Bend & Central Oregon Landscape Photography Tours
Central Oregon offers some of the most diverse and photogenic landscapes in the American West — all within easy of Bend.
From cascading waterfalls hidden in forested canyons to glassy alpine lakes reflecting volcanic peaks… from ancient lava flows to the quiet movement of the Metolius River… this region is shaped by light, geology, and constantly changing seasonal conditions
Wake Up To Adventure photography tours are designed to place you in these environments when they are most expressive — when atmosphere, weather, and timing align to transform familiar places into something extraordinary.
With minimal travel time and maximum time in the field, these experiences are ideal for photographers who want variety, flexibility, and access to both iconic and lesser-known Central Oregon landscapes.
All tours are personally guided by professional wildlife and landscape photographer Lee Andelson, whose field experience across diverse wild environments shapes every decision in real time — never fixed itineraries.
Ready To Plan Your Tour
Moments That Define the Landscape
Landscapes Within 30–60 Minutes of Bend
Extended-range landscape experiences continue below.
Waterfalls & Deschutes River Corridor
Downtown Bend • Dillon Falls • Shevlin Park • Canyon Reaches
• Multiple river environments in one guided experience
• Waterfalls, rapids, reflections, and canyon perspectives
• Volcanic rock textures shaped by ancient lava flows
• Seasonal variety — mist, ice, foliage, or golden evening light
• Real-time routing based on light, weather, and conditions
Smith Rock Canyon & High Desert Cliffs
Crooked River Canyon • Volcanic Spires • Desert Light • Open Vistas
• Dramatic canyon landscapes carved by the Crooked River
• Towering volcanic rock spires and sweeping desert horizons
• Golden light across textured cliffs and
• Wildlife sightings including raptors, mule deer, and river life
• Real-time routing based on light, weather, and conditions
Cascade Lakes Scenic Highway
Sparks Lake • Todd Lake • High Alpine Basins • Volcanic Peaks
• Iconic alpine lake landscapes in a single guided experience
• Reflections of volcanic peaks and sweeping mountain horizons
• Shoreline textures, forest edges, and open alpine meadows
• Seasonal access with ever-changing light, atmosphere, and water levels
• Real-time routing based on light, weather, and conditions
Tumalo Falls & Upper Canyon Waterfalls
Tumalo Falls • Upper Viewpoints • Forest Canyon • Seasonal Flow
• One of Central Oregon’s most dramatic and photogenic waterfalls
• Multiple perspectives — base, mid-canyon, and elevated viewpoints
• Cascading water framed by volcanic cliffs and forest textures
• Seasonal character — roaring spring flow, mist light, winter ice formations
• Real-time routing based on light, weather, and trail conditions
Metolius River & Sisters Basin
Spring-Fed River • Cascade Peaks • Forest Light • Seasonal Color
• Crystal-clear river corridors flowing through old-growth forest
• Views of Three Sisters and surrounding Cascade mountain landscapes
• Reflections, moving water, and layered forest compositions
• Seasonal transitions from wildflowers and lush greens to vibrant fall color
• Real-time routing based on light, weather, and conditions
Night Photography Experience
Starlight • Moonlight • Long Exposure • Atmospheric Landscapes
• Designed around curiosity, creativity, and the night itself
• Learn to photograph stars, motion, light trails, and ambient glow
• Landscapes transformed by darkness, silence, and changing sky conditions
• Flexible locations chosen for the best night visibility and atmosphere
• Real-time routing based on sky clarity, moon phase, and weather
Private small-group experiences · Personalized field guidance · Real-time location decisions · All skill levels welcome