Wild Alaska Bear Camp

Aug 12-17, 2027

Aug 17-22, 2027

Experience Alaska’s wild bear country on an unforgettable 6-day photography adventure with the peak runs of the red sockeye salmon! We'll spend four nights at a fully outfitted wilderness camp, giving us exceptional access to brown bears as they chase, catch, and feast on salmon. With just five guests per group, you'll enjoy personalized instruction and the flexibility to follow the best wildlife action and light. We'll have a dedicated bear guard with the group at all times. Your adventure includes scenic charter flights, delicious meals, an individual sleeping tent, and an arrival night at King Salmon Lodge. Expect 3–6 miles of walking per day over uneven terrain, earning this workshop its "Active" rating. Best of all, it's all-inclusive from your arrival in King Salmon through your return!

Tuition

$9,300
All-Inclusive
All Charter Flights

Max Group Size

Max 5 Students

Instructor(s)

Josh Miller*
David Swindler*

Physical Intensity

Alaska Bears and Red Salmon Photo Workshop

Highlights

Immersive Bear Country Experience – Spend four nights camping deep in Alaska’s brown bear habitat, giving us extended time in the field and an unforgettable wilderness experience.

Prime Morning & Evening Light – Staying on location puts us in position to photograph bears during the beautiful early morning and late evening light.

Perfect Timing for Red Salmon – Our dates are timed around peak sockeye runs, creating exciting opportunities to photograph bears fishing for brilliant red salmon.

Fully Outfitted Wilderness Camp – Tents, meals, camp logistics, safety equipment, solar chargers, and other essentials are provided so you can focus on photography and the experience.

Maximum Time in the Field – Camping on location eliminates daily flights and allows us to adapt quickly to changing weather, light, and bear activity.

Small Group, Big Benefits – With just 5 guests and one professional instructor, enjoy personalized guidance and learn the essentials of fast-action photograpy

Remote Alaska Adventure – Experience a side of Alaska few visitors ever see, surrounded by wild rivers, mountains, tundra, and exceptional bear habitat.

Full Time Camp Host and Bear Guard - A staff member will stay at camp full time and an armed bear guard will accompany the group in the field.

Charter Flight Included - The flight to the wilderness camp is included.

Book Now - Aug 12-17

Book Now - Aug 17-22

Itinerary

Day 1 – Welcome to King Salmon

Arrive in King Salmon, Alaska, where transportation will be provided from the airport to the lodge. Alaska Airlines offers multiple daily flights from Anchorage, and we'll share recommended flight options during our pre-workshop Zoom meeting. That evening, we'll enjoy a delicious dinner, review our gear, discuss the adventure ahead, and settle into our comfortable rooms.

Day 2 – Into the Bear Country Wilderness

After breakfast, we'll head to the airport for our scenic charter flight deep into Katmai National Park. We'll land on a remote wilderness lake, where our fully outfitted camp will already be waiting! With no need to set up tents, we can head straight into the field to photograph bears fishing for brilliant red sockeye salmon. Our dates coincide with the peak salmon runs, offering outstanding opportunities for action photography. After an exciting first day, we'll return to camp for a hearty dinner and settle into our individual tents.

Day 3 – Bears, Salmon, and Incredible Action

We'll head out early if conditions favor beautiful morning light, exploring nearby streams where bears gather to feast on spawning salmon. Watch for dramatic fishing encounters, playful interactions, and intimate wildlife portraits. Your guides will help locate the best activity while you work on creative compositions and capturing decisive moments. We may return to camp for lunch and a short break before heading out again, potentially photographing well into the evening.

Days 4 & 5 – Exploring Deeper into Bear Country

We have two more full days of unforgettable bear photography! Depending on weather and bear activity, we may venture farther along the waterways to explore different fishing areas or elevated viewpoints overlooking the action. Every day brings new opportunities as bears move through the landscape and salmon concentrations shift. We'll remain flexible, taking advantage of everything from soft, overcast light to dramatic evening conditions. Expect approximately 3–6 miles of walking each day over uneven wilderness terrain.

Day 6 – Final Bear Encounters and Return to King Salmon

We'll make the most of our final morning with one last photography session before returning to camp for lunch. In the early afternoon, we'll board our charter flight back to King Salmon, typically arriving by mid-afternoon.

Guests may choose to catch an evening Alaska Airlines flight to Anchorage or independently book another night in King Salmon. For those extending their stay, a visit to Brooks Falls via water taxi the following day is a fantastic option! Although salmon jumping at the falls can be sporadic in August, Brooks Camp remains a fascinating destination with excellent potential for bear viewing.

Logistics

King Salmon Alaska is our arrival and departure hub. Alaska Airlines has several flights between King Salmon and Anchorage each day. Due to the unpredictability of Alaska weather, we do NOT recommend purchasing airfare that cannot be changed. There is always the possibility we could be delayed coming back from camp and you may have to move your flights to the following day.

*Josh Miller is instructing the Aug 12-17th group and David Swindler is instructing the Aug 17-22nd group. Both instructors are highly experienced with bears and in the Alaska backcountry.

Once you arrive in King Salmon, transportation is provided from the airport to King Salmon Lodge. Everyone will get a single occupancy room. Dinner will be provided that evening and we'll do a final gear check before retiring for the night.

We'll return to King Salmon early to mid-afternoon on Day 6, allowing you to either catch the evening Alaska Airlines flight back to Anchorage, or you can independently book another night at King Salmon Lodge, pending availability.

If you stay an extra night in King Salmon, you can always take the water taxi the following day to visit Brooks Falls. While bear activity and salmon jumping at Brooks Falls can be limited in August, it's still a fascinating destination to explore. Bear sightings are never guaranteed, and advance reservations on the water taxi are recommended.

