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Capture the Bisti Badlands
Milky Way & Landscape Photography Workshop
September 22–26 (Wednesday-Sunday)
The ultimate photography adventure in the Ancient Land of the Navajo People
NatGeo award winning Navajo guide
Small group of five participants • Single Occupancy Room Reserved
In October 2027, we'll venture deep into New Mexico's Bisti Badlands to photograph extraordinary rock formations beneath some of the darkest skies in the Southwest. This unforgettable adventure combines surreal desert landscapes by day with breathtaking Milky Way photography at night, offering the perfect blend of creativity, exploration, and adventure.
Joined by an award-winning Navajo guide recognized by National Geographic, we'll explore remote areas accessed by dirt roads that reveal remarkable sandstone formations and dramatic badlands scenery. Along the way, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the region's rich cultural heritage, fascinating geology, and enduring traditions.
Instruction is immersive and hands-on throughout the workshop, with emphasis on composition, Milky Way photography techniques, and more. I work alongside you in the field to develop your photography skills, inspire your creative vision, and guide your post-processing workflow, giving you the confidence to continue to apply what you’ve learned long after the workshop ends.
From sculpted hoodoos and weathered sandstone to pristine night skies filled with stars, the Bisti Badlands offer photographic opportunities unlike anywhere else in the American Southwest. Join me for an unforgettable experience in one of the most extraordinary and remote landscapes in the West.
WHERE WE WILL TRAVEL
Bisti Badlands
Definition of Badlands: a type of dry terrain where softer sedimentary rocks and clay-rich soils have been extensively eroded. They are characterized by steep slopes, minimal vegetation, lack of a substantial regolith, and high drainage density. Ravines, gullies, buttes, hoodoos and other such geologic forms are common in badlands. The numerous geological features include the remnants of volcanos, buttes, stone wings, hoodoos, and many unusual rock structures.
The Bisti Badlands adjoin the great Navajo Indian Reservation, and features, such as Shiprock hold great significance as both spiritual and cultural monuments. Always respect these areas, some of which are restricted to visitors, unless accompanied by a Navajo guide.
The formations, colors, and textures offer a wide range of photographic compositions at all times of day, and provide fascinating foregrounds for landscape and nightscape photography.
New Mexico USA
September
22-26, 2027
$2,295
5 Participants
Moderate
Rent a 4X4/AWD
Trip Snapshot
Weather, local conditions, and other factors may require changes to the itinerary.
September 22, 2027: Meet & Greet in Farmington, Shiprock Sunset and Night Photography
We’ll meet at 2:00 p.m. at our host hotel in Farmington, New Mexico, for introductions and a brief workshop overview. After the meet-and-greet, you’ll have time to check into your room and prepare for our first outing. We’ll then travel with our experienced Navajo guide to Shiprock, where we’ll explore this remarkable landscape before photographing the iconic monolith through golden hour, sunset, blue hour, and beneath the stars from a special location nearby.
September 23, 2027: Sunrise in the Bisti Badlands, Post-Processing Techniques, Sunset and Stars
We rise early and head to a spectacular desert landscape filled with unusual formations, intricate textures, and colorful layers. We will photograph the area through sunrise and spend time exploring its many compositional possibilities while the morning light remains favorable.
After lunch, we’ll meet for a session in our reserved room to explore post-processing techniques. Later we’ll plan another adventure under the stars at a spectacular new location.
September 24, 2027: Sunset and Milky Way Photography in the Heart of the Badlands
Following a restful start to our day, we'll gather once again for a post-processing session, where you'll have the opportunity to refine your images and build on the techniques discussed the previous day. Later in the afternoon, we'll hike into the badlands for another unforgettable evening of sunset and Milky Way photography.
September 25, 2027: Signature Presentation: A New Approach to Composition, Final Night Under the Stars
Mid-morning we’ll gather in the meeting room for a special presentation on composition, introducing The Hook Effect, my fresh approach to creating more compelling compositions. We’ll spend one final evening exploring and photographing Bisti landscapes through golden hour, sunset, blue hour, and beneath the Milky Way before returning to Farmington.
September 26, 2027: Farewell Breakfast
We'll conclude the workshop over breakfast in Farmington and say our goodbyes. Following the workshop, you'll be invited to our included post-workshop virtual tutorial and image review, extending the workshop experience from the field to your home.
Use code USA250
to Save $250—Ends August 15
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Allow Me to Introduce Myself
It is my privilege to share my knowledge of photography with you—a passion instilled in me by my late father and mentor, Lowell Anson Kenyon, who served as Chief of the Office of Photography for the Smithsonian Institution.
My teaching style is upbeat, enthusiastic, and encouraging. Whether you're seeking hands-on instruction or thoughtful guidance, I strive to create a positive learning environment that nurtures your creativity while building a strong foundation in photographic technique. My goal isn't simply to help you take better photographs—it's to help you see the landscape more intentionally, recognize compelling opportunities, and develop the confidence to create images that reflect your own unique vision.
I hope to share not only my passion for creating compelling photographs, but also the joy of allowing yourself to be captivated by the beauty of the landscape—to slow down, connect with nature, and appreciate the remarkable places we have the privilege to explore.
