Polar Bears and Arctic Wildlife

Mar 22-28, 2027 - Sold Out

Mar 26-Apr 1, 2027 - 1 Spot Left!!

Book Now>Mar 26-April 1, 2027

Access one of the most remote and wildlife-rich regions of Baffin Island—far beyond established tourist routes and completely free of other tour operators. Reached by private charter ski plane, we operate from a custom-built expedition camp set deep in the Arctic wilderness, prioritizing time in the field, flexibility, and authentic wildlife encounters. Designed for adventurous photographers, this exclusive experience offers rare opportunities to photograph polar bears, walrus, ringed and bearded seals, whales, Arctic fox, and other Arctic wildlife—immersed in a pristine sea ice environment beneath vast, untouched Arctic skies, where the aurora borealis often dances overhead.

Tuition

$14,500

Max Group Size

Max 4 Students

Instructor(s)

David Swindler

Physical Intensity

Highlights

Ultra-Small Group - Just four photographers with one pro instructor.

Rare Arctic Access - Private charter flights deliver us to a remote, wildlife-rich region of Baffin Island far from tourist routes.

Iconic Arctic Wildlife - Photograph polar bears, walrus, bearded seals, whales, and Arctic land mammals including fox, wolves, and caribou.

Expedition-Style Arctic Glamping - Four nights in a basic but comfortable remote camp with heated, clear-walled sleeping domes.

Aurora Borealis - Dark Arctic skies allow for northern lights photography directly from camp when conditions are right.

True Adventure - Join a wildlife-focused expedition prioritizing access and photographic opportunity over catered comforts.

Book Now>Mar 26-April 1, 2027

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Iqaluit at any time today. No formal workshop activities are scheduled, allowing time to rest and acclimate after your travels. Optional local experiences such as dog mushing or a guided tundra walk may be available, with ground transportation provided. Overnight hotel accommodation is included.

Day 2: After breakfast, we leave civilization behind and board a private charter ski-equipped aircraft bound for an exceptionally remote and wildlife-rich region of Baffin Island—far beyond established tourist routes.

Upon landing, our expedition ground team meets us with a covered, heated all-terrain vehicle purpose-built for snow and sea ice travel. Cameras come out immediately as wildlife scouting begins en route to our exclusive, custom-built Arctic camp. After camp orientation and settling in, we head back out for our first dedicated wildlife safari in this pristine ice environment.

Days 3-5: Three full days are dedicated to immersive wildlife and landscape photography. Our primary focus is on Arctic marine mammals, including polar bears, walrus, bearded and ringed seals, and whales moving along the ice edge. We’ll also watch for terrestrial species such as Arctic fox, wolves, and caribou traveling the surrounding tundra and sea ice.

With no competing operators in the region, our days are flexible and dictated by wildlife behavior, ice conditions, and light. If skies are clear, evening opportunities may include photographing the aurora borealis dancing above the frozen Arctic landscape.

Day 6: Following a final wildlife outing, we return to the airstrip for our private charter flight back to Iqaluit. The afternoon and evening are free to relax, review images, and reflect on the experience. Overnight hotel accommodation is included.

Day 7: Departure day. You may schedule your return travel at any time today, with ground transportation provided to Iqaluit Airport.

Book Now>Mar 26-April 1, 2027

Polar Bears and Arctic Wildlife Photo Workshop

Logistics

Plan to arrive in Iqaluit, Nunavut (YFB) at any time on Day 1. No workshop activities are scheduled that day. Ground transportation from the airport to the hotel is included, along with any optional local activities such as dog mushing or hiking in a nearby park. Return travel may be scheduled for any time on Day 7, with ground transportation provided back to Iqaluit Airport.

Canadian North Airlines serves Iqaluit. It is very unlikely you will be able to book a single itinerary from your home city directly to Iqaluit. Most travelers should plan to fly to Ottawa the day prior, overnight at an airport hotel, and continue to Iqaluit the following day. The same routing typically applies on the return.

This workshop is not for everyone. It is an expedition-style Arctic experience designed for adventurous photographers who are comfortable operating in a remote, wilderness environment. We will spend four nights camping in a wildlife-rich region of Baffin Island, far from any permanent infrastructure or other tour operators.

Our camp is comfortable but basic, featuring heated sleeping accommodations, a shared bathroom setup, and a communal meal tent. This is not a luxury experience—the emphasis is on maximum time in the field and meaningful wildlife encounters rather than amenities or comfort.

Hearty, warming meals are provided throughout the expedition. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice, though food will be simple and practical. There are no showers at camp, as melting and heating sufficient fresh water is not feasible—this is standard for remote Arctic expeditions.

Access to camp is via a private Twin Otter charter aircraft on skis from Iqaluit. Luggage space is limited, and participants should pack carefully. A waterproof duffel bag works best. Any excess luggage or non-essential items may be securely stored at the hotel in Iqaluit.

Drone photography can be excellent in this environment, particularly for marine wildlife and ice landscapes. All drone use must comply with Canadian regulations, avoid disturbing wildlife, and is subject to weather conditions and guide approval.

Book Now>Mar 26-April 1, 2027

Arctic Wildlife Photo Workshop Arctic Fox

Who This Trip Is For

This experience is designed for adventurous photographers drawn to remote Arctic environments and immersive wildlife encounters. It is ideally suited for those who value exclusivity, flexibility, extended time in the field, and a simplified expedition-style routine over comfort or convenience.

Who This Trip Isn’t For

This trip is not a good fit for travelers seeking luxury accommodations, a fixed daily schedule, or a highly catered experience. It may also not be suitable for those who require constant connectivity, predictable conditions, or traditional sightseeing rather than a true wilderness expedition.

Additional Info

Our primary focus is on Arctic marine mammals, including polar bears, walrus, bearded seals, and several species of whales. We will also watch for Arctic fox, caribou, and potentially wolves. Long days in the field are planned to maximize wildlife opportunities. This time of year also offers the possibility of encountering polar bears with small cubs.

Wildlife encounters are inherently unpredictable, and safety is always the top priority. All decisions regarding field activities are made by the guide and are final. Travel and evacuation insurance are required for participation. Due to Arctic weather and operating conditions, charter flights may be delayed, which could require flexibility with return travel plans.

There is no cell service or Wi-Fi while in camp. A satellite communication device will be available for emergencies, and a generator will provide limited power for charging camera batteries and small electronics. Charging opportunities are shared, typically in double-occupancy arrangements.

Book Now>Mar 26-April 1, 2027

The Weather

Temperatures can be well below freezing, and wind exposure can significantly increase how cold it feels. We'll hold a zoom meeting with all participants to go over gear and clothing requirements a few months before the workshop. We'll also send out a detailed packing list to help you get ready.

The tents at camp along with the snow rover vehicle will be heated and comfortable. However, it can get cold when we are out photographing for an extended time period. We will help ensure you are well prepared for this adventure.

Accommodations

Sleeping accommodations consist of small, heated, clear-walled domes with visibility to the night sky, each equipped with a 4-inch ground mattress and a very warm Arctic-rated sleeping bag.

There are 2 domes available for single occupancy (see Pricing Section) and 1 dome for double occupancy same-gender share. The domes are small so that the heating is most efficient. Do not expect a large area to spread out in.

To use the restroom, you will have to exit your dome and go to the communal restroom tent. Eye-covers and ear plugs are highly recommended to ensure you get a good night's sleep. This workshop is not ideal for those with a CPAP machine.

Book Now>Mar 26-April 1, 2027

Pricing

$14,500/Person + Tax

Trip Includes:

Charter flight to/from our remote camp on Baffin Island
Naturalist guide along with Inuit guides.
2 Nights Single Occupancy Hotel in Iqaluit, Nunavut.
4 Nights Fully Outfitted Camp on Baffin Island.
Heated, clear, sleeping domes with a 4-inch mattress and warm Arctic-rated sleeping bag. Two single domes are available for an additional $1,000.
All meals, beverages, and snacks from when we board the charter flight on Day 2 to when we deplane on Day 6.
Ground transportation in a heated ATV specially designed for snow and ice.
In-field and classroom instruction by a pro photographer.
All permits and entrance fees.
Airport transfers along with transfers to any tourist activies in Iqaluit.
Pre-workshop zoom meeting.

Trip Does NOT Include:

Transportation from your home to Iqaluit, Nunavut.
Meals, beverages, and snacks prior to or after the charter flight.
Travel and Evacuation Insurance.
Instructor and guide gratuities.

The Fine Print:

25% deposit required to hold your spot.
50% payment is due on Sept 22, 2026.
Remaining balance is due Nov 22, 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.
We cannot offer the Loyalty Discount on this workshop.
See the full Terms and Conditions

Book Now>Mar 26-April 1, 2027

Recommended Camera Gear

Digital SLR or mirrorless camera body with fast frame rate and good autofocus performance. Bring 2 camera bodies if you have them.
Long telephoto lens capable of at least 500-600mm. We recommend zoom lenses for maximum versatility.
Mid-range lens in the 24-70mm, 24-105mm range.
Wide angle lens f/2.8 for night photography.
Tripod and L-bracket for your camera.
Backpack to carry your camera gear.
Waterproof cover for your backpack and camera.
Extra batteries, memory cards, and cleaning supplies.
Laptop if you wish to backup your photos or do any post-processing.

Personal Gear List

Warm, moisture wicking base layers for both upper and lower body.
Several warm layers like a down puffy, winter coat, and or fleece jacket.
Waterproof outer shell jacket (helps protect against wind and snow).
Warm snow boots with thick socks.
Waterproof snow pants with cuff that can go over your boots. If your pants do not have a cuff, make sure you get some gaiters to wear.
Warm gloves or mittens along with a pair of glove liners.
Warm hat, buff, or balaclava.
Micro-spikes. Make sure you get the ones with actual spikes on them (no rollers or Yak-Tracks).
Sunglasses or goggles and sunscreen for sunny days. The light reflecting off the snow can be intense.
Chemical hand/feet warmers can come in handy if you get cold extremities.
Thermos for bringing along your favorite hot beverage.
Headlamp for night photography.
Eye-mask and ear plugs for sleeping.

