t.e.oliver photography

A: Booking your photography tour is simple. Visit my Contact page with your preferred dates and any specific interests. I’ll reply promptly to confirm availability and details.

A: Yes! I specialize in private and custom photo excursions around the Keweenaw Peninsula. Whether you want a solo session or a small group outing tailored to your photography goals, I’ll design an experience just for you.

A: To secure your spot during busy times like fall colors or aurora season, I recommend booking 2–3 weeks ahead. Early booking helps ensure availability and the best experience.

A: I understand that plans can change! You can cancel your tour for a full refund up to 48 hours before your scheduled excursion. For cancellations made within 48 hours, I’m not able to offer an automatic refund because I reserve the date and time just for you. However, if I’m able to fill your spot with another client, I’ll gladly issue a full refund. If something unexpected happens, I’ll always do my best to work with you to reschedule for another date.

A: The excursions I lead are personalized custom experiences for 1-2 persons (more…if you want). I build the experience around your requests and it is an experience fully reserved for you. I will work with you to develop an excursion specific to your goals in locations and on dates that you desire.

Workshops I lead are pre-determined. I will announce the intended subject/activity, location, and date. Workshops are available to the first 6 registrants that sign-up.

A: All skill levels are welcome! Whether you’re a beginner or experienced photographer, my excursions offer tailored guidance to help you improve your skills and enjoy the Keweenaw’s natural beauty.

A: Dress for the weather and bring your camera gear! Before your tour, I’ll send a detailed packing list with essentials like sturdy shoes, layered clothing, snacks, and water.

A: This depends on the excursion booked. But is also dependent of other factors such as road conditions, distance to/between sites, etc…. However, as examples, a half-day excursion usually lasts around 3 hours and a full-day excursions usually lasts about 6 hours.

A: To keep the experience personalized, group sizes are limited to no more than 6 participants. However, since each excursion is typically reserved for a particular group of people (usually all friends and family of each other), I’m able to accommodate more if arrangements are made with me in advance.

A: Yes, please bring your camera and accessories. I’m happy to help you get comfortable with your equipment during our time, whether it’s a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or smartphone.

A: Absolutely! Modern smartphones have powerful cameras, and I’ll guide you in making the most of your device to capture stunning nature and night sky photos. (Although, most wildlife photography is very challenging without telephoto lenses…so, that may be the exception.)

A: Yes! If you want it. I offer hands-on instruction tailored to your experience, covering settings, composition, and exposure to help you take better photos. While not all excursions are photography focused, even then, I’ll happily help anyone who wants me to.

A: Definitely! I provide advice and resources for learning how to develop your images, including guidance for popular software like Lightroom and mobile apps. I’m also willing to lead workshops focused on Lightroom.

A: I primarily explore scenic locations throughout the Keweenaw Peninsula, including forests, lakeshores, and dark sky areas perfect for aurora and night sky photography. However, I am very familiar with the entirety of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and northern Wisconsin; so, I am available for leading excursions and workshops in those areas, as well.

A: Many locations are easy to reach with minimal hiking, but some spots have uneven terrain. I’m happy to discuss your needs and recommend suitable sites.

A: Safety and enjoyment are my priorities. If weather isn’t suitable, I’ll work with you to reschedule or adjust the itinerary.

A: I’m a certified Wilderness First Responder (WFR), and I prepare for changing conditions with training-informed first-aid planning and risk assessment; plus, I provide a safety briefing before each excursion.

A: Please let me know when booking. I’ll do my best to accommodate your needs and ensure a comfortable experience. I also send out a Pre-excursion Questionnaire to help me understand what your personal needs and goals are for our time together and there is space in that form to provide me with details of your needs. I will accommodate and modify itineraries as needed.

A: Cell coverage can be spotty in remote areas. There are many areas within the range of where I offer excursions where there is no cell phone coverage.

A: Pricing varies by tour length and group size. Standard base rates are listed on the Excursions page. Contact me for a customized quote tailored to your plans if they fall outside my standard listings.

A: I accept credit cards, PayPal, Venmo, and bank transfers.

A: Gratuities are not included and never expected. If you feel I’ve earned a gratuity, I will always appreciate it. Please never feel as though it is an expectation, though.

A: Of course! This is why the prices that are listed in the excursion details are for 1-2 people. While companions are certainly welcome, the focus is on the education and experience you have chosen. There are additional surcharges if the number of people for the excursion is more than two.

A: Yes, gift certificates make a great gift for anyone who loves nature and photography. They can be applied toward any of my excursions, workshops, or products.

A: To help keep people safe, I follow all current health guidelines.

A: Feel free to reach out anytime. I’m happy to chat about photography, excursions, and the Keweenaw outdoors.

A: Complete the information requested on my Contact page . I’ll respond promptly.