TRIP DATES
MARCH 25TH - 29TH, 2026
These dates were chosen specifically for snow capped mountains and early Milky Way.
TRIBE SIZE
We only accept 8 students per workshop to give our students more 1-on-1 guidance.
Once it's full, it's gone!
DIFFICULTY LEVEL
This photography workshop is open to all experience levels, from beginner to advanced all are welcome.
HIKING
This workshop will require moderate hiking (no more than 1 mile) through rocky terrain or sandy terrain.
COLOR THEORY
Learn color theory as painters understood it. Understanding hue, tone, mood and harmony in every frame.
COMPOSITION
Compose your frame with intention and learn the visual structure the guided master painters long before photos.
LIGHT STUDY
Harness the mood shaping power of light, Using techniques like chiaroscuro or the impressionist glow.
STORYTELLING
Tell a story that resonates and create images that stir more feeling, not images that just follow the rules.
ITINERARY
This Itinerary is subject to change as with any landscape photography adventure weather plays an important role in our shoots.
-
Day 1 – Meet in Las Vegas, NV: Meet at 10 AM in Las Vegas and begin with a visit to an immersive art museum to gather creative inspiration from non-photographic artists. We then travel to our retreat base in Lone Pine for a classroom session on composition, followed by a sunset field study where we begin practicing with an artist’s eye.
-
Day 2 –Composition & Concept: The morning starts with a sunrise shoot focused on composition. After breakfast it's into a classroom session on building visual pathways and share a peer review of raw images. In the evening we learn how to scout, read light, and begin shaping artistic concepts then out for field practice.
-
Day 3 – Using Light and Color: We begin with a morning shoot using our concept developed the night before. After breakfast we head to Mammoth Lakes, then dive into color theory. Our evening session takes us to a lakeshore for a field study in light and color.
-
Day 4 – Creating the Final Work: The day opens with a sunrise study to refine your personal concepts. After breakfast it's our final classroom session, focused on editing a single hero image through group guidance and 1-on-1 feedback. We end with a final sunset shoot that brings together the retreat’s lessons.
-
Day 5 – Reflection & Departure: The retreat closes with a relaxed morning at the Airbnb, time for questions, feedback, and reflection before a 10 AM departure.
LOGISTICS
NEAREST AIRPORT
You will want to fly into
LAS VEGAS AIRPORT, we will caravan together. We suggest arriving a day early.
MEETING LOCATION
We will be meeting in Las Vegas, Nevada at 10am local time, to tour the Art Museum before heading out.
ADVENTURE INCLUSIONS
ALL LODGING ACCOMMODATIONS
We have reserved lodging for the duration of the workshop and each person will have their own designated room.
PHOTOGRAPHY
INSTRUCTION
In field photography instruction, Classroom Sessions, Post processing instruction and photo critiques.
PRE & POST
ZOOM SESSIONS
We will host a PRE and POST workshop virtual session to go over logistics and flow and then again to work on editing.
NOT INCLUDED
TRANSPORTATION
Flights / car transportation are not included we are helping attendees source capable, fully equipped vehicles
MEALS & DRINKS
You are responsible for all your meals and drinks during the workshop. Hotels may include a mini fridge and microwave.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
With any adventure, it is recommended you have travel insurance, especially for medical emergencies
PRE & POST
ZOOM SESSIONS
Before we set off, we’ll have a quick Zoom meet-up to get everyone geared up and ready for the adventure ahead. It’s our way of making sure you feel confident and prepared before the real fun begins.
After the field sessions we’ll come together for editing, where we’ll show you how to bring out the full potential in your photos. You’ll get practical techniques you can use right away, and since the session is recorded you can revisit it anytime at your own pace.
WHAT YOU WILL LEARN
PLANNING YOUR SHOTS
-
Scouting and evaluating conditions
-
Composing an image to grab the viewers' attention
-
Composing an image with a person in frame to tell a story
-
Utilizing apps for more efficient planning
-
Choosing the right lens and filters for the job
-
How to shoot with a plan for editing
CAPTURING YOUR IMAGE
-
How to capture intimate details and abstract images
-
Histogram - how to read for perfectly exposed images
-
Exposure control. how to use ISO, aperture and shutter speed in different scenarios
-
Bracketing, Perspective blending and focus stacking
-
Long Exposure, how to capture blue hour
-
Creative uses of light at night
BRING THE IMAGE TO LIFE
-
Lightroom & Photoshop, learn our post processing workflow
-
Luminosity masks
-
Dodging and Burning
-
Understanding layers and masks
-
Removing distractions
-
Creating the orton glow and painting with light
-
Build your social media presence, how to maximize engagement
MEET THE TEAM
Be sure to check out our ABOUT page to learn more about our guild masters and your future favorite teachers ever!
JESS SANTOS
RYAN OSWALD
Ryan is an explorer of light and landscapes who helps photographers capture unforgettable moments.
Jess is a lifelong creator who brings the magic of wild places and the night sky to each and every workshop.
YOUR ADVENTURE IN CALIFORNIA STARTS HERE
Spots for our Eastern Sierras Photogaphy Art Retreat Workshop are limited and filling fast. With two experienced instructors you’ll get personalized guidance, one-on-one time, and the support you need to take your photography to the next level. Reserve your spot today and join us for an unforgettable adventure.
All workshops close once full!