Field Trips
Our field trips give members the opportunity to learn, explore, and connect in a relaxed, hands-on setting. With a variety of locations and photography styles, each outing offers something new to try while building skills and community.
2026 First Quarter Field Trips
September 12, 2026 | 11 am
Photo Shoot: Japanese Fall Festival 2026
Location: Stroll Garden at Nathaniel Green Park, 2400 S Scenic Ave, Springfield, MO 65807, USA
Focus: We will meet at 11 am at the front gate to the Stroll Garden under the picnic table area. The cost is $15/adult and $4.00/child (ages 3 to 12). In addition to numerous vendor and artisan booths featuring wares authentic to Japanese culture, guests will enjoy the Nihon bunka taiken tent (Japanese culture experience tent), the omiyage and dagashi tents (souvenirs and snacks tents), and concessions. The festival offers cultural opportunities geared toward children, including an activity area featuring traditional Japanese games and crafts led by Japanese language students from Kickapoo High School. These opportunities end at dusk each evening.
Logistical notes: You will only need normal, wide-angle, and zoom lenses.
Other notes:
Special performances by
Kizuna Japan America Friendship Group
MASOSHO
Seiran Chiba
Uzumaru
Taiko Drummers
Candy 5
Noriyuki Kamiyama
KiRa-KiRa Springfield
Springfield Cosplay
Tracy's Kenpo
**OTHER INFORMATION WILL BE PROVIDED AS IT IS POSTED ON FB.**
Saturday, September 12 | 11 am-10 pm
Stage Performances: TBA
September 17-20, 2026 | Time TBD
Location: St. Louis, Mo. (Great Forest Park)
Photo Shoot: Club Mini-Trip
Focus: You will need a wide-angle lens, a medium telephoto lens, and a zoom lens. It would also be a good idea to bring a tripod, some filters for special effects, and bright lights.
Logistics Note: Photograph bright colors, Nature, Public Scenery (parks), the zoo, Arch Park, and museums around Forest Park.
Other Notes: The Great Forest Park Balloon Race returns on September 18th and 19th with two days of family-filled fun, unforgettable views, and one of the region's most beloved traditions. A live DJ will keep the energy high on the main stage, with food trucks, family activities, inflatables, games, and more.
Friday September 18, The Balloon Glow & Day Shoot
Morning,
9:00 AM, Head to the St. Louis Arch and National Park. Go up in the Arch, visitor center
10:30 AM, Head to the toy museum near the Arch
12:00 PM, Lunch
1:15
Gates open at 5:00 PM
6:45 to 8:45 PM, The balloons will start illuminating the night sky with a breathtaking display of colors and shapes.
9:00 PM, The U.S. Army Golden Knights skydiving team will perform.
9:15 PM, A fireworks finale.
SATURDAY September 19, Race Day
Gates open at 1:00 PM
1:00 PM and on Live DJ on main stage
Purina Children’s Entertainment Area and Performance Team
Opening ceremonies featuring the U.S. Army Golden Knights
4:30 PM, Balloon launches begin to the sky (weather permitting)
Whether you’re making family memories, capturing incredible photos, or simply taking in one of St Louis’s most iconic annual events, this is a week you don’t want to miss.
Thursday September 17, Leave Springfield 5:00 PM (or so)
~ 8:00 PM Check in to the hotel (TBD)
8:45 PM Shoot a few night shots around the park, streets, and skylines.