Monument Valley Mania

Sept 13-18, 2027 - Coming Soon

Experience Monument Valley at its photographic best on this 6-day landscape workshop timed around the full moon. We’ve carefully planned several moon alignments with the valley’s most iconic formations, while Navajo guides give us access to remote backcountry locations far beyond the standard viewpoints. And the moon isn’t the only thing lining up—we’ve timed these dates around another special photographic opportunity that we’ll save as a surprise in the field. We’ll also spend a night on Hunts Mesa for sunset and sunrise photography, complete with a steak dinner and hearty breakfast overlooking the valley.

Tuition

Coming Soon

Max Group Size

4 Students per Instructor
8 Students Max

Instructor(s)

David Swindler
Sarah Shumaker

Physical Intensity

Highlights

Photograph several carefully planned full moon alignments with Monument Valley’s iconic formations.
Access remote backcountry locations with authorized Navajo guides.
Spend a night on Hunts Mesa for sunset and sunrise photography.
Enjoy a steak dinner and hearty breakfast on Hunts Mesa.
Photograph arches, buttes, dunes, sweeping overlooks, and classic desert scenes.
Chase unique seasonal light and shadow conditions.
Small group size with hands-on photography instruction.

Itinerary

We keep our itinerary flexible to account for weather and current conditions. More importantly, this workshop has been carefully timed around several very specific photographic opportunities, so we intentionally don't publish every location and composition in advance. The itinerary below gives you an idea of what to expect while keeping a few surprises for the field.

Day 1 – Welcome to Monument Valley

We meet together early afternoon for an orientation session before heading out for our first photography session among Monument Valley’s towering sandstone formations. Our dates have been selected to coincide with a special seasonal lighting opportunity, giving us an exciting way to begin the workshop.

Day 2 – Backcountry Landscapes & Hunts Mesa

We’ll be up before dawn to photograph one of our favorite backcountry locations as the first light reaches the desert. After breakfast and a midday rest, the adventure really begins.

With our Navajo guides, we’ll travel deep into the backcountry and make the rugged journey to the top of Hunts Mesa. Few perspectives convey the scale of Monument Valley quite like this one. We’ll photograph through sunset and enjoy a steak dinner under the starry night sky.

Day 3 – Sunrise Above Monument Valley & the Full Moon

We’ll wake before sunrise and photograph the changing light from high above the valley. From blue hour through the first warm light of morning, Hunts Mesa offers an incredible variety of wide-angle and telephoto compositions.

After a hearty breakfast, we’ll make our way back down from the mesa and return to our lodging for showers, lunch, and a well-earned midday break.

Later that afternoon, we’ll head back into the field as the full moon becomes an important part of our compositions. We’ve carefully scouted our shooting positions to combine the moon with Monument Valley’s unmistakable desert landscape.

Days 4-5 – Moonlight & Backcountry Exploration

These two days are built around several of the workshop’s carefully planned moon photography opportunities, along with some of our favorite backcountry landscapes in and around Monument Valley. Depending on conditions, we may begin before sunrise, photograph through sunset, or venture beyond the classic viewpoints in search of the best light.

With the help of our Navajo guides, we’ll explore remote sandstone formations, sweeping desert vistas, and lesser-known locations far from the crowds. We’ll keep the schedule flexible to take advantage of weather, clouds, and the unique photographic opportunities we’ve timed specifically for these dates, with generous midday breaks whenever possible.

Day 6 – Final Sunrise

We'll get up early for one last sunrise shoot, choosing our location based on the conditions and the images we’ve already captured during the week Afterward, we’ll return to the hotel for breakfast and say our goodbyes. The workshop concludes later that morning.

Tear Drop Arch Monument Valley Photography Workshop

Lodging

Lodging options are scarce and expensive in Monument Valley. Goulding's Lodge is the best combination of comfort, service, and value. We have reserved lodge rooms for 5-nights for all our guests.

Your lodging reservation is maintained for every night of the workshop—including the night we camp on Hunts Mesa. This means you can leave your luggage and belongings in your room and won't have to check out, repack, or worry about hotel check-in times when we return the following day. Simply bring the items you need for the overnight adventure.

The lodging cost is added separately at checkout. The cost for double and single occupancy are listed below. Double occupancy cannot be guaranteed and you may be required to upgrade to single occupancy if a same-gender roommate is not available.

