Southwest Full Moon Fiesta

Apr 30 - May 3, 2026 - 1 Spot Left!!

Embark on a four-day photography adventure through some of the Southwest’s most breathtaking landscapes, from the dramatic overlooks of Alstrom Point to the iconic monoliths of Monument Valley. Timed around the rising full moon, this workshop offers rare opportunities to capture golden-hour vistas, ethereal hoodoos, striped sandstone caves, and spectacular moon alignments. With expert guidance, off-road exploration, and exclusive access to Navajo-guided backcountry locations—including the legendary Hunts Mesa—you’ll experience unforgettable moments both behind the lens and in the heart of the desert.

Tuition

$2395
Loyalty Members
Save 10%

Max Group Size

8 Students Max
4 Students per Instructor

Instructor(s)

Ryan McGinty
Wendy Casey

Physical Intensity

Highlights

Timed for the full moon, offering unique opportunities to capture full moon alignments over iconic Southwest landscapes.
Off-road access to remote, otherworldly locations including Alstrom Point, dramatic hoodoos, and a stunning striped sandstone cave.
Exclusive Navajo-guided experiences in the Monument Valley backcountry, including a steak dinner atop the Hunts Mesa overlook.
Hands-on photographic guidance to elevate composition, technique, and creative vision throughout the workshop.
A small group experience (8 pax) balancing exploration, comfort, and unforgettable photographic moments.

Book Now

Hidden Gems of the Southwest Photo Workshop

Itinerary

Day 1 (Apr 30): Our adventure begins at 1:00 PM in Page, Arizona with a mandatory orientation session. After an early dinner, we set out on a thrilling 4x4 journey to Alstrom Point, winding through otherworldly badlands and sculpted hoodoos. When we arrive, you’ll instantly understand why this overlook is considered one of the Southwest’s crown jewels. As the full moon rises and warm sunset light washes over the cliffs, we’ll capture an unforgettable series of images. We return to Page late, tired but exhilarated by the evening’s photography.

Day 2 (May 1): We rise well before dawn for another off-road excursion—this time to a remote landscape filled with towering hoodoos glowing in the morning light. After sunrise, we visit a remarkable striped sandstone cave renowned for its delicate textures and patterns. Then it’s back to Page for breakfast and hotel checkout before we hit the road for Monument Valley. After settling into our lodging, we prepare for another magical moment: photographing the full moon rising over the valley’s iconic buttes.

Day 3 (May 2): The morning begins with one final full moon alignment, shot from a superb vantage point chosen for ideal compositions. Weather permitting, we’ll spend more time exploring Monument Valley before returning to the hotel for a well-earned mid-day break.
In the afternoon, we meet our Navajo guides for an adventurous 4x4 ascent to Hunts Mesa. The journey is rugged, but the reward is extraordinary—panoramic views stretching across the valley. As our guides prepare a steak dinner, we’ll photograph the sweeping landscape bathed in sunset light. Expect another late return to the hotel, full of incredible images and memories.

Day 4 (May 3): We’re up early for our final shoot, venturing deep into Monument Valley’s backcountry with our Navajo guides. You’ll visit several breathtaking locations—each offering new perspectives and plenty of “wow” moments. After the session, we return to the hotel, check out, and make our way back to Page. The workshop concludes no later than 1:00 PM, leaving you free to plan afternoon travel.

Monument Valley Photo Tour Hidden Gems Southwest Sand Ripples

I've seen Alstrom Point in many different conditions and I love seeing how much the light changes the landscape. On this evening, the full moon rose just as the sun was setting. Then the sky turned a deep red back behind us and reflected all that gorgeous color onto the rocks. The calm water and the moon in the distance really added a magical feel. The Southwest is so incredible! If you've never seen places like this, put it on your list for 2019!

Logistics

Please arrive in Page, AZ prior to 1PM Arizona Time on Day 1 for a mandatory orientation session. The workshop will conclude by 1PM on Day 4 in Page, AZ.

Participants should have their own transportation to get to/from Page, AZ. There is a small regional airport in Page but you can also fly into Las Vegas or Flagstaff and drive to Page. We provide all transportation during the workshop to the shooting locations and to and from Monument Valley. If you have your own vehicle, you are welcome to follow us as we travel between Page and Monument Valley (all paved roads).

Important: Lodging is in short supply so we have pre-paid for 3 nights of hotel accommodations for all workshop participants. During checkout you will add your lodging package based on either single or double occupancy. See the Pricing section for more details.

Everyone on this trip should be in reasonably good physical condition. We aren't planning any long hikes on this trip, but the uneven terrain, sand and steep uphills can make short hikes seem much harder. You should be comfortable walking 1-2 miles per day with your camera gear.

