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Utah Badlands by Land & Air
Landscape Photography Workshop
October 11 – 15 (Monday – Friday)
Capture this otherworldly terrain from every perspective
Small group of five participants • Single Occupancy Room Reserved
Join me on this captivating five-day workshop exploring the heart of Utah's otherworldly Badlands. As fall light bathes the rugged landscapes and brilliant cottonwoods bring the desert to life, you'll have a unique opportunity to capture the raw beauty of this remarkable region from the perspective of your camera and your drone. I've been flying DJI drones since the early days of consumer drone photography, beginning with the DJI Phantom 2 in 2013. Designed for a small group, this immersive workshop provides personalized guidance and plenty of time in the field.
This workshop is designed for photographers who are already comfortable flying their drones and want to spend less time searching for locations and more time creating exceptional aerial photographs and cinematic video. Rather than focusing on basic flight instruction, our emphasis is on composition, perspective, and making the strongest images possible. My role is to guide you to exceptional locations, help you make the most of changing light and conditions, and provide photographic guidance throughout the workshop.
For many participants, this will be their first visit to the Hanksville area. Rather than rushing from one location to the next, we'll focus on creating exceptional imagery at carefully selected locations. Because this workshop is designed first and foremost to help you create outstanding aerial photographs and video, we'll hold regular image review sessions throughout the week. These informal discussions allow us to evaluate composition, light, altitude, perspective, and movement while the experience is still fresh. What we learn together may influence where we photograph next, whether changing conditions suggest revisiting a particularly rewarding location, or how we approach the next landscape.
Because weather, wind, light, and the group's progress all play an important role in aerial photography, our itinerary remains intentionally flexible. Our goal isn't simply to visit as many locations as possible—it's to give you the time, guidance, and flexibility to create your strongest work. By adapting to changing conditions and the group's progress, we can make the most of every opportunity the landscape provides.
WHERE WE WILL TRAVEL
Utah 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 rocks towers, and spires which are a product of extensive weathering, spires are highly eroded rock towers that are composed of a harder rock above layers of softer, less resistant strata. The formations, colors, and textures offer a wide range of photographic compositions at all times of day, and provide fascinating foregrounds for nightscape photography.
The Mars Societyoperates afacility (Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS)) in the badlands. Here, interplanetary travel can be simulated with a crew of 6 to 8 people for several months at a time. Note the MDRS is a closed scientific facility and is not open to the public, so please respect their work and do not wander onto their campus
Utah USA
October
11-15, 2027
$2,195
5 Participants
Moderate
Rent a 4X4/AWD
Trip Snapshot
Weather, local conditions, and other factors may require changes to the itinerary.
Bring both your drone and your camera gear. We'll take advantage of the best flying opportunities throughout the workshop while also photographing Utah's spectacular desert landscapes from the ground whenever conditions—or the location itself—offer the best creative opportunities.
October 11, 2027: Arrival in Hanksville, Welcome Gathering, Sunset at Factory Butte
We will meet at 2:00 p.m. at Duke’s Slick Rock Grill in Hanksville for introductions and an overview of the workshop. Participants staying at the Whispering Sands Motel may be able to check in early before our meetup.
To kick things off, we’ll travel to the Factory Butte area to capture dramatic aerial and ground-based images through sunset and golden hour before returning to town.
October 12, 2027: Sunrise at Skyline Rim, Image review and Fall Color
On our first full day, we'll head into the field, pre-dawn, to photograph the areas’ otherworldly landscapes, chasing the morning light after sunrise. Following breakfast, we'll get together for a couple of hours for image review., and discuss composition and technique.
We later explore the area's scenic fall landscapes in peak color, where vibrant autumn hues contrast boldly against the cool tones of the badlands.
October 13, 2027: Sunrise at Factory Butte and Workshop Discussion
We again rise before the sun to adventure out to a local treasure for sunrise and golden hour, and revel in the dawn of a new day. After breakfast we’ll again gather for image review, and provide assistance and guidance to improve your work,
We head out in the afternoon to explore the region and capture the heart of the badlands.
October 14, 2027: The Pinnacle at Sunset
We’ll spend most of our day in the field, exploring, run&gun style,
Midday, we’ll gather for a workshop session focused on post-processing techniques, workflow, and participant questions before heading back into the field.
We will travel to a dramatic rock spire surrounded by towering sandstone walls. We will have time to explore the area and photograph the changing light through golden hour, and sunset.
October 15, 2027: Optional Sunrise and Farewell Breakfast
If conditions warrant, we’ll plan an optional sunrise outing. Otherwise we’ll gather for a farewell breakfast at Duke’s Slickrock Grill before saying our goodbyes.
Drone photography is possible at certain workshop locations where regulations and conditions permit.
Use code USA250
to Save $250—Ends August 15
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.
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We plan to explore breathtaking scenery:
Factory Butte, Moonscape Overlook, the Pinnacle,
Bentonite Hills, and more
I can’t wait to share some of my favorite locations!
Use code USA250
to Save $250—Ends August 15
Testimonials
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.
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.
See What Other Workshop Participants
Had to Say About Their Experience
Behind the Scenes
WORKSHOP AT A GLANCE
PHOTOGRAPHY LEVEL: Beginner–Advanced
DRONE PILOT LEVEL: Intermediate-Advanced (Please have all required registrations or licensing)
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Moderate activity with treks approximately two miles round trip on sandy/rocky 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: 4,300’
CLIMATE: Typically clear skies. Highs in October average 70°; Lows 40° — Dress in layers
NEAREST TOWN(S): Hanksville, UT
AIRPORT(S): Salt Lake City International Airport, Canyonlands Regional Airport
TRANSPORTATION: All locations are accessible by stock high-clearance, four-wheel drive vehicles
ACCOMMODATIONS: Your room is reserved at the Whispering Sands Motel in Hanksville, UT. Please reference the Christine Kenyon workshop to access our group reservations. A credit card will be required to secure your booking.
ASTRONOMICAL SNAPSHOT (approximate)
MORNING
Blue Hour: 7:06 a.m. - 7:17 a.m.
Golden Hour: 7:17 a.m. - 8:10 a.m.
Sunrise: 7:34 a.m.
EVENING
Golden Hour: 5:56 p.m. - 6:48 p.m.
Sunset: 6:32 p.m.
Blue Hour: 6:48 p.m. - 6:59 p.m.
What’s Included?
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?
The cost of lodging is not included in the workshop fee. Reservations and/or lodging arrangements have been made for your single-occupancy rooms during the trip. Upon registration, you will receive complete lodging information to secure your rooms.
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 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 whereabouts. 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