Double Occupancy: $800
Single Occupancy: $1600

Monument Valley Photography Workshop Hunts Mesa David Swindler

Monument Valley Photo Workshop Mystery Valley

Logistics

Please plan to arrive in Monument Valley no later than 1PM MDT on Day 1 for our mandatory orientation session.

Guests are responsible for transportation to and from Monument Valley. The closest regional airports include Page and Flagstaff, Arizona, although many guests choose to fly into Las Vegas, Phoenix, or Salt Lake City and make the scenic drive to Monument Valley. There is no convenient public transportation to Monument Valley, so guests flying in should plan to rent a vehicle.

You will not need your personal vehicle for our photography outings. All transportation to shooting locations during the workshop is provided, including our Navajo-guided backcountry excursions.

We'll schedule a pre-workshop Zoom meeting several months before departure. This gives everyone an opportunity to meet the instructors and other guests, review the itinerary and equipment recommendations, ask questions, and coordinate potential carpools.

Our schedule revolves around sunrise, sunset, moon position, and the best available light. Expect several early mornings and some long photography days, balanced with generous midday breaks for breakfast, rest, downloading images, charging batteries, and catching up on sleep.

Aside from the steak dinner and breakfast during our Hunts Mesa overnight, meals, beverages, and snacks are not included. Guests are responsible for their own meals even when we choose to eat together as a group.

We use authorized Navajo guides for restricted backcountry areas. Guide services, access fees, permits, and park entrance fees associated with workshop activities are included in the workshop tuition. Gratuities for local guides and photography instructors are not included.

Monument Valley Photo Tour Hidden Gems Southwest

Hunts Mesa

Reaching Hunts Mesa is an adventure in itself. We’ll travel with experienced Navajo guides over a rugged backcountry route to one of the finest panoramic viewpoints in the Monument Valley region. After photographing the late-afternoon light and sunset, we'll gather around the campfire for a delicious steak dinner.

Around the fire, our Navajo guides will share traditional songs and stories, adding a memorable cultural connection to the experience. When it’s time to turn in, each guest will have their own tent beneath Monument Valley’s dark skies.

We’ll wake before dawn for sunrise photography, followed by a hearty breakfast before making our way back down from the mesa. Your hotel room remains reserved throughout the overnight, so you can leave most of your luggage behind and bring only what you need for camp. As soon as we return, you'll be able to shower and get some rest.

Pricing - 6 Days

$4,800/person + Tax

$4,320/person with Loyalty Discount

Trip Includes:

6-day intensive Monument Valley landscape photography workshop.
Navajo guides and authorized Monument Valley backcountry access.
Hunts Mesa overnight experience.
Steak dinner and hearty breakfast on Hunts Mesa
Park entrance fees and backcountry access fees
All transportation to photography locations during the workshop.
Professional photography instruction throughout the trip.
Post-processing demonstrations and image critique.
Pre-workshop Zoom meeting.
Lodging is added separately during the checkout process. Please see the Lodging section above.

Trip Does NOT Include:

Transportation to/from your home to Monument Valley
Meals, beverages, and snacks except for dinner and breakfast on Hunts Mesa.
Gratuities for instructors and guides.

The Fine Print:

50% deposit required to hold your spot.
Remaining balance is due May 13, 2027
If you need to cancel, a full refund less a $300 cancellation fee will be given once your spot is filled by another participant.
Travel Insurance is highly recommended.
See the full Terms and Conditions.

Your Workshop Experience

Physical Activity

This workshop is rated Moderate. There are no long hikes, and most photography locations involve relatively short walks. We move at a relaxed, photography-focused pace with plenty of time to set up equipment, work on compositions, and navigate the terrain comfortably.

Walking surfaces may include loose sand, sandstone, rocks, and uneven desert terrain. Guests should be comfortable carrying the camera equipment and personal items they choose to bring over these shorter distances.

Backcountry Driving

Reaching some of our best photography locations requires traveling on rough backcountry roads. The journey to Hunts Mesa in particular involves an extended ride over sand, rock, steep sections, and very uneven terrain. It's an incredible part of the adventure, but it can be quite bumpy.

Guests with significant neck or back concerns should contact us before booking so we can describe the ride in more detail.

Camping Experience

We will spend one night camping on Hunts Mesa so we can photograph both sunset and sunrise from this exceptional location. Guests should be comfortable getting in and out of a ground-level tent and sleeping in a backcountry camping environment for one night.

Your hotel room remains reserved during the overnight, so you can leave most of your luggage behind and bring only what you need for camp.

Daily Schedule

Photography revolves around the best light and the position of the moon, so expect early mornings and late evening shoots throughout the trip. On certain days, we may leave well before sunrise to be in position for a time-sensitive photographic opportunity.

We balance these early starts with substantial midday breaks whenever possible. These breaks provide time to eat, rest, shower, download images, charge equipment, and catch up on sleep before heading back into the field.

Hidden Gems of the Southwest Photo Workshop

Monument Valley Photo Workshop Forrest Gump Point

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. For night photography, it's best to have a lens that is f/2.8 or faster.
Mid-range zoom lens in the range of 24-100mm. If you have prime portrait lenses, bring them along.
Long telephoto lenses will come in handy in many locations. We really like the 100-400mm zoom lens.
Circular polarizer filters are useful. Bring any ND filters if you have them.
Extra batteries, memory cards, and cleaning supplies.
Remote cord for your camera.
Laptop if you wish to backup your photos or follow along during the post-processing instruction.

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.

Can I Bring a Non-Photographer Companion?

How Do Deposits and Final Payments Work?

For most workshops, a 50% deposit is due at the time of registration. The remaining balance is typically due approximately 120 days prior to the workshop. We will contact you in advance to coordinate and process your final payment.

For workshops priced over $10,000, the payment schedule is structured differently. A 25% deposit is due at registration, with additional payments scheduled at 9 months, 6 months, and 4 months prior to departure. Specific payment terms for each trip are outlined on the individual workshop page and in your registration details.

What Is Your Loyalty Program and How Does It Work?

We encourage everyone to become a Loyalty Member—there’s no requirement to have traveled with us before.

Simply visit our Loyalty Program page and purchase the $99 annual membership. Once enrolled, you’ll receive a personalized 10% discount code valid for most domestic workshops and day trips booked during your one-year membership period.

Exceptions: International workshops and select domestic workshops are not eligible for the loyalty discount.

For most members, the savings from just one booking more than pays for the membership.

But the biggest perk? Early access. Loyalty Members receive first notification of new workshops. If you’ve been part of our community for any length of time, you know many of our trips sell out quickly. Early access often means the difference between securing your spot and missing out.

It’s one of the best ways to stay ahead—and save money while doing it.

Why Is Lodging Sometimes Priced Separately?

For many domestic workshops, lodging is offered as a separate add-on during checkout, with both single and double occupancy options available.

We separate lodging for several reasons:

Transparency: You can clearly see the actual cost of accommodations.
Flexibility: Some participants don’t require lodging (locals, RV travelers, or those staying with friends or family).
Fair Discounts: Loyalty discounts apply to workshop tuition only—not lodging. Keeping lodging separate ensures discounts remain simple and equitable.

When adding lodging, you’ll choose your preferred occupancy (single or double) during the booking process.

What Level of Photographer Do I Need To Be?

All experience levels are welcome—from beginners to working professionals. Our mission is to help you capture your best images, no matter where you’re starting from.

At the beginning of each workshop, we’ll ask about your experience level and your goals. This allows us to tailor instruction specifically to you—whether that’s camera fundamentals, composition, night photography, or refining your editing workflow.

To get the most out of your experience, we strongly recommend reading our Ebook ahead of time. Familiarity with the basics (exposure, focus, and common camera settings) makes in-field learning more enjoyable and less stressful. We also encourage you to explore our Education page for additional resources.

Drones: If you plan to bring a drone, you must already be comfortable launching, landing, and flying safely before the workshop. Our instructors can teach photography techniques, but they cannot pilot your aircraft for you.

How Will I Know If I'll Like Your Trips?

A great way to get a feel for the experience is to hear directly from past guests.

We have 900+ five-star reviews—you can browse testimonials on both Google and Trip Advisor to see what participants consistently say about their time with us.

You can also visit our Client Images page to see the quality of photographs our participants create while on an adventure with us. Each year, we host the Action Photogs Photo Contest, where guests submit their favorite images from our trips. Viewing past contest videos is another excellent way to see the real results our clients achieve.

At some point, though, you simply have to take the leap. Many guests start with a day tour, overnight adventure, or short workshop to get to know us. Once they do, they tend to keep coming back—90% of our participants are repeat clients.

We’re confident that after your first trip, you’ll understand why.

What Level of Physical Fitness Is Required?

Should I Have Trip Insurance?

See All FAQ's

Monument Valley Photo Tour Hidden Gems Southwest Sand Ripples

Monument Valley Night Photography Workshop Hunts Mesa

Trusted by Over 900 Reviews

      All reviews
 
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  Excellent4.9969 reviews
 4.9
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 Excellent582 reviews
 
 
 
   
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Susan Kuning 
 September 15, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This is for people who want to be better photographers and get great shots - it's not for the faint of heart. We were up well pre-dawn each day and late each night (with a break during the day) and hiking to great locations. This company is serious about finding the great places to be at the right time of day, and then working with each attendee to improve their shots. I learned a tremendous amount on this trip from how to use my camera better for focus bracketing plus exposure bracketing to new techniques in Lightroom and Photoshop (and I wasn't a novice in these apps.) Highly recommended.
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Steve P 
 August 31, 2026
 
 
 Verified Go where few have gone. See what few have seen. David Swindler has built a reputation as an outstanding photographer but also runs small personalized photography workshops around the world. Recently I attended the 5 day Marble Canyon workshop in Arizona. We were able to capture spectacular sunrise, sunset and monsoon photos (still and drone) of Marble Canyon at different locations along its 65 mile path into the Grand Canyon. Base camp was Cliff Dwellers Hotel. We enjoyed clean comfortable rooms and excellent food at their restaurant. Our photography expert and guide, Shane McDermott -a professional photographer himself, was very easy going and willing to help us in anyway we needed. The workshop taught us new drone skills as well as better composition techniques for shooting stills. I am not an advanced photographer but was looking to advance my photography knowledge and experience and achieved this in spades. If you are looking for a new experience and willing to step into a place very few people have ever witnessed, then the Marble Canyon workshop with ActionPhotoTours.com is for you!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   S.R. Potts 
 August 26, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. David Swindler has built a reputation as an outstanding photographer but also runs small personalized photography workshops around the world.  Recently I attended the 5 day Marble Canyon workshop in Arizona.  We were able to capture spectacular sunrise, sunset and monsoon photos (still and drone) of Marble Canyon at different locations along its 65 mile path into the Grand Canyon.  Base camp was Cliff Dwellers Hotel.  We enjoyed clean comfortable rooms and excellent food at their restaurant.  Our photography expert and guide, Shane McDermott -a professional photographer himself, was very easy going and willing to help us in anyway we needed. The workshop taught us new drone skills as well as better composition techniques for shooting stills.  I am not an advanced photographer but was looking to advance my photography knowledge and experience and achieved this in spades. If you are looking for a new experience and willing to step into a place very few people have ever witnessed, then the Marble Canyon workshop with ActionPhotoTours.com is for you!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Marcus Simon 
 August 23, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I took a photo workshop at the Wave and Escalante near Kanab, Utah, Moab monsoon workshop, and a Marble Canyon drone workshop.  They were awesome workshops! Great instructor, locations, and people.  I highly recommend the Action Photo Tours Team!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Lucia Souza 
 August 16, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I recently returned from the Mount Rainier workshop, and it was an incredible experience. From the beginning, A.J.Rich and Shane McDermott made sure everything was well organized and that we had the best opportunities to capture great images. They carefully scout locations before the workshop and are always available in the field to answer questions about cameras, tripods, drones, and other equipment, regardless of the brand. Their knowledge, patience, and professionalism truly make a difference. A.J.and Shane clearly love what they do, they represent Action Photo Tours exceptionally well, I highly recommend them for both  private or group workshops. Thank you for another amazing trip, I’m proud to be part of the Action Photo Tours family and already looking forward to the next adventure!
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   SouzaLu 
 August 16, 2026
 
 
 Verified Great workshop with a reliable and professional company! I recently returned from the Mount Rainier workshop, and it was an incredible experience! From the beginning, A.J Rich and Shane McDermott made sure everything was well organized and that we had the best opportunities to capture great images. They carefully scout locations before the workshop and are always available in the field to answer questions about cameras, tripods, drones, and other equipment, regardless of the brand, their knowledge, patience, and professionalism truly make a difference, A.J. and Shane clearly love what they do and represent Action Photo Tours exceptionally well, I highly recommend them for a group or private workshops. I’m proud to be part of the Action Photo Tours family and already looking forward to the next adventure!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Sherl Cayton 
 July 21, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a really outstanding photog workshop into Glacier National Park with AJ Rich and Kevin McNeal of Action Photo Tours.  They both went above and beyond to ensure we all had a great experience.  They were very helpful while in the field shooting and informative with processing procedures.  Can't wait to join them on another adventure!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Cindy Seavert 
 July 4, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This was my first photo tour, and I am just floored with how much fun we had, how much we learned, how much sleep we lost  =]. We shot gorgeous sunrises and sunsets, Palouse Falls, barns, the Weber house, Steptoe Butte, everything was just so photogenic.  Our guides, Wendy and Ryan, were excellent.  I learned a lot in the afternoon classes as well as when we were out shooting.  We had a wonderful group of ladies, it was so much fun.  I signed up for another one, down south, for next year.
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Cindy S 
 July 3, 2026
 
