MOAB's wild west
Moab Western Photography Workshop
April 14-15, 2025: SOLD OUT
Cost: $1250 total ($450 deposit due at sign-up)
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Join me at an authentic working cattle ranch on the outskirts of Moab, Utah to capture beautiful western and desert scenes. You'll have the opportunity to capture cowboys on horses, working cattle scenes in the desert landscape with a mountain backdrop and more. We'll spend the introductory session on the evening of the 14th to work on camera techniques and composition. On the 15th, enjoy two immersive shooting sessions at the ranch with time in between for post-processing insights Don't miss this unique western photography workshop!
Experience Level
Beginner - Advanced
Both beginners & experienced photographers will benefit from this workshop. I will work closely with you to address strengths and weaknesses. All can expect to be challenged.
Endurance
Easy to Moderate
All age levels are welcome on this photography workshop. Very light hiking is involved. We’ll drive to each location then walk to the best position. *Reach out if you have any limitations.
Curriculum
Field & Classroom
We will be in the field shooting for sunrise and sunset with classroom time & breaks during the day. Learn techniques such as focus stacking, moving subjects, advanced camera settings & more!
Group Size
12 people
I prefer to keep workshops small, ensuring that each person will have ample time for one-on-one instruction. This photography workshop is limited to 12 people.
MASTERING MOVEMENT
In this photography workshop, we will spend 2 shoots at an authentic working cattle ranch. I will share methods for capturing the rapid movement of running horses while focusing on the composition of the cowboys and landscape. This will include composing on the move, setting up your camera, lighting conditions, safety, and more.
2 SHOOTS AT THE RANCