5 Tips for Shooting Telephoto Lenses

Five Tips for Shooting a Telephoto Lens In the Field

Learning how to use a telephoto lens is an important skill. We see a lot of mistakes people make in the field and it ends up impacting their ability to get sharp shots. In this informative video, David Swindler shares his must-know tips on how to use long telephoto lenses for outdoor photography, from landscapes…

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Photographing Slot Canyons

The Subway at Night Zion Slot Canyon Photography

What comes to mind when you think of slot canyons?  If you’re like most people, you’ll envision that perfect beam of light coming down into Antelope Canyon. But most people don’t realize that slot canyons come in many different shapes, sizes, and colors. Some are mossy green and verdant.  Others boast bold, colorful stripes in…

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Alstrom Point

Alstrom Point Lake Powell

When the clouds and light work together, it can be pure magic out at Alstrom Point – a remote overlook high over Lake Powell. I’ve had great luck every time I’ve been out there. Even when skies have been clear everywhere else, clouds like to congregate around here! Even though I have many great images…

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South Coyote Buttes

South Coyote Buttes Witches Hat

South Coyote Buttes is a fascinating area to photograph. The shot above is a feature often called the Witch’s Hat. I climbed up a little butte to find some nice foreground fins. South Coyote Buttes is often overlooked since it lacks many of the “iconic” spots like The Wave in North Coyote Buttes. However, if…

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White Pocket

Colorful Sunset at White Pocket

White Pocket is one of my favorite places in the desert southwest. Photographic possibilities are endless and great shots can be obtained in virtually all weather conditions. It’s famous for its large expanses of white brainrock, colorful swirls, and intricate cross-bedding. Many theories abound on how White Pocket was formed, but nobody really knows for…

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The Subway in Autumn

David Swindler at The Subway in Autumn Zion - Action Photo Tours & Workshops

The Subway in Zion National Park ranks as one of the best hikes in the world. If you have the skill, the right gear, and the physical ability, descending the Subway from the top is highly recommended. Swimming is often required on this route and the water is cold so you’ll want a wetsuit. However, you…

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Mystery Canyon

Mystery Canyon

Mystery Canyon in Zion National Park is a really fun adventure. It features a nice selection of both short and long rappels and isn’t very technical. The scenery is constantly changing as you work your way down. If you go during the fall season (early Nov), then you’ll be treated to eye-catching foliage color. Watch…

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Wahweap Hoodoos Photography

The Towers of Silence

The Wahweap Hoodoos are a unique collection of toadstools, spires, and balanced rocks located in Utah’s Grand Escalante National Monument. They are famous for their white/grey color and have long been popular with photographers. It’s a remarkable place to visit and it’s definitely worth the 9-mile round trip hike.  I’ll give more information on how to…

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Paria River Canyon

Buckskin Reflection in Utah - Action Photo Tours & Workshops

The Paria River Canyon is one of the best hikes in the American Southwest. Over millions of years, the river has carved a deep chasm through the Navajo sandstone. The towering canyon walls and narrow passages are impressive to say the least. This is one of those places that are very photogenic, but it’s difficult for…

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Grand Escalante – Coyote Gulch

Swiss Cheese Falls

I love visiting Grand Escalante National Monument in Southern Utah! There is so much variety from arches and interesting rock formations to slot canyons, toadstools, waterfalls, etc. The options for exploration are endless. Unlike many of the national parks in the vicinity, Escalante is much less trafficked but still just as stunning. In this article,…

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