The weather can be variable in the spring. Usually, temps are fairly mild with plenty of sun during the day. Mornings can be cold and you'll want to bring some warm layers. Wind and rain stroms are always a possibility in the spring, so everyone needs a good quality rain jacket. Please see the gear list further down.

On Hunts Mesa our Navajo guides will prepare a delicious steak dinner (included). If you have dietary restrictions, make sure you let us know ahead of time.

We are using authorized Navajo and Hopi guides for many of the areas we visit. The cost of these guides is included in the workshop fee. They appreciate tips and gratuities if you feel so inclined.

Book Now

Lake Powell Houseboat Boat Photo Tour Workshop Rainbow

Pricing

$2395/person + Tax

Save 10% with our Loyalty Program

Trip Includes:

All ground transportation and photography instruction from 2 pros.
Adventurous 4x4 trip to the top of Hunts Mesa.
Steak dinner on top of Hunts Mesa.
Navajo backcountry guides in Monument Valley.
Park entry fees.
Post-processing and image critique
Pre-workshop Zoom Meeting
3-night lodging package will be added to your booking at checkout. Cost is $400 or $800 for double or single occupancy respectively.

Trip Does NOT Include:

Transportation to/from your home to Page, AZ.
Alcoholic Beverages.
Meals and snacks with exception of the Hunt's Mesa dinner.
Instructor Gratuities.

The Fine Print:

50% deposit required to hold your spot.
Remaining balance is due Jan 15, 2026.
If you need to cancel, a full refund less a $300 cancellation fee will be given once your spot is filled by another participant.
See the full Terms and Conditions.

Book Now

Full Moon Fiesta Southwest Photo Workshop

Here's a shot of the moonrise over Lake Powell a few days ago.

Recommended Camera Gear

Sturdy tripod and ballhead
Digital SLR or Mirrorless Camera Body.
Wide angle lens in the 16-35mm range. If you have an ultra-wide in the 11-14mm range, bring it along since there are many places we can utilize it.
Mid-range zoom lens in the range of 24-100mm.
Long telephoto lenses will come in handy in many locations. We really like the 100-400mm zoom lens.
Circular polarizer filters are useful.
Extra batteries, memory cards, and cleaning supplies.
Remote cord for your camera.
Laptop if you wish to backup your photos

Personal Gear List

Sturdy hiking footwear, hiking socks, and long pants .
A rain jacket and a warm layer.
Headlamp
Sunscreen, Sunglasses, Warm Hat, Sun Hat, and Gloves
Water bottle or hydration bladder.
Hiking poles if you like having them.
Please don't overpack, as we'll only have enough room in the vehicle for one suitcase and one camera bag.

Book Now

Trusted by Over 900 Reviews

Ryan McGinty

Photography Instructor

Ryan McGinty is a seasoned landscape photographer living in the Palouse area of southeastern Washington. His first-hand experience in this unique agricultural area makes him the perfect instructor to lead people to out-of-the-way places for those once-in-a-lifetime rainbows, sunsets and sunrises in the beautiful rolling hills. He loves chasing the light and diligently checks weather apps to get the latest sun and rain predictions, cloud formations, wind and temperatures for the best locations and light.

His interest in photography started at an early age and continued in college with graduate work at Brooks Institute of Photography. His experience in portrait, wedding, film, and medium and large format photography give him an extraordinary background for his award-winning landscape photography.

His passion for the Palouse is only exceeded by his passion for photography and his desire to show people his favorite places. He takes a legitimate interest in his clients and strives hard to ensure they get the best shots. His photographs have been published in books, calendars and travel guides.

Wendy Casey

Photography Instructor

Wendy is proud to be a Utah Native and began hiking and camping with her parents at a very young age. She has many fond memories hiking to amazing viewpoints and taking in the grandeur that is Utah. Her interest in photography began in the 80’s where she made her film images come to life in a darkroom.

She now enjoys the creativity of the digital world by photographing a wide range of interests, from Landscape, Wildlife, Portraits, to Sports. Her favorite is capturing epic scenery with a human interest.

When Wendy and her husband Randy are not at home on their farm, they are out on a trail somewhere, exploring, photographing and creating videos of their adventures. Wendy has a lot of experience with horses on their ranch and will be an instructor on some of our wild horse and ranch workshops.

Over the years, she has participated in many art shows. Her local favorites are the Kimball Arts, Park City Art Festival and Midway Swiss Days. She has shipped her art around the world and has her work hanging throughout the state in hospitals, clinics and many large and small businesses. Her images have also been featured in and on the covers of local magazines.

Wendy loves to help others develop their passion for photography and capture through the viewfinder, winning scenes to last forever and an epic story to go with it.