 
 Verified Fantastic Photography Tour! Ryan and Wendy, our guides, were fantastic, very knowledgeable, and very patient lol. We all had a really fun time. Ryan and Wendy both kept asking if anyone needed help with composition or anything. The places we went to were very cool, I felt like I was on another planet in Steptoe Butte. We packed a lot in while we were there. Everyone in our group was fantastic (we were the Chicks that Click group). I enjoyed it so much I signed up with another tour down south next year.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Subrata Sen 
 June 8, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My 3rd trip with Action Photo Tours was along the southern Oregon /Northern California coast. They are the Swiss multi-tool of the photo-travel world. They go everywhere, all at the right times, with the most considerate, knowledgeable and organized tour leaders. I highly recommend them.
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Liltrave 
 May 17, 2026
 
 
 Verified Great tour to white pockets My husband wanted to go to White pockets and it would have been a difficult drive for us. You must have a four-wheel-drive high clearance vehicle. The drive there is one hour on paved highway, but then another one hour on a very bumpy back road so be prepared. We met Kevin at the office in Kanab. It's out-of-the-way and hard to get to so it was nice to have someone who knows the area. Kevin was really good about pointing out areas to take pictures and advising my husband on photo opportunities in a different perspective. Kevin was knowledgeable about photography & very nice.
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Cindy P 
 May 2, 2026
 
 
 Verified Beautiful Patagonia Patagonia is beautiful. One of my favorite trips.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Roberto Morgenstern 
 April 16, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Incredible workshops. Excellent Company. Very profesionals. Strongly recomended.
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   _rmu66 
 April 16, 2026
 
 
 Verified Extremly recomended. Wild Horses in Utah, an incredible experience. Action Photo tours is highly recomended. Been in many workshops with them and always a great experience.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Andree Thorpe 
 April 1, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’m honestly not even sure where to begin, this photography trip completely exceeded every expectation I had. I’ve attended and assisted in many workshops over the years, and I’ve been fortunate enough to experience incredible places like South Georgia, Svalbard, Antarctica, Iceland, and Greenland. But this journey to the Maasai Mara was something else entirely. It moved me in a way I didn’t expect, there were moments when I literally had tears running down my cheeks. Everything was absolutely flawless. The organization was seamless from start to finish, which allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the experience without worrying about a single detail. The depth of knowledge shared about wildlife photography was exceptional, insightful, practical, and truly inspiring. And the team, just phenomenal. From the workshop leaders to the drivers, everyone played a part in making this experience unforgettable. The drivers, in particular, were outstanding, their skill, intuition, and ability to position us perfectly for incredible shots made all the difference. This wasn’t just a photography trip. It was an emotional, inspiring, once-in-a-lifetime experience that will stay with me forever. I’m beyond grateful to have been part of it.
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   R D 
 March 31, 2026
 
 
 Verified A great Time! What a great time! Very well executed flexible schedule which brought us to the right location each day. Wendy and Sara are knowledgeable and top tier guides. The hardest decision is which trip to do next with Action Photo Tours.
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Lynn C 
 March 28, 2026
 
