Why Akari Photo Tours is the Perfect Fit for Your Next Photography Adventure
So, you’re an amateur photographer dreaming of your next big adventure, camera in hand, ready to capture the world in all its beauty. But you’re wondering, how do you choose the right photography tour company? Let us introduce Akari Photo Tours—a company founded by photographers for photographers, with a straightforward mission: to make every tour an unforgettable blend of learning, exploration, and pure photographic joy.
Here’s why we think Akari Photo Tours is the perfect fit for your next photography holiday:
1. Learn from the Best: Expertise, Fun, and a Passion for Photography
When you travel with Akari Photo Tours, you’re guided by a team of seasoned professionals who are not just experts in photography but passionate, dedicated teachers. Founded by photographers Kevin Lisota and Kevin Pepper, along with longtime instructor Jeff Wendorff, Akari Photo Tours combines decades of experience across every style, from wildlife and landscapes to urban and cultural photography. These three aren’t just here to tell you where to stand and what to shoot—they’re here to make sure you have an unforgettable, hands-on learning experience.
The Kevins and Jeff bring a mix of knowledge, humor, and approachability that makes each tour feel like an adventure with friends. You’ll get expert advice tailored to your level, from camera settings to composition, all while enjoying a lighthearted atmosphere. With their guidance, you’ll gain practical skills and the confidence to capture stunning images wherever your travels take you next.
2. Small Groups = Big Learning Opportunities
Unlike crowded, one-size-fits-all tours, Akari specializes in intimate, small-group settings. Why does this matter? Because small groups mean more one-on-one time with your instructor, better access to prime shooting spots, and a chance to ask questions without feeling rushed. Whether you’re an absolute beginner or an intermediate shooter, having a guide who can give you real-time feedback in the field is invaluable. And let’s be honest: photography is just more fun when you’re surrounded by friends rather than a mob!
3. Tailored Experiences to Suit Every Type of Photographer
Akari Photo Tours isn’t just about snapping photos; it’s about crafting experiences that cater to a variety of photographic interests. From snowy landscapes and rugged coastlines to bustling urban centers and lush rainforests, Akari offers workshops for nearly every type of photography:
Wildlife Enthusiasts: Dreaming of photographing bears in Finland or exotic birds in Costa Rica? Akari’s wildlife tours are designed to maximize your chances of capturing that perfect, heart-stopping moment.
Landscape Lovers: For those who crave dramatic, sweeping vistas, Akari offers landscape-focused tours to stunning locations like Iceland and the Canadian Rockies.
Cultural Adventurers: Want to capture the vibrancy of a new culture? Akari’s cultural photography tours take you from the bustling streets of Paris to the remote villages of Mongolia, where you’ll experience and document local customs and traditions.
4. The Perfect Timing for Perfect Photos
Akari Photo Tours takes the guesswork out of choosing the best time to photograph each destination. Timing is everything in photography, and we’ve done the homework so you don’t have to. For instance, our bird photography workshops are planned during the breeding season, when plumage is most vibrant and behaviors are captivating. We’ll have you out in the field at dawn, golden hour, and even at dusk to catch the light just as it hits that perfect note. With Akari, you’re in the right place at the right time to make every shot count.
5. Capture the Story, Not Just the Scene
We believe photography is about more than just technical precision—it’s about storytelling. Our instructors emphasize capturing behaviors, emotions, and interactions that make your photos truly unique. With guidance from our experts, you’ll learn how to observe and anticipate behaviors in animals or expressions in people, helping you capture images that tell a story and go beyond the standard shot. This is especially helpful for amateurs looking to add depth and intrigue to their photos, transforming snapshots into compelling narratives.
6. A Fun, Supportive Environment
Photography should be enjoyable, right? Akari’s tours are designed to be as much about having a good time as they are about learning. Imagine spending your days capturing stunning landscapes and your evenings reviewing photos over shared laughs and stories. And there’s always room for humor on our trips. Whether it’s trying to pronounce a local dish, laughing at that “one that got away” shot, or the challenge of keeping your camera steady while photographing in windy conditions, we guarantee a supportive and friendly atmosphere where every photographer feels welcome.
7. Make Memories (and Friends) That Last
One of the greatest things about joining Akari Photo Tours is the friendships that form along the way. Photography is a shared passion, and being around people who “get it” only makes the experience richer. Whether you’re trading tips, showing off your best shots, or learning from each other, Akari Photo Tours brings people together. And even after the tour, our community stays connected—many of our participants return year after year, not only for the stunning photography but for the camaraderie they’ve found with other photographers.
8. Leave with More Than Just Photos
When you travel with Akari, you’re not just coming home with a memory card full of stunning shots. You’re bringing back invaluable knowledge, friendships, and a newfound confidence in your skills. You’ll leave knowing how to think creatively, how to tackle challenging conditions, and how to get the most out of your camera. These are skills you can carry with you on future trips, making each photographic journey even more rewarding.
9. The Akari Philosophy: Light, Illumination, and Discovery
“Akari” is Japanese for “light” or “illumination,” and that reflects our philosophy on photography tours. It’s not just about seeing a place, but about understanding and capturing the beauty of light in every image. At Akari Photo Tours, we’re not just taking you to beautiful locations; we’re teaching you how to see them in ways you might never have considered. It’s a journey of learning and self-discovery, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
10. Exceptional Value—Without Breaking the Bank
At Akari Photo Tours, we believe that an incredible photography tour shouldn’t mean emptying your wallet. We’re committed to offering top-notch workshops at fair prices, ensuring that our tours are accessible to photographers of all levels. Our value pricing means you get the benefit of expert instruction, immersive experiences, and top locations without the high-end markup. We aim to make every dollar count, from small group sizes and personalized guidance to comfortable accommodations and efficient itineraries. So pack your gear, join us, and experience a high-value photography adventure that won’t break the bank!
Ready to Join Us?
If you’re looking for a photography tour that combines expertise, small groups, great locations, and a whole lot of fun, Akari Photo Tours has a spot just for you. So pack your bags, charge those batteries, and come ready to laugh, learn, and capture the world in a way you’ve never seen before.
Remember: Every photograph tells a story. Let Akari help you tell yours.