September 14th – 17th, 2026 | Asheville, North Carolina
Hosted by NAPCP’s 2024 Photographer of the Year and NAPCP Mentor, Valerie Eidson
Discover breathtaking locations, fresh mountain air, unwind, and connect with one another – we’re excited to share all the details for this extraordinary getaway and welcome everyone to join us!
Hosted by 2024 NAPCP Photographer of the Year and 2026 NAPCP Mentor Valerie Eidson of Valerie Eidson Photography, this Asheville Getaway is designed to inspire, restore, and deepen community through creativity, learning, and meaningful connection. It’s not a conference, workshop, or vacation—it’s a curated experience that blends education, service, and creative exploration in a way that feels intentional and unforgettable.
We’ll experience photographing at the iconic Biltmore Estate, enjoy a styled shootout at DayTrip where you’ll learn to use studio lighting hands-on, and gather for brainstorming sessions with fellow photographers. You’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at Valerie’s workflow and see how she approaches editing to create her signature style.
And in true NAPCP spirit, we’ll come together for a service project to give back to the local community as they continue to recover after Hurricane Helene.
The cost of this NAPCP Getaway is $950 for NAPCP Members and $1150 for Non-Members. Registration will open to all on March 30th. There are a limited number of seats available so make sure you sign up for our elist to get access to early sign ups!
NAPCP Getaway Highlights
Welcome Reception: A warm welcome reception in downtown Asheville to kick off our Getaway. (Included: Location TBD)
Breakfast Brainstorm / Roundtable: Grab coffee and breakfast during our no-pressure roundtable to swap ideas, talk through challenges, and leave with fresh solutions. (Each attendee will handle their own bill)
Lunch + Biltmore Experience: Enjoy a self-pay lunch, spend the afternoon exploring the Biltmore house and grounds, then wrap with an evening shootout with a senior or styled model.
Service Project in Asheville: We’ll spend part of our Getaway giving back together through a hands-on service project supporting the local community as they continue to recover and rebuild after Hurricane Helene.
Day Trip Styled Shoot: Create bold, retro images in an iconic 1970s-themed bar while learning how to use studio lighting from Valerie.
Editing Session: After the shoot at DayTrip, we’ll gather for an editing session where Valerie walks you through her workflow so you can see exactly how she brings the images to life.
Group Dinners in Downtown Asheville: Enjoy local cuisine together at vibrant downtown Asheville restaurants, building connection and community. (Each attendee will handle their own bill)
Explore Downtown Asheville and the River Arts District: Shop local, discover galleries and murals, and soak up the city’s creative energy.
Enjoy an array of snacks, beverages, and delightful surprises sprinkled throughout your journey: We're excited to keep the energy high and spirits even higher!
Forge lasting connections: Meet a vibrant community of photographers and experience dynamic networking opportunities.
NAPCP Getaway Details
This NAPCP Getaway in Asheville is designed to inspire, rejuvenate, and strengthen bonds within our community. We’ll soak in the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and iconic Asheville sights with a flexible itinerary that leaves room for downtime, creativity, and connection — including shootouts, brainstorming sessions, and meaningful conversations with fellow NAPCP members and photographers.
** Please note that this schedule is tentative and could change at any time. **
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 14
Arrive at the Hotel via Uber / Lyft / Shuttle
Explore Downtown Asheville, NC
Welcome Reception (Location TBD)
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15
Breakfast on Your Own or at the Hotel
Group Service Project in Asheville – TBD
Lunch at Biltmore (attendees will pay for their own meal)
Afternoon Exploring at Biltmore
Evening Shootout at Biltmore with Senior or Styled Model
Dinner in Downtown Asheville on Your Own
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16
Breakfast Brainstorm / Roundtable (attendees will pay for their own meal)
Styled Shoot at DayTrip with Valerie
Lunch on Your Own
Editing Session with Valerie Eidson
Dinner on Your Own
LaZoom Comedy Tour
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17
Breakfast on Your Own or at the Hotel
Pack Up, Say Goodbye and Head to Airport
Travel and Booking Information
FLIGHT INFORMATION AND TRAVEL DATES
We recommend flying in the afternoon on Monday, September 14th and staying until the morning of Thursday, September 17th. The closest airport to Asheville is Asheville Regional Airport – Airport code AVL.
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
The registration fee for this NAPCP Getaway is $950 for NAPCP Members ($1150 for non-members) which includes the following:
Welcome Reception – this will take place the night of the 14th after everyone arrives. Restaurant is TBD.
Participate in a hands-on service project – We will be supporting the local community as they continue to recover and rebuild after Hurricane Helene. (Priceless)
Admission to the Biltmore Estate – We will spend the afternoon exploring the Biltmore House before our styled shoot that evening. (Valued at $90 per person)
Morning Mastermind Roundtable Discussion – Each attendee will bring one question to discuss with the group the morning of the 16th. (Priceless)
Beautifully coordinated Senior shootout at the Biltmore – This will be led by NAPCP’s 2024 Photographer of the Year and NAPCP Mentor, Valerie Eidson (Valued at $475)
Studio light instruction and shootout with Valerie at DayTrip – a 1970’s themed bar in Asheville (Valued at $525)
Editing session with Valerie Eidson – Following the shootout at DayTrip (Valued at $375)
LaZoom Comedy Tour – A fun and interactive comedy bus ride through downtown where you BYOB. (Valued at $50 per person)
Snacks, Beverages, etc. – Enjoy this and other delightful surprises throughout the event! (Priceless)
Networking opportunities with fellow photographers (Priceless)
LODGING
Our group has a room block at the Cambria Hotel in Downtown Asheville. Although our guests are welcome to stay at another hotel if they choose, we will be meeting up at the Cambria on our travel days as well as utilizing the space for gathering together and connecting with one another.