 
 Verified Great Action Photo Tour to the Southern Plantations in Charleston, SC My husband and I just finished our first photography tour with Action Photo Tours. It was excellent! Each day's activities were timed so we were in the best location at the right time. Our guide, Shane did everything possible to make our experience the best it could be. He was always available and able to answer our questions, and the group used different brands of cameras with various plug-ins. He has an incredible depth of knowledge, and he clearly loves photography and helping people. We had two classroom sessions. The first session was very informative and really highlighted a global way of looking at processing pictures. It has changed the approach I will take going forward. Shane was very positive about the pictures we had taken and then worked with us to achieve the best outcome for each picture. We will definitely try other tours with Action Photo with the hope that all the guides share Shane's level of enthusiasm for photography and desire to make the tour the best experience it can be.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Dean Fiergang 
 March 26, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Milky Way Photography with Wendy Casey and Sarah Shumaker was an excellent trip!!!!!!  These two people hosted a perfectly executed photo tour with ample hands on assistance, and the most wonderful disposition ever!  They are true professionals, in their own photographic skills, ability to teach and communicate effectively, plan and execute, adapt to changes in weather, and cater each trip to the abilities of the group.  I hope to join them each on future trips!!!   WILD HORSES NEXT?
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Dean F 
 March 26, 2026
 
 
 Verified Milky Way photography Milky Way Photography with Wendy Casey and Sarah Shumaker was an excellent trip!!!!!! These two people hosted a perfectly executed photo tour with ample hands on assistance, and the most wonderful disposition ever! They are true professionals, in their own photographic skills, ability to teach and communicate effectively, plan and execute, adapt to changes in weather, and cater each trip to the abilities of the group. I hope to join them each on future trips!!! WILD HORSES NEXT?
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Robert Shely 
 March 25, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I've just returned from an OUTSTANDING ADVENTURE led by Wendy Casey and seconded by Sarah Shumaker in the MILKY WAY AND BEYOND WORKSHOP.   At least three characteristics of this trip stood out and made it an excellent experience.   First, the Milky Way itself.  The skies cooperated and the Milky Way stood out prominently, inviting observers to consider themselves as citizens of the Galaxy for those few hours where we stood alone in peaceful night weather soaking it its lights.   Second, the Utah foreground opportunities in this workshop are simply outstanding -- almost other-worldly.  They are just made for this adventure.  And third -- the instruction.  Wendy had all participants -- even very experienced photographers -- bring their camera body, night time lens, tripod and cable release to a day-time pre-shoot session, to ensure that everyone could and did find the settings on their camera in the light, which made the participants much more efficient and effective at night, when we wanted to douse lights as quickly as possible.  If you are a Milky Way fan, try this workshop.  If you have no experience with the Milky Way, this is great way to work into it. Bob Shely
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mark Jen Hunt 
 March 25, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If you are looking for an "obsessed" photography itinerary that pushes your skills and fills your heart, look no further. I just wrapped up the March 15–20, 2026 Death Valley workshop, and it was a masterclass in both curation and community. This wasn’t just a tour; it was a deep dive. We hit the icons like Artist Palette, Zabriskie Point, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, and Badwater Basin but the real magic was in the "grind." The team’s dedication is unmatched; they coordinated a midnight departure for a 2.5-hour drive just so we could capture the Milky Way over Racetrack Playa. So cool!!! Between that and two other early-morning astro sessions, the "minimal sleep" was a small price to pay for the full heart and amazing photos I’m taking home. A massive thank you to Ryan McGinty. His technical expertise helped me master more of my camera settings and was so patient and kind. They don't just take you to a location; they ensure you walk away with the shot and the knowledge to recreate it. The best part of an Action Photo Tour is the kindred spirits you meet. From the endless laughs with fellow participants to the spontaneous connections made over sunrise excursions, this workshop attracts a fantastic group of creatives. Ryan and Kevin recommend additional areas for me to explore as I was stayed three extra nights.  I’m heading back to work exhausted but with a very full heart (and numerous photos). If you want a workshop that values time, effort, and incredible locations, book with Action Photo Tours. I look forward to booking another workshop with them.
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Jen H 
 March 25, 2026
 
