain and clouds can add mood and provide even lighting to work under. Rain showers are somewhat common this time of year. If we are in the field and a shower passes we will wait it out, so be prepared with rain gear.

Will there be bugs?

Yes, fireflies! Biting insects are not much of a problem at this time of year. We may run into no-see-ums here and there but they are not overwhelming.

Price: $2195

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A $500 non-refundable deposit is due at the time of booking, the full payment is due by April 1, 2026.

Included in the Price:

• One-on-one field instruction from two instructors
• Classroom space
• Daily Photoshop tutorials
• Dinner the first night (sandwiches & salad)
• Picnic dinners
• Snacks throughout

Attendees are responsible for:

• Personal accommodations
• All meals (other than what’s listed above)
• Transportation
• Parking fees
• Airfare and other travel expenses
• Travel Insurance: www.squaremouth.com

Cancelations:

Cancelations made by April 1, 2026 will receive a refund for any amount paid over $1000. Cancelations made after April 1, 2026 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. We cannot give out credit for cancelations. This is an expensive trip to run so our cancelation policy is non-negotiable. We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance: www.squaremouth.com

Acknowledgement of Risk:

You will be required to sign an Acknowledgement of Risk upon arrival.

Questions?

Contact us HERE.

To view our entire Fireflies & the Great Smoky Mountains gallery, go HERE.