CNPA upcoming events

Triangle: Frank Schwartz Water Gardens Creations (June 20, 2026)

Sat, 20 Jun 2026 12:00:00 GMT

This is our annual outing to Frank Schwartz Water Garden Creations. Photograph water lilies and other aquatic plants along with frogs and dragon flies. The gardens are generally in the shade until mid to late morning. Bring a variety of lenses not just your macro lens. Strongly suggest you bring along lots of water, sun screen, hats, and bug spray. You'll be asked for a $5 contribution at the event.

Low Country: Albert Heacox (June 23, 2026)

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT

Huguenot Beach Outing. Royal Terns, Laughing Gulls, and Brown Pelicans are on the beach. They will be attending to their chicks which makes for some exciting photography. There is a 5 dollar entry fee per car to the park. Restrooms are available in the park. Things you will need: A long lens, Sunscreen, Something to drink, Shoes for walking in sand and water, A hat, tripod or monopod. Contact Richard Matheny for additional information
richardmatheny1@gmail.com

Triad: Reynolda Gardens (June 27, 2026)

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Triad Photography Outing Reynolda Gardens
Date: Saturday, June 27
Time: 9:30 AM
Location: Reynolda Gardens, Winston-Salem, NC
Join your fellow CNPA Triad members for a relaxing morning of photography at the beautiful Reynolda Gardens. This 129-acre horticultural treasure offers an abundance of photographic opportunities, including colorful summer blooms, formal gardens, winding pathways, water features, architectural details, textures, patterns, and plenty of opportunities for close-up and macro photography.
Whether your passion is flowers, abstracts, nature details, landscapes, or creative compositions, Reynolda Gardens provides an inspiring setting to practice your skills, explore new techniques, and enjoy the company of fellow photographers.
Recommended Equipment
Macro lens for capturing flowers, insects, and intricate garden details
Polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance colors and contrast
Neutral Density (ND) filters for creative long exposure effects around water features and moving foliage
Tripod or monopod for stability during close up work and long exposures
Wide angle or standard zoom lens for garden scenes and environmental compositions
This outing is suitable for photographers of all skill levels. Bring your camera, your creativity, and be prepared to slow down and discover the beauty found in the details.
We will gather at the entrance to Reynolda Gardens at 9:30 AM before heading out to explore the grounds. We look forward to seeing you there!

Myrtle Beach: Mary Roberts Preston Sunflowers and Zinnias (June 30, 2026)

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Prior to our sunflower and Zinnia flower outing at Southern Palmetto Farms, Mary Roberts Preston will share her unique and artistic approach, giving us a fresh perspective on photographing flowers we've shot many times. The farm tentatively expects to host our outing on July 7 or 8.

Upstate: Blue Ridge Parkway (July 10, 2026)

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Overnight Outing on the Blue Ridge Parkway to photograph Sunset, Miky Way and Sunrise

High Country: Elk in Cataloochee Valley (September 19, 2026)

Sat, 19 Sep 2026 11:00:00 GMT

Join the High Country Region for an outing to photograph Elk in the Cataloochee Valley near Cherokee, NC. We will be visiting during the start of the rut season when antlered bulls (males) bugle and fight for domination and the right to breed with the cows. We'll meet at 7am at the parking area near the Chapel. Bring a long lens for closer views of the action (park regulations require keeping a distance of 50 yards of Elk). A second camera or wider lens is also recommended for capturing dramatic environmental images of the Elk in their surroundings.

We are grateful to High Country Region photographer Lisa Wilmoth for leading this outing!

Be advised that portions of the road leading to the Valley are unpaved and winding, so plan for some extra driving time for safety.

Here's a Google Map link showing the route from a waypoint near Waynesville.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/QQhWKUwv1zyRET7K7

For those wishing to stay overnight before and/or after the outing, Waynesville and Maggie Valley are good options.

Questions? Email high-country-coordinator@cnpa.org