Cherry Blossoms at Sunrise

Morning Light on the Cherry Blossoms

The early sun filtering through the blossoms gives them a lovely, golden light, much nicer than the harsh white light of mid-day.

We meet at 6:15 am (sorry!), and then the sun comes up about 6:50 am on the east side of the Tidal Basin. Thus, with the sun behind us, we photograph our way around the Tidal Basin, capturing the Jefferson Memorial, the FDR Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, all framed by blossoms in the early morning sun.

Only Washington Photo Safari clients get an exclusive peek at our secret spot, the “Our Lady of the Blossoms Cherry Tree!”

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is the nation’s greatest springtime celebration. The Festival includes three spectacular weeks and four weekends of tours featuring diverse and creative programming promoting traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit. Visit nationalcherryblossomfestival.org for more information, and find them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Disclaimer: Cherry blossoms safaris this year are subject to cancellation, depending upon any COVID restrictions that may be imposed by Mayor of DC and National Park Service, If safaris are cancelled, a full refund or rain check credit will be provided. Mother Nature has her own way of scheduling the blossoms. Some years they come early in the season, some years they come later. We cannot guarantee full blossoms on the trees on the day of your safari, but we do guarantee very useful tips on travel photography and views of the Tidal Basin that are always pretty.

Open to photographers at any skill level with any kind of camera, film or digital. Non-photographer friends/spouses are welcome to accompany you at no charge.

What to Bring:

• Camera
• Lenses
• Extra memory cards
• Extra charged battery
• Tripod
• Accessories such as filters, remote release
• Weather appropriate clothing