FEES – Room rates in our block start at $199 USD per night (not included in your registration fee). Once you book your getaway, make sure you join our Asheville Getaway group on WhatsApp where you will be able to connect with other travelers and find a roommate if you would like to split the cost of your stay with another attendee. Our hotel rate includes continental breakfast.
BOOKING – To get our special room rate, please click here to make your reservation at the Cambria Hotel. Make sure to book your hotel stay before our room block closes!
TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION
Transportation throughout our time in Asheville is not included. Most places we will be visiting are close enough to the hotel to walk. If you are concerned about walking or spending extra on ride share vehicles, we suggest sharing a ride with other attendees or even renting a car for your time in Asheville with others to lower the cost.
WHAT TO PACK
Typically, the weather in Asheville in mid September ranges from upper 70s to low 50s. Please keep this in mind when packing your bags! We will share more information about what to pack closer to the event using WhatsApp, but here are some basic items we want to suggest:
Camera Gear – There are no requirements gear-wise. Our group will be participating in multiple shootouts during the Getaway. Please bring whatever gear you’d like!
A Few Nicer Outfits – We plan to do a few group dinners throughout the trip and the restaurants may be a bit more upscale. Please plan accordingly.
Giving Back Together – Hearts of Service
Hearts of Service is a core part of what makes this Asheville Getaway different — and it reflects what we believe in as an organization. Asheville was devastated by Hurricane Helene, and while the city’s beauty and creative spirit remain, many families, small businesses, and neighborhoods are still navigating the very real aftermath and the long road to recovery. At NAPCP, we believe community matters — and that when we have the opportunity to gather in a place that has been impacted, we should also show up with compassion and contribute in a tangible way.
That’s why we’ll come together for a group service project during the Getaway, partnering with a local need in Asheville as they continue to rebuild. This is more than an activity on the itinerary — it’s an intentional moment of purpose, connection, and care. You’ll work alongside fellow photographers to lend a helping hand, serve with heart, and experience the kind of meaningful togetherness that stays with you long after the trip ends. We hope you leave Asheville not only creatively inspired and refreshed, but also proud of the way our community showed up — with generosity, humility, and a shared commitment to giving back.
WANT TO JOIN US IN ASHEVILLE?
Registration opens to everyone on March 30. Want early access? Join our exclusive Getaway E-List!
Additional Information
WHO IS THIS GETAWAY PERFECT FOR
Photographers craving creative renewal
Business owners wanting deeper connection (not surface networking)
Those ready to elevate their portfolio with intentional styled shoots
Community-minded creatives who value giving back
THIS MAY NOT BE FOR YOU IF
You’re looking for a large conference-style event
You prefer rigid schedules with no flexibility
You don’t enjoy hands-on participation
WHAT YOU’LL LEAVE WITH
Portfolio-ready images
A refined understanding of studio lighting
A clearer editing workflow
New friendships + accountability connections
Renewed creative confidence
CANCELLATION POLICY
Due to the nature of this event, all payments are non-refundable but transferable for a $50 fee until August 1, 2026.
WHY VALERIE
Valerie isn’t just Photographer of the Year—she’s a mentor who helps you grow creatively and practically.
She’s known for elevated, intentional imagery and a signature edit that’s refined, cohesive, and timeless. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at her workflow, her editing approach, and the creative decisions that bring consistency and polish to a portfolio—plus real business insight you can apply immediately.
And this one is personal: Valerie is from Asheville, and she and her family were personally impacted by Hurricane Helene, which makes this Getaway—and our giving-back component—especially meaningful.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is not included in registration?
Flights, lodging, transportation and most meals.
Will I be able to use the imagery from the shootouts in my personal portfolio?
Yes! While images from shootouts can not be used in NAPCP Photography competitions, they are great for adding new work to your portfolio.
Do I need to bring a laptop with me to the Getaway?
It’s up to you whether or not you’d like to bring a laptop along on your trip. We do not require it, but some people may want to bring it along for our Mastermind Roundtable Discussion or the editing session with Valerie.
Do I have to participate in the service project?
Participation in the service project is highly encouraged, because it’s an important part of the heart behind this Getaway and how we give back to Asheville as they continue to recover after Hurricane Helene. That said, we understand everyone’s comfort level, physical ability, and personal circumstances are different. If you’re unable to participate, you’re welcome to opt out and use that time for rest or downtime.
Can I get a cheaper ticket price if I don’t participate in all parts of the event?
No — the ticket price remains the same even if you choose not to participate in every part of the Getaway. Your registration secures your spot and covers the overall experience, planning, and group programming for the event. We’ve intentionally built in flexibility, so you can join the activities that feel best for you while still being part of the community and the full Getaway experience.
Is there a way for me to find someone to room with before the event to save on cost?
Yes! After you register, we suggest that you join our Asheville Getaway WhatsApp group, where attendees can introduce themselves and connect with others who are also interested in sharing a room to save on costs. It’s a great way to meet people ahead of time, coordinate lodging plans, and start building community before you arrive in Asheville.
This is not a conference.
It’s an intimate, hands-on experience designed for photographers who value connection, creativity, and meaningful growth. We believe the best things in business are built during experiences like this — around tables, behind cameras, and in moments of shared purpose. That’s NAPCP.
Registration for this event will open to all on March 30th! Please check back.
