TRIP DATES
APRIL 14TH - 19TH , 2026
These dates were chosen to maximize Milky Way shooting during pleasant weather.
TRIBE SIZE
We only accept 8 students per workshop to give our students more 1-on-1 guidance.
Once it's gone, it's gone!
DIFFICULTY LEVEL
This night sky masterclass is open to all experience levels, from beginner to advanced all are welcome.
HIKING
This workshop will require moderate hiking (no more than 3 miles) through rocky or sandy terrain.
MILKY WAY
This workshop takes place in one of the darkest places we've experienced, which means more time focused on capturing the stars.
TRACKERS
This workshop focuses on everything astro and that means using a tracker too. Using a star tracker gets us more detail without the noise.
UNIQUE GEOLOGY
This is one of our favorite spots to take photos for a reason. The unique landscape provides endless inspiration and creative potential.
STAR TRAILS
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.
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Day 1 – Arrive in Hanksville: We’ll meet at noon in Hanksville, Utah, then caravan to our desert basecamp. After setting up camp we cover camera settings, logistics and what to expect for the journey ahead. As the sun drops, we explore the hoodoos of Goblin Valley, capturing sunset and blue hour before moving to an overlook for our first Milky Way session.
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Day 2 – Ancient History & Hoodoos: An early start takes us to a rock formation we call “the Sphinx,” as she guards Factory Butte. The afternoon is for rest and regrouping at camp with in-field classroom sessions. We end the day at a hidden pocket of the badlands near Factory Butte, photographing sunset before returning to camp for another night under the stars.
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Day 3 – Reset in Town: We’ll break camp and head into Farmington for lunch and a check in at the Airbnb. This is a chance to restock and refresh. The afternoon and evening will be spent in an editing session before a well-earned night of rest in a real bed.
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Day 4 – Sacred Valleys: At sunrise we step onto the edge of an overlook that literally feels like your standing on the moon. After breakfast at camp we pack up and move to our stargazer domes, spending the rest of the day in editing sessions to refine images captured so far.
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Day 5 – Storytelling in Stone: The morning is slow at the domes, giving time to recharge before more classroom instruction. In the evening we photograph a towering desert obelisk through sunset and blue hour. Once darkness settles, we return to the domes for another round of Milky Way shooting.
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Day 5 – Sunrise Transformation: After checking out of the domes, we head back to basecamp. The evening takes us to Arsenic Arch for sunset and blue hour. We close the night with one final Milky Way session under the desert sky.
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Day 6 – Sunrise Transformation: We pack up camp with time for questions, critiques and feedback before goodbyes.
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
This is an overlanding workshop, however 1 night will be spent in the most amazing lodging to recharge and EDIT!
PHOTOGRAPHY
INSTRUCTION
In field photography instruction, Post processing instruction and photo critiques are the best part!
PRE & POST
ZOOM 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 & 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
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Scouting and evaluating conditions
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Composing a Timelapse to grab the viewers' attention
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Composing an image with a person in frame to tell a story
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Utilizing apps for more efficient planning
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Choosing the right lens and filters for the job
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How to shoot with a plan for editing
CAPTURING YOUR TIMELAPSE
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How to capture intimate details and abstract images
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Histogram - how to read for perfectly exposed images
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Exposure control. how to use ISO, aperture and shutter speed in different scenarios
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Bracketing, Perspective blending and focus stacking
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Long Exposure, how to capture blue hour
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Creative uses of light at night and different shooting styles.
BRING THE VIDEO TO LIFE
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Lightroom, Photoshop, LR Timelapse, Premiere Pro & Capcut: Learn our post processing workflow
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Luminosity masks
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Dodging and Burning
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Understanding layers and masks
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Music, choosing the right music for your video, adding sounds effects
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LUTs & Motion Graphics, what they are and how to use them
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 are optional, but useful for distant details, summer storms, 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 Morning 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
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 UTAH STARTS HERE
Spots for our Utah Badlands 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!
JOIN THE GUILD AND INVEST IN YOUR PASSION!
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