Photography Outing to the Cheekwood Gardens

Cheekwood Gardens
Sign Up - Hold Harmless

Join us for a spectacular morning at Cheekwood Estate & Gardens on Saturday, April 11, as we document the height of the spring season. This year’s theme, Red, White & Blooms, features a stunning display of over 250,000 red and white tulips, complemented by vibrant purple-blue violas and fragrant hyacinths.

Beyond the main gardens, photograph the delicate white and pink blossoms in the Carell Dogwood Garden and search for native treasures like Virginia bluebells and trillium in the Howe Garden. The Interventions exhibit in the Mansion’s period rooms features the metal and cast glass sculptures of Karen LaMonte which explore the interplay of drapery, light and the absence of the female form.

Consider challenging yourself with these techniques:

  • Master the Macro: Get up close to capture the intricate textures of tulip petals or the hidden details of a dogwood blossom.
  • The “Low-Angle” Perspective: Don’t be afraid to get low! Shooting from the flower’s eye level creates a much more immersive and dramatic “forest of flowers” feel.
  • Play with Bokeh: Use a wide aperture (like f/2.8 or f/4) to create a soft, creamy background, making a single colorful bloom pop against the greenery.
  • Harness Backlighting: Position yourself so the sun is behind the flowers; the light filtering through the translucent petals for a beautiful, glowing effect.
  • Frame Your Subject: Use overhanging branches or blurred foreground leaves to “frame” the mansion or a specific garden path for added depth.

Whether you’re bringing a dedicated macro lens or just your favorite walk-around zoom, there should be no shortage of inspiration.

  • Tickets: $21-26 depending on type with options for garden only or including mansion – https://cheekwood.org/tickets/
  • Members enjoy complimentary admission and parking for one car. 
  • Advance tickets required.
  • Location: Off Highway 100 or Belle Meade Blvd., about 23 min from Otter Creek Church.
  • Parking: Parking lot at entrance, $5 per car to park, purchase with admission.

Optional Group Lunch – Sam’s Place Belle Meade, 6051 Hwy 100 in Westgate Shopping Center
Casual American food – Burgers, salads, pizza and entrees
https://www.samsplace.net/belle-meade/#belle-meade-full-menu

Family members: Family members are welcome to accompany you. We just need a Hold Harmless Agreement for each one.

Don’t forget to complete the online Hold Harmless Agreement (https://form.jotform.com/233284043176050)

Overview

The Nashville Zoo, a perennial favorite, is home to over 3,700 animals representing more than 350 species. In March, the temperate weather should keep the animals active and alert, rather than lethargic from the heat. Keep an eye out for newly arrived babies! You might spot Red Pandas and Andean Bears climbing in their habitats or Tigers more visible in their exhibit.

Also – Don’t miss the NEW Leopard Forest which features the endangered Amur leopard and the return of the giraffes. This area includes an “overhead bridge” where leopards can walk above you – perfect for dramatic low-angle shots as well as a leopard-viewing building and numerous observation points.

We will meet at 9:00 AM to take advantage of the soft morning light, which is flattering for capturing the fur and feathers of the animals. Bring your telephoto lens to photograph all your favorite animals. Practice portraits and close ups or perhaps use fast shutter speeds to capture shy ones. Work with depth of field to isolate your subject. Don’t miss the Kangaroo Kickabout, where you can try extreme close-ups for wide-angle “environmental portraits.”

Some technique tips:

  • The Fence Vanishing Act: Set your camera to Aperture Priority and use the widest aperture. Get your lens as close to the mesh as possible; the shallow depth of field will make the fence disappear.
  • Nail the Eyes: If your camera has Animal Eye AF, turn it on. If not, use Spot Focus and lock onto the eye. A photo of a tiger is just “okay,” but one with sharp eyes is a masterpiece.
  • Eliminate Glass Reflections: Reflections can ruin photos of reptiles and fish. Use a collapsible rubber lens hood and press it against the glass to seal out light behind you, making the glass disappear. If needed, try Lightroom’s Remove Reflections feature.

Additional “animal” encounter – Try your hand at photos of life-size dinosaurs!

Dino Trek features over 20 animatronic dinosaurs, some towering over 20 feet tall and weighing more than 5,000 pounds. Located along a hidden path near the Historic Home, nearly 50 dinosaurs await. Tickets for Dino Trek are an additional $5 and can be purchased nearby or at the ticket desk.

Any questions, contact the Outings coordinator.

Admission Details

Nashville Zoo Animals

Admission: $29, Tickets (free for Zoo members)

Location: Nolensville Pike, about 17 min from Otter Creek Church.

Parking: Parking lot at entrance, $10 per car to park (free for members).

Family members: Family members are welcome to accompany you. We just need a Hold Harmless Agreement for each guest.

  • Optional Group Lunch

 – Edessa Restaurant
 –  3802 Nolensville Pike
 – View menu