Photography Program
Beginning in 2026, our farm is proud to launch a new Photography Program at Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard. We’re hoping to bring together photography professionals and creatives who share a passion for capturing the natural beauty of Western North Carolina.
Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard offers a uniquely picturesque setting that changes with the seasons—from vibrant spring blossoms to lush summer greenery, rich autumn colors, and peaceful winter landscapes. This makes our farm an exceptional outdoor venue for a wide range of photography, including family portraits, engagement sessions, weddings, branding shoots, artistic projects, and more.
Through this program, photographers gain access to the farm, along with opportunities to collaborate, host sessions, and connect with clients in a scenic, welcoming environment. We aim to foster a supportive community while also providing visitors with high-quality, memorable photography experiences set against one of the region’s most beautiful backdrops.
Photography Session Types
Single: 1 person
Couple: 2 people
Family: 3 – 10 people
Large Group: 10+ people
Maximum group size is 20 people. If you would like to have more people than this, please email us. Additional fees will apply.
Spring/Summer Info
Pricing:
$100 per hour per photographer
Exclusive access to photography area on the farm
Dates:
Summer: June 12 & 13, July 24 & 25: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Time Slots Available:
– 1 hour time slot
If you need more than 1 hour, you must reserve another time slot. It is $100 per hour.
Fall Info
Pricing:
$250 for an all day pass or $100 for a 2 hour pass
You do NOT have exclusive access to the farm, as this will be during our normal business hours during our fall season
Dates:
Most days of the week when we open for the season in August, September, and October
Time Slots Available:
– Day pass access from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
– Time slots for 2 hour passes are 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
How to Book
To book your photography session as a professional photographer, please click the button below to select and reserve your time. Payment is due in full at the time of booking.
If you have any questions check our FAQ below. If you still can’t find an answer, please email us.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if there is inclement weather for the date I booked my photography session?
If there is inclement weather on the day of your photography session, we refund you 100% of the cost. This will be determined by Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard on the day of the shoot. You are welcome to reschedule if time slots are available!
Do you offer refunds?
Our photography sessions are non-refundable, unless there is inclement weather and we will refund you 100% of the cost.
Can I reschedule my photography session after I have already booked?
You can reschedule your photography session as long as we have availability!
Can I book multiple sessions in one day?
For spring and summer photography sessions, each reservation includes a 1-hour time slot. If you need additional time, you will need to reserve additional session slots at $100 per hour.
During the fall season, photographers may choose between a 2-hour photography pass during designated time slots or an all-day photography pass valid during regular business hours.
How many people can come with me to help out during the photography session?
We ask that you only bring one additional assistant during your photography session. If you need more than one assistant, please email us.
Are there any restrictions on what I can bring?
Prohibited items include but are not limited to fireworks, firearms, or anything that poses a liability.
How accessible is the orchard?
During our spring and summer season, the area where the photography sessions will be taking place is relatively flat. The roads are gravel and the parking area is close by to the photo spots. During our fall season, you will have access to the whole farm which includes areas that could be steep and you would not be able to drive to. Please keep in mind our farm is located in the mountains.
How many people (subjects) can I have at the photography session?
When you book your photography session, you will need to indicate the group size. You will choose from single (1 person), couple (2 people), family (3 – 10 people), or a large group (10+ people).
Farm Map