These workshops are designed for photographers who enjoy adventure and want to maximize their time in the field. Rather than spending valuable daylight hours indoors, I reserve more formal instruction and image review for a post-workshop group Zoom session. By then, you'll be rested, have had time to review your photographs, and can select your favorite images for thoughtful discussion and feedback. The session also includes a post-processing tutorial, where I share techniques specifically suited to the subjects and conditions we photographed during the workshop.
I hope you'll join me, where creating lasting memories is every bit as important as filling your memory cards with unforgettable images.
See What Other Workshop Participants
Had to Say About Their Experience
We plan to explore breathtaking scenery
Shiprock, Alien Throne, Cracked Eggs, Stone Wings
I can’t wait to share some of my favorite locations with you!
Use code USA250
to Save $250—Ends August 15
Matt R.
★★★★★
Arches N.P. Workshop – 2019
I attended Christine’s “Capture the Night” workshop in Arches National Park during the Nightscaper Conference. Christine was great to work with and made sure that everyone walked away with a photo they were happy with. She pushed me to try new techniques and get out of my comfort zone. During the workshop, I generated my first blended foreground using some tips from Christine. The result is my favorite photo from my trip to Arches, and it was nominated as a finalist in an international photo competition! I thoroughly enjoyed shooting and chatting with Christine until the early light of dawn.
Testimonials
Kialo Winters, Navajo Tours USA
★★★★★
Christine Kenyon has a good eye for composition. Her workshop participants are so lucky!
Dan. D.
★★★★★
Capture Colorado Fall – 2021
Aside from Christine's infectious enthusiasm for landscape photography, she has incredible command of all aspects of the field of photography. This includes technical competency with any type of camera/gear, artistic composition, and post processing expertise.
We plan to explore breathtaking scenery
Shiprock, Alien Throne, Cracked Eggs, Stone Wings
I can’t wait to share some of my favorite locations with you!
Behind the Scenes
WORKSHOP AT A GLANCE
PHOTOGRAPHY LEVEL: Beginner-Advanced
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Moderate activity with treks approximately two-three miles round trip on sandy/rocky, hilly terrain
TERRAIN: Sandy and rocky terrain, generally flat, with dangerous cliffs in some areas; All locations will be accessed by paved and dirt roads
ALTITUDE: 6,300’
CLIMATE: Typically clear skies. Highs in October average 67°; Lows 42° — Dress in layers
NEAREST TOWN(S): Farmington, NM
AIRPORT(S): Farmington, Durango
TRANSPORTATION: All workshop locations are accessible by stock, high-clearance, All wheel drive or four-wheel drive rental vehicles.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Single occupancy rooms have been reserved at the Comfort Suites in Farmington, NM. Please reference the Christine Kenyon workshop to access our reserved room block. A credit card is required to secure your booking.
ASTRONOMICAL SNAPSHOT (approximate)
MORNING
Blue Hour: 6:43 a.m. - 6:53 a.m.
Golden Hour: 6:53 a.m. - 7:43 a.m.
Sunrise: 7:09 a.m.
EVENING
Golden Hour: 6:21 p.m. - 7:11 p.m.
Sunset: 6:55 p.m.
Blue Hour: 7:11 p.m. - 7:21 p.m.
Milky Way: 8:22 p.m. - 10:43 p.m.
What’s Included?
All permits and park fees.
Professional photographic guiding and instruction.
Detailed itinerary is emailed to you approximately 45 days before your trip. Includes “Capture the Night” my guide to nightsky photography (PDF).
Pre-trip Zoom orientation scheduled approximately 30 days prior to the workshop start date..
Post-workshop virtual image review and post-processing session for the group, scheduled two-three weeks following the trip.
What’s Not Included?
Lodging. While private single occupancy lodging is reserved for you, the cost of your stay must be paid by you at the time of check-in.
No ground transportation, or transportation to or from the workshop.
No food/beverages will be provided
There may be little or no cellphone coverage at the workshop locations
Any meals or accommodations before or after the workshop dates.
Medical Evacuation Insurance
Travel Medical
Travel Medical and Trip Cancellation Insurance (optional, but recommended).
What to Bring?
Please reference my: Prepping for Your Workshop
Is Anything Required?
You are responsible for knowing your way around your camera and its menu system. My time with each of you will be spent learning to capture great images. Please do not burden others, and get less out of this event yourself – know and practice your camera, especially if you will be using any new gear on this trip. I truly desire for you to get the most out of your workshop.
Ability to shoot in a variety of weather and environmental conditions from bright sun to summer storms and at elevations ranging from near sea level to over 10,000 feet in elevation, depending on the workshop.
The ability to hike one to three miles per day over uneven, hilly terrain.
Realistically assess your overall physical conditioning
The ability to remain flexible to make the most out of the often changing environmental conditions.
The ability to work well with others in a group setting.
Our group must stay together. Please do not wander off without telling me of your where abouts. We will be in areas with potential hazards that include exposed cliffs, unstable terrain, and wildlife.
You are responsible for knowing and following all park or jurisdictional rules. Leave No Trace. Let’s leave it better than it was! Thank you!
Payment Terms
Your deposit of $1,195 will reserve your spot.
The remaining balance is due 120 days prior to the workshop.
All standard Terms and Conditions apply.
Use code USA250
to Save $250—Ends August 15