THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Explore Northeast Pennsylvania’s iconic waterfalls and covered bridges this fall with expert photography guidance. Join a multi-day safari capturing breathtaking sunrises and vibrant autumn landscapes at Ricketts Glen State Park.
Explore Northeast Pennsylvania’s iconic waterfalls and covered bridges this fall with expert photography guidance. Join a multi-day safari capturing breathtaking sunrises and vibrant autumn landscapes at Ricketts Glen State Park.
Book with Washington Photo Safari
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Washington Photo Safari · Washington, District of Columbia
Northeast Pennsylvania offers a late autumn escape where vibrant fall foliage meets iconic covered bridges and roaring waterfalls, an ideal playground for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This multi-day photography safari, guided by acclaimed photographer Sean Quintilian, invites adventurers to immerse themselves in the region's rugged beauty with expert instruction alongside breathtaking scenery.
Centered around Ricketts Glen State Park, a renowned spot for its 22 named waterfalls cascading through ancient Appalachian forest, this trip offers more than just hikes — it’s a chance to witness water carving out rock in ways that have shaped this land for ages. Amid the fiery palette of maples, oaks, and birches, the waterfalls like Ganoga Falls and High Rock create dynamic, living murals to capture on film or sensor. Early mornings start with remarkable sunrises at nearby covered bridges in small towns surrounding the park, where the warmth of golden light filters over wooden trusses centuries old, telling a story of Americana entwined with nature’s transition.
What sets this experience apart is the combination of strenuous yet rewarding hiking with targeted photography coaching. Sean Quintilian provides hands-on tips for shooting in variable light, mastering slow shutter techniques on waterfalls, and composing compelling landscapes that highlight the interplay between light and autumn color. He cultivates a group spirit among the dozen participants, turning each trek into a collective quest for the perfect shot.
The itinerary balances ambition and awe: long hiking sections demand good physical fitness but reward with access to less crowded viewpoints where the water tumbles unspoiled through mossy stones and fallen leaves. Exploring beyond the park, stops at historic bridges offer architectural interest and an opportunity to frame local culture amid Pennsylvania’s fall grandeur.
Passing through this region means engaging with landscapes shaped by glaciation and centuries of human craftsmanship, making it a destination unlike many others in the Northeast. From the peaceful streams threading through dense woodlands to the rough granite outcrops around the waterfalls, every step offers a blend of adventure and artistry.
Whether you’re aiming to improve your nature photography or simply want to witness fall’s fiery peak amid some of Pennsylvania’s most scenic backdrops, this safari is an immersive journey into the state’s heart. Washington, PA, is the nearest city to base yourself, offering the convenience needed for multi-day exploration.
For photographers and hikers seeking a purposeful outdoor challenge this autumn, the Waterfalls and Covered Bridges photography safari stands out as an unmissable experience that captures the spirit of Northeast Pennsylvania’s natural heritage.
No, beginners are welcome. Expert Sean Quintilian provides instruction suitable for all skill levels.
Transportation to and from the meeting point is not included, so plan your travel accordingly.
Group sizes are limited to 12 participants for a personalized experience.
Meals are not included; bring your own or plan to dine locally.
Wear sturdy boots, bring layered clothing, water, snacks, and your camera gear.
The hikes are strenuous and require good physical fitness to navigate uneven terrain and elevation changes.
Washington Photo Safari is a Bowie, Maryland-based photography outfitter that organizes guided photo workshops and safaris across the Washington, D.C., and Mid-Atlantic region. The company offers hands-on sessions focused on aerial drone photography, smartphone techniques, moonrise and twilight shooting, architectural and botanical subjects, museum interiors, historic railroad equipment, and food photography. Instructors include FAA-certified pilot Travone Sukie for drone workshops, smartphone expert Elody Crimi, Marine Corps spouse Angela McCrary for the Quantico museum tour, award-winning and longtime photographer E. David Luria for multiple moonrise and cathedral safaris, and photographer Mark for the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Museum event. Trip formats range from closed‑to‑public interior safaris and museum-based workshops to outdoor landmark and garden sessions; listed durations are typically two to three hours. Several experiences emphasize regulatory and safety guidance, such as FAA rules during drone operation, while others provide practical composition, lighting, and editing instruction tailored to camera or smartphone users. Washington Photo Safari presents opportunities for photographers at varying skill levels to practice in controlled, guided environments and to access locations that may not be open to general visitors. Trip descriptions note when sessions include specialized access (for example, interior cathedral photography) and when instruction covers professional transition topics like marketing and income streams for photographers. All trip listings identify the guide and the primary focus so prospective participants can match experience objectives and skill level before booking. Guides list safety, access details, and equipment recommendations in each trip description. Advance booking is advised for limited-access safaris and timing.
Book with Washington Photo Safari