I wish to remind my followers of the Crystal Hermitage Gardens as a photography destination. Here, amidst the rolling hills of Nevada City, California, a symphony of colors, scents, and textures unfolds, offering a visual feast for the senses and a haven for photographers seeking to capture the beauty of spring.
The first thing you need to do is to buy a ticket! Go to the website then choose your time and day. This year, the season for the public goes up to May 4. They typically offer two photography tours each season, during flowering peak. You can also go during visiting hours and take photos, but if you do, please pay attention to their photography guidelines.
Location and Parking
Please note that GPS navigation systems may vary, so it’s recommended to have a map or directions handy. The roads leading to Crystal Hermitage Gardens are scenic and well-maintained, offering a pleasant drive through the lush countryside. Crystal Hermitage Gardens is: on 14618 Tyler Foote Road in Nevada City, CA 95959. From Nevada City, Head south on CA-49 S/Golden Center Freeway, Turn left onto N Bloomfield Road, then Continue onto Tyler Foote Road. Crystal Hermitage Gardens will be on your left. From Grass Valley, Take CA-174 N to Tyler Foote Road in Nevada City. Turn right onto Tyler Foote Road. Crystal Hermitage Gardens will be on your right. Upon arriving at Crystal Hermitage Gardens, you’ll find convenient parking facilities available for visitors.
What to expect
The gardens are on a hill, with the tulips planted at every level. And because it’s on a hill, expect to climb some steps. There is a gazebo, a small pond, a water fountain, and a small church. It is possible to compose landscapes with those structures using the paths as leading lines, as in the featured photograph. However, landscape photography there is difficult at best, particularly on sunny days.
Above, a view of the path from the lower gardens to the upper gardens. If you want to purchase a print of this image, or other images taken in the same location, click here.
When at Ananda, I have found more satisfaction in close-up images of “expressive tulips”, or small details of the garden composed with the flowers (see below).
Tips for Spring Photography at Ananda
There is more to the gardens than landscape. For those planning a photography expedition to Crystal Hermitage Gardens or any springtime location, here are a few tips to make the most of your experience:
- Timing is Key: Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for capturing vibrant colors and soft shadows, so chose your timing wisely. An overcast day may be best for some types of landscape and close-ups of flowers.
- Get Up Close: Don’t be afraid to get close to your subjects to capture intricate details and textures. (click on the photographs below to see a larger version or purchase a print).
3. Compose with man-made elements:
Conclusion
Spring photography at Crystal Hermitage Gardens is a celebration of nature’s renewal, a symphony of colors, light, and textures that beckons photographers to capture its fleeting beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an amateur enthusiast, this botanical oasis offers endless opportunities to hone your skills, unleash your creativity, and immerse yourself in the magic of spring. Don’t be afraid to be creative! There is no right and wrong in photography, and there is a plethora of in-camera tricks and post-processing apps that can help to create unique pieces for your portfolio.
So grab your camera, pack your lenses, and venture into the enchanting realm of Crystal Hermitage Gardens, where every click of the shutter brings to life the timeless allure of spring.
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Wall Art landscapes and miscellaneous
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It is all about the light 
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