TRIP DATES
OCT. 21ST - 24TH, 2027
These dates were chosen to maximize night sky shooting and peak fall colors.
TRIBE SIZE
We only accept 4 students per workshop to give our students more 1-on-1 guidance.
Once it's gone, it's gone!
DIFFICULTY LEVEL
This art of photography masterclass is open to all experience levels, from beginner to advanced.
HIKING
This workshop will require moderate hiking (no more than 3 miles) through rocky or sandy terrain.
FALL FOLIAGE
Missing fall already? After the Colorado aspens and Salt Lake maples fade, we can find golden cottonwoods backed by blue hills here.
LEARN ART
Slow down and focus on the art of photography. With lessons on color theory, storytelling and the techniques traditional artists use to create your own masterpiece.
UNIQUE GEOLOGY
This is one of our favorite spots to take photos for a reason. The unique landscape provides endless inspiration and creative potential.
STARS
Dive into new ways to capture the night sky! and explore creative techniques like star trails and zoom captures to expand your skill set.
ITINERARY
This Itinerary is subject to change as with any landscape photography adventure weather plays an important role in our shoots. We will include a Night Photography shoot each evening after sunset, weather and clouds permitting.
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Day 1 – Discovering the Desert: We meet at 2:00PM in Hanksville, Utah, for an introduction to artistic vision, composition and visual storytelling. Our first field study takes us to Goblin Valley State Park, where we explore sculpted sandstone formations through sunset and blue hour.
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Day 2 – Light, Shape & Form: Sunrise begins at Moonscape Overlook, photographing the dramatic textures and layers of Utah's badlands. Midday instruction focuses on visual pathways and the elements of design before an evening exploring light and shadow at Factory Butte.
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Day 3 – Color & Abstraction: We begin with autumn colors and telephoto photography, using a long lens to isolate patterns, textures and abstract compositions. The afternoon includes image review and editing instruction before a sunset field study at Caineville Mesa.
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Day 4 – Refining Your Vision: Our final sunrise takes us back to Factory Butte, exploring a new perspective and applying the techniques developed throughout the workshop. We conclude with questions, feedback and reflection before departing Hanksville.
STUDENT
GALLERY
We believe a great photograph goes beyond technique to capture story and meaning. In our workshops, students are encouraged to push creative boundaries and grow through the process. Explore past student images for a glimpse of what has been created and inspiration for your own work.
LOGISTICS
NEAREST AIRPORT
You will want to fly into
SALT LAKE CITY AIRPORT or MOAB AIRPORT, arrive before 2pm the first day.
MEETING LOCATION
Central Utah (4hr Drive from Salt Lake City Airport or 1.5hr Drive from Moab Airport)
ADVENTURE INCLUSIONS
ALL LODGING ACCOMMODATIONS
We have reserved lodging for the duration of the workshop. Each person will have their own designated room.
PHOTOGRAPHY
INSTRUCTION
In field photography instruction, Post processing instruction and photo critiques are the best part!
PRE ZOOM & POST
EDIT SESSIONS
Spend more time in nature. Then come back to relive those moments with a session in the digital dark room.
NOT INCLUDED
TRANSPORTATION
Flights / car transportation are not included we are helping attendees source capable, fully equipped vehicles
MEALS & SNACKS
Meals will often be on the go as we chase light, you will be responsible for your own meals and snacks.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
With any adventure, it is recommended you have travel insurance, especially for medical emergencies
PRE ZOOM & POST
EDIT SESSIONS
Before your photography workshop, we’ll meet on Zoom to review gear, preparation and what to expect in the field. After the workshop, you’ll receive a recorded editing tutorial tailored to your specific workshop, delivered through Dropbox, to help you refine your images and develop your post-processing skills at your own pace.
WHAT YOU WILL LEARN
CREATING A VISUAL STORY
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Finding inspiration and developing a creative concept.
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Creating photographs that tell a story and evoke emotion.
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Using visual pathways, framing and perspective to guide the viewer's eye.
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Choosing lenses and techniques to support your artistic vision.
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Planning your composition with the final image in mind.
ART & DESIGN PRINCIPLES
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Understanding the elements of art: line, shape, form, color, value, texture and space.
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Applying balance, contrast, movement, rhythm and pattern to your compositions.
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Using color theory to create visual impact.
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Working with light and shadow to establish mood and depth.
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Discovering natural patterns and abstract compositions.
CREATIVE POST PROCESSING
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Developing a fine art workflow in Lightroom and Photoshop.
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Using layers, masks and luminosity selections for precise adjustments.
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Dodging and burning to the viewer's direct attention.
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Exposure blending, focus stacking and removing distractions.
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Color grading, Orton glow and creative finishing techniques.
RECOMMENDED CAMERA & PERSONAL GEAR
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DSLR or Mirrorless Camera Body
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Wide, Fast Camera Lens (16mm - 35mm or Similar)
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Mid-Range Camera Lens (24mm - 70mm or Similar)
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Telephoto Lenses, useful for distant details, fall compositions, wildlife or timelapse.
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Sturdy Tripod and Ballhead
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Extra Batteries and Memory Cards
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Intervalometer (Wired or Built into your Camera)
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Rain Cover for your Camera and Camera Bag
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Laptop for Editing Sessions
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External Hard Drive for your Photos
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If you have a drone bring it, there will be opportunities
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Charger for Camera and Laptop
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Sturdy Hiking Boots, Hiking Socks, Long Pants
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Rain Jacket and/or Warm Jacket, it can get chilly!
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Headlamp (preferably with a white light)
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Sunscreen and Bug Spray
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Hat & Sunglasses, Beanie & Gloves
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Water Bottle
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Hiking Poles if needed
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
Jess is a lifelong creator who brings the magic of wild places and the night sky to each and every workshop.
YOUR ADVENTURE IN UTAH STARTS HERE
Spots for our Utah Fall Badlands workshop are limited and filling fast. With such a small group size 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!