To protect your investment in this trip, we STRONGLY suggest you purchase Travel Insurance. The right policy should also cover emergency medical and evacuation coverage.

In lieu of an in-person orientation session, we will hold a zoom meeting with all participants prior to the trip to answer questions and ensure you are setup for success. We don't want any last minute surprises before running to the airport! Once we have the flight info for next year, we will email you detailed information along with checklists for clothing and gear to bring.

Book Now - Aug 12-17

Book Now - Aug 17-22

Your Workshop Experience

Physical Activity

This workshop is rated Active. Field days may involve approximately 3–6 miles of walking over the course of the day while carrying camera equipment and personal items. This is not fast hiking. We move at a slow, steady photography pace, with frequent stops for photography, wildlife viewing, rest, and safe movement.

We will be walking in chest waders each day. Terrain may include creek and stream crossings, mud bogs, wet tundra, gravel bars, uneven ground, and shallow river corridors. Footing can be slippery or uneven, and trekking poles are required for additional stability. Our guides and instructors will help guests navigate unfamiliar terrain.

Some days may be longer and more active, while others may be shorter or less strenuous depending on weather, river conditions, wildlife activity, and the day’s chosen location. Flexibility is an important part of the experience, and guests are welcome to sit out an outing when they would benefit from additional rest or personal time.

Hours and Weather

One of the benefits of doing the camp experience is that we can take advantage of good sunrise and sunset light, weather permitting. On days with better weather, we'll be leaving as early as 6AM. Some evenings we may not return to camp until 11PM. On longer days like this, there will be time for midday rest at the camp (bring an eye mask and ear plugs).

The Camp

Our fully outfitted camp includes individual sleeping tents, comfortable sleeping pads, a shared dining area, camp toilet facilities, and bear-safe food storage. Meals are prepared by our wilderness team, and a battery-powered charging station will help keep camera equipment ready for each day's photography. It's a genuine backcountry experience, but with the essentials taken care of.

There will be a full time camp host and you can always choose to sit out on an outing if you're tired. In addition, we'll have an armed bear guard that will accompany the group while in the field. The sleeping bag is yours to keep after the trip, or you can elect to leave it behind in Alaska. Bear spray will be provided for all participants.

Pricing

$9,300/Person

Trip Includes:

4 nights single occupancy outfitted camping on location with the bears.
1 night single occupancy lodging at King Salmon Lodge
Charter flight to/from the wilderness camp.
All meals, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages.
In-field photography instruction and guiding.
Sleeping bag that is yours to take home after the trip.
Bear spray for each participant.
Full-time camp host and armed bear guard to accompany the group in the field.
Charging equipment for camera batteries and phones.
Sleeping bag - yours to keep after the workshop.
Pre-Workshop Zoom Meeting

Trip Does NOT Include:

Transportation to/from your home to King Salmon, AK.
Alcoholic beverages.
Gratuities for Instructors, Local Guides and/or Pilots.
Additional lodging beyond the included arrival night

Book Now - Aug 12-17

Book Now - Aug 17-22

The Fine Print

25% deposit required to hold your spot.
Another 50% payment is due 3/1/2027.
Remaining balance is due 5/1/2027.
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 for this workshop.
Loyalty discounts are not available for this workshop.
See the full Terms and Conditions

Recommended Gear

We'll provide a detailed packing list before the workshop.

Clothing & Field Gear

Chest waders and trekking poles – Both are required for navigating wet, uneven terrain.
Waterproof rain jacket with hood, warm insulating layers, and thermal base layers.
Wool or synthetic socks, warm hat, gloves, and a buff.
Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, and bug headnet.

Camera Equipment

Camera body – Two bodies are highly recommended for backup and fewer lens changes.
Midrange zoom lens – Such as 24–70mm, 24–105mm, or 70–200mm.
Telephoto zoom lens – Such as 100–400mm or 200–600mm for close-up bear photography.
Lots of extra camera batteries and memory cards! Bring all necessary chargers and cables.
Camera backpack with rain cover, camera rain sleeves, and a comfortable camera strap or carrying sling.
Lens blower and microfiber cleaning cloths.
Optional: Tripod or monopod and circular polarizing filters.

Personal Accessories

Personal power bank to keep your phone charged.
Toiletries, medications, and personal essentials.
Comfortable lodge clothing, earplugs, and an eye mask if needed.

Important: Floatplane weight allowances are limited, so packing efficiently is essential. We'll provide detailed gear recommendations and review packing strategies during our pre-workshop Zoom meeting.

Book Now - Aug 12-17

Book Now - Aug 17-22

Trusted by Over 900 Reviews

      All reviews
 
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   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.

Josh Miller

Photography Instructor

Josh Miller is a professional outdoor photographer and educator with more than 25 years of experience. His work has taken him around the world on assignments for clients including National Geographic, the Sierra Club, Audubon, Microsoft, The Wall Street Journal, Yukon Tourism, Backpacker, and Outside. In addition to his photography, Josh has written more than 50 articles on outdoor adventure, conservation, and photography for publications worldwide.

Josh currently writes the “Chasing Light” column for Outdoor Photographer Magazine, where he explores photography, conservation, ethics, and the creative process. He is also deeply committed to environmental stewardship and regularly contributes his photography and expertise to conservation efforts.

Alongside his photography career, Josh is a credentialed art and science teacher in California. He and his wife spent 17 years running an environmentally focused high school academy in Northern California, where both were recognized as Teachers of the Year.

Drawing on his experience as both a photographer and educator, Josh creates a welcoming, supportive learning environment for photographers of all skill levels. He enjoys helping guests strengthen their artistic vision, build confidence, and develop a deeper connection to the landscapes they photograph.

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.