 
 Verified Well Curated Itinerary and Fun! If you are looking for an "obsessed" photography itinerary that pushes your skills and fills your heart, look no further. I just wrapped up the March 15–20, 2026 Death Valley workshop, and it was a masterclass in both curation and community. This wasn’t just a tour; it was a deep dive. We hit the icons like Artist Palette, Zabriskie Point, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, and Badwater Basin but the real magic was in the "grind." The team’s dedication is unmatched; they coordinated a midnight departure for a 2.5-hour drive just so we could capture the Milky Way over Racetrack Playa. So cool!!! Between that and two other early-morning astro sessions, the "minimal sleep" was a small price to pay for the full heart and amazing photos I’m taking home. A massive thank you to Ryan McGinty. His technical expertise helped me master more of my camera settings and was so patient and kind. They don't just take you to a location; they ensure you walk away with the shot and the knowledge to recreate it. The best part of an Action Photo Tour is the kindred spirits you meet. From the endless laughs with fellow participants to the spontaneous connections made over sunrise excursions, this workshop attracts a fantastic group of creatives. Ryan and Kevin recommend additional areas for me to explore as I was stayed three extra nights. I’m heading back to work exhausted but with a very full heart (and numerous photos). If you want a workshop that values time, effort, and incredible locations, book with Action Photo Tours. I look forward to booking another workshop with them.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   howard grodin 
 March 19, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Good afternoon, This is my second adventure with Action Photo Tours. My trip to India was an amazing experience. There are several steps before boarding an airplane and David provided me (and the group) with detailed instructions for filling out the eVisa so the process was smooth. Once we were in Delhi, we all met at the Pride Hotel and transportation was arranged so we felt safe with our bags when traveling to Delhi Airport. David and Nitish provided us with ticket information with Indiago airlines to our first jungle camp. They also provided us with a PDF checklist as security in India is much stricter than in the United States. I learned that all camera equipment is going to put into a bin for screening along with the camera case separately. Also, I already bring several 2.5-gallon clear ziplock bags that I used to place all cords, chargers, hard drives, so the scanner can see that these items are safe. At all three camps, the morning sessions were generally better for photography since the tigers and other wildlife usually were more active. However, with wildlife, anything is possible so the important thing to be prepared. We had several tiger sightings at Tadoba and Kanha national parks. We are restricted to staying on the dirt roads whereas the tigers are free to roam the wilderness. We all photographed a single male or female tiger walking in the woods and occasionally would choose to walk down the road which provided us with exciting opportunities while giving the tiger plenty of room so that it does turn away to head back into the jungle. My group with Nitish had 1 good leopard sighting at Pence but the other 2 vehicles did really did not. The overall experience of seeing these large animals up close is something that I will never forget. David and Nitish provided our group with plenty of individual instruction as requested/needed which improved our overall keeper rate. If you ever dreamed of going to India, make sure that you arrive a few days early (At your expense) so that you can go see the Taj Mahal and part of the golden triangle before starting your wildlife journey. David and Nitish are awesome to work with and made the entire experience worth the 17–20-hour flight from US to Delhi.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Larry C 
 March 16, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Just completed a week in Moab, Utah on Actions Photo's "Level Up Moab" workshop.  This workshop was billed as being designed to help "break through creative plateaus and take full control of your photography", so in addition to getting great shots I learned some new techniques and tricks even though I’m pretty comfortable with my camera in manual mode.  The instructors are great and the scenery in and around Moab is unique and beautiful. Highly Recommend!
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Larry C 
 March 16, 2026
 
 
 Verified Moab Photo Workshop - Great! Just completed a week in Moab, Utah on Actions Photo's "Level Up Moab" workshop. This workshop was billed as being designed to help "break through creative plateaus and take full control of your photography", so in addition to getting great shots I learned some new techniques and tricks even though I’m pretty comfortable with my camera in manual mode. The instructors are great and the scenery in and around Moab is unique and beautiful. Highly Recommend!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Lloyd Stuart, M.D. 
 February 10, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Outstanding photo tours with experts.  They take you to the best locations and help you with post processing.  Most of their clients have been on numerous tours - me included.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   robert golub 
 February 10, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Just finished a winter workshop in Yosemite. Not as much snow as I hoped for, but nevertheless an outstanding workshop. The guides were incredible. Extremely knowledgeable and incredible teachers. I highly recommend Action Photo Tours.
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   lstuartmd 
 February 10, 2026
 
 
 Verified Action Photo Tours is the best in the industry These guys are excellent. Great photo tours from those doing it as a hobby to professionals. They take you to the best locations and help you with composition and post processing. I've been on several of their tours and can't wait to go on more.
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Mike S 
 November 29, 2025
 
 
 Verified A fun year with Action Photo This has been a fun and busy year with four photo adventures with Action Photo Tours, with the most recent on the Cypress Swamp workshop. The year began with a fun N. Utah winter adventure, followed by two spectacular Milky Way workshops in the Bisti Badlands and White Pocket, and finally the Cypress Swamp. I enjoy the small group size workshop environment and look forward to exploring other APT adventures.
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   snapngo 
 November 22, 2025
 
 
 Verified Coyote Buttes South Sunset Tour While my husband had visited Coyote Buttes South, I had never been there. We chose Action Photo Tours because they are photography oriented and were the only guide service offering a sunset tour. Our guide Kevin is an accomplished photographer and we enjoyed talking with him about photography in this area and other locations in the US. While my husband recognized several formations from his previous trip, Kevin showed us new areas to explore. As a bonus, a group of big horn sheep appeared and almost seemed to pose for us. We stayed til dusk so that we could get great sunset photos.Before visiting Coyote Buttes South, you must obtain a permit from the Bureau of Land Management. There is a limited number of permits to be had, so you must obtain your permit several months in advance of your visit. The roads to Coyote Buttes South are covered with deep sand and are constantly changing. Do not try this route on your own in a typical rental SUV. Rather than risk getting stuck or breaking down (it does happen), working with a guide such as Action Photos is invaluable.
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Victor B 
 November 15, 2025
 
 
 Verified Excellent experience I congratulate Action Photo Group for organizing these photography tours. Very well organized, excellent instructors, outstanding service, and above all, very professional.
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Rick D 
 October 12, 2025
 
 
 Verified Great learning experience! Shane McDermott & A.J. Rich of Action Photo Tours were the instructors on two 5-day drone workshops I attended in Sept. & Oct in Utah. Their instruction, patience and professionalism shown in both drone workshops I attended in Hanksville and Kanab, Utah was terrific. I learned a lot about flying, capturing outstanding images & enjoying the comraderie of fellow drone enthusiasts! These workshops were very successful experiences. I look forward to my next Action Photo experience!!!Rick DavisonO’Fallon, IL

David Swindler

Founder - Photography Instructor

David Swindler is an award-winning landscape and wildlife photographer. Among others, he has been recognized by the International Photography Awards, Siena International Photo Awards, International Aerial Photographer of the Year, Sony World Photography Awards, International Landscape Photographer of the Year, and National Geographic. He received a degree in chemical engineering and worked in the semiconductor industry specializing in optics and photolithography. In 2014, he left his day job to follow his true passion. He has traveled to some of the most remote regions of the world and has extensive experience photographing a wide variety of subjects and conditions. As the founder of Action Photo Tours, he finds great satisfaction in helping others learn photography, especially in the wild desert environment near his home in Kanab, UT. David is an expert in night photography and loves to get out and shoot the starry night skies.

Gallery Awards and Media Coverage

Having guided photo tours for years, David is very familiar with many different types of cameras. He is a master with light and composition. But most importantly, his dedication to his clients is what really sets him apart! But don't take our word for it - read what others are saying: Trip Advisor.

Sarah Shumaker

Photography Instructor

Sarah brings a rare combination of backcountry experience, technical camera knowledge, and patient instruction to every workshop she leads. As an avid hiker, canyoneer, and 4x4 explorer, she has spent years traveling through remote corners of the desert Southwest in search of unique perspectives and locations far beyond the standard roadside view.

Her love of photography grew from that time outdoors. The more Sarah explored wild canyons, rugged backroads, and hard-to-reach desert landscapes, the more she wanted to capture those places and share them with others. She enjoys studying maps, scouting new locations, and finding scenes that feel fresh, personal, and full of discovery.

Sarah is especially skilled at night photography and enjoys teaching guests how to photograph the Milky Way and the starry night skies. In the field and classroom, Sarah is often praised for her technical expertise. She is comfortable working with a wide range of camera systems and enjoys helping guests understand their settings, solve problems quickly, and gain confidence with their gear. She also brings strong post-processing skills in Lightroom and Photoshop, helping photographers carry their creative vision from capture to finished image.

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Photographing Toroweap Tuweap Grand Canyon

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White Pocket Action Photo Tours Overnight Camping Night Photography Stars

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Eastern Sierras Fall Autumn Photo Workshop California

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Kenya Wildlife Photo Safari Big Cats Africa

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Kenya by Land Air and Night Photo Safari

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Monument Valley and Native Cultures Photography Workshop

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Alaska Brown Bears Photo Workshop Wildlife Photography Brooks Falls Long Exposure

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Desert Nightscapes Photo Workshop Milky Way Night Photography Tours Utah Arizona Workshops

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Alaska Aurora BorealisFeb 23-Mar 2, 2027

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Alaska Aurora Borealis
Feb 23-Mar 2, 2027

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Feb 23-Mar 5, 2027

From Amazon to Andes
Apr and May, 2027

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Mar 13-18, 2027