Arctic Wildlife Photo Workshop Bearded Seal

Trusted by Over 900 Reviews

      All reviews
 
   Google
 
   Tripadvisor
 
 
  
 
 
 
  Excellent4.9977 reviews
 4.9
 Excellent977 reviews
 
    
 Excellent4.9392 reviews
 4.9
 Excellent392 reviews
 
    
 Excellent4.9585 reviews
 4.9
 Excellent585 reviews
 
 
 
   
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Ann Hopta 
 November 5, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have been on three Action Photo Tour’s trips. That, in itself should say that I’m impressed and have enjoyed these trips. The leaders on all three trips were there to teach/help wherever they saw it was needed and to make sure you got memorable photos.

The most recent trip was to the Dolomites in Italy. It was a wonderful trip, well planned, and I have some phenomenal photos from it.

I would not hesitate to book with Action Photo tours again.
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   ahop1 
 November 5, 2026
 
 
 Verified I would travel with them again!
I have been on three trips with Action Photo Tours. On all three trips the leaders were well informed, helpful and insured we got memorable photos. Two of the trips were within the States, while the third trip was to Europe. All trips were organized, and well planned. Needless to say, I would book with them again.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Pat Villa 
 November 2, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The two instructors were humble and helpful. Wendy and Sarah! They had to rearrange the schedule due to flooding the week prior but we still had an amazing opportunity to see a lot
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Cal Huge 
 November 2, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. When I booked the tours, I wanted to learn more about landscape photography and not just look at unusual rock formations and pretty sites.  My hopes and expectations never imagined how fantastic our time with Mark would be.  His experience and knowledge of camera settings and helping me see the shot before I took it was amazing.  I learned much more than I had hoped about framing the photo and how my camera functions than I had hoped.  I am bird/wildlife photographer, and this week expanded my landscape horizons. We had some weather challenges that Mark used his super knowledge to visit places that were not planned but even better for me.  Plus, I celebrated my 84th birthday at Toroweap that was very exciting and truly memorable.  I hope to come back more.
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Cal H 
 November 2, 2026
 
 
 Verified Fantastic
When I booked the tours, I wanted to learn more about landscape photography and not just look at unusual rock formations and pretty sites. My hopes and expectations never imagined how fantastic our time with Mark would be. His experience and knowledge of camera settings and helping me see the shot before I took it was amazing. I learned much more than I had hoped about framing the photo and how my camera functions than I had hoped. I am bird/wildlife photographer, and this week expanded my landscape horizons. We had some weather challenges that Mark used his super knowledge to visit places that were not planned but even better for me. Plus, I celebrated my 84th birthday at Toroweap that was very exciting and truly memorable. I hope to come back more.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mark Zawlocki 
 October 31, 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I attended the 2026 Colorado Fall Colors Workshop in early October and the locations, conditions and itinerary were fantastic! I had never been to this part of Colorado and words cannot describe the beauty.

I was even more impressed with our photography guides Shane and Kevin. They were helpful, accommodating, and made me feel comfortable from the moment I met them. Highly recommend them!

I did have an issue with the hotel room in Crested Butte, which was not the fault of Action Photo Tours. The situation was manageable but I would have been disappointed had we stayed at this location more than 2 nights. The hotel was aware of the issue but their "solution" was unusual and wasteful.  I have shared the specifics with Action Photo for future reference and they noted my comments for future tours.

I will highly recommend this workshop to my photographer friends!! The one common statement said by most of the workshop attendees while shooting in the field was “ this place is amazing!”  I couldn’t agree more!  I have never seen more grown men standing in silence with just smiles on their faces!

I still give a rating of 5 stars based on the photography experiences, which I will never forget.

I look forward to future tours with Action Photo !!
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   John B 
 October 22, 2026
 
 
 Verified Beautiful Newfoundland
Photography workshop was very well planned and executed.
  
 
     Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Ed D 
 October 20, 2026
 
 
 Verified Great overnight tour of White Pocket
I did the overnight tour of White Pocket with Mark as my guide. The trip was great. Conditions for photography were very good as the large storm spawned by the hurricane had just passed through, so lots of ponds and lakes to work with. Mark was an excellent guide. He is very personable and knowledgeable about White Pocket and other sites in the area, took care of all the logistics of the overnight stay, and provided good information and instructions for photography, including night photography. Couldn't be more pleased with the trip.
  
 
     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 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 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.

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, 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.

Altiplano Adventure Photo Workshop South America

12 DAYS

Dec 8-18, 2026 - 1 Spot Left!!

Polar Bears and Arctic Wildlife

Mar 22-28, 2027 - Sold Out

Mar 26-Apr 1, 2027 - 1 Spot Left!!

Tuition

Max Group Size

Instructor(s)

Highlights

Itinerary

Logistics

Who This Trip Is For

Who This Trip Isn’t For

Additional Info

The Weather

Accommodations

Pricing

$14,500/Person + Tax

Recommended Camera Gear

Personal Gear List

David Swindler

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