Summer Photography in the Smokies — Nye Simmons

Summer sees a progression of flowering shrubs like rhododendron and mountain laurel and as those fade, flowers in Cades Cove make attractive subjects as do the crimson bee balm and golden glow among others. The lower and mid elevations river drainages are great locations until about mid-July when the meadows of Cades Cove and the higher elevations come into their own. Clearing summer thunderstorms can give dramatic light if you are so lucky

Iridescent moss following a wet spell along Cosby Creek.

Rosebay rhododendron bloom along Big Creek, here following heavy rain.

Clearing storm in late light at Ben Morton Overlook.

The Smokies are a prime photographic destination in spring and fall, but not so much in summer. It’s really more of a local’s thing, or an add-on to a family vacation in the area. Don’t leave the camera behind or the locals will use up all the light!