A. On Saturday, February 9, 2008, the Expo is open from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. On Sunday, February 10, the doors open at 10:00 am and close at 4:30 P.M.
Q. Can we walk around the Gardens during the event?
A. Yes, all visitors may visit the Gardens, weather permitting.
Q. What is the cost of event?
A. The admission fee is $5/person each day. Children under 16 receive free admission to the Expo. There is a $5.00 fee for each of the lectures which are offered on both days of the Expo. Tickets for Frans Lanting's Keynote Address are $25 per person and can be purchased on-line. No discounts for children for lecture or keynote tickets.
Q. Where does this money go?
A. The Meadowlark Nature Photography Expo is organized by members of six Northern Virginia camera clubs. It is a non-profit corporation created to promote the knowledge, understanding and appreciation of photography. All funds are used towards the organization and production of the Expo.
Q. Should I bring my camera?
A. Absolutely! There will be a free camera cleaning and examination on Saturday and Sunday and you will have the chance to photograph owls and hawks. You’ll need to buy a ticket that will give you the unique opportunity to photograph these raptors in their natural environment.
Q. Should I bring some of my pictures?
A. Yes. There will be professional photography critiques on both days for anyone interested in having their work reviewed. Bring samples of your best work and some photos which you think could be improved.
Q. Can I pre-register for any of the events or activities?
A. Yes. Tickets can be purchaed online for the following: admission to the Expo, lectures and keynote address. Visit the registration page to purchase tickets.
Q. I would like to talk one-on-one with someone about my photography.
A. There are a number of opportunities for you to talk to people who are very knowledgeable about photography. Professional photographers will be available to talk about their classes and workshops. Camera club members will also be there on both days to answer questions about photography; they can also explain how joining a photography club can improve your photography skills. There will also be many industry representatives present who can discuss particular products and services with you.
Q. Is the facility handicap accessible?
A. Yes.
Q. Can we bring our pets?
A. No.
Q. Will there be something to eat at the event?
A. Yes, there will be a vendor selling coffee and tea during the morning hours along with muffins and pastries. In the afternoon there will be a variety of sandwiches available for purchase. Sodas, fruit drinks, and water will also available along with a selection of snacks in the Visitor Center.
Q. Is there plenty of parking? What will it cost to park at Meadowlark?
A: There should be ample parking for the event and staff will be on hand to direct traffic to overflow facilities if more room is needed. There is NO FEE for parking at Meadowlark.
Q: What will happen to the Expo if it rains or snows?
A: All of the events, except the outdoor raptor photography, will take place as scheduled. All events take place indoors inside heated buildings or facilities. The raptor photography program might take place if it snows (it would be a great photo opportunity), but is less likely to take place if it rains.
Q. What should we do if the forecast calls for snow or freezing rain?
A. We recommend that visitors listen to local weather reports to determine road conditions.
Q. What about parking if it snows?
A. Parking does become difficult if there is heavy snow since plows must pile the snow up to clear up parking spaces. Meadowlark does have it’s own snow plows and crews will be out clearing the parking area well before opening time and during the event if needed.
Q. How can you get to Meadowlark if you can’t drive?
A. Most visitors take the Metro to the West Falls Church or Vienna stations and then take a taxi to Meadowlark. Unfortunately, there is no bus service to Meadowlark from those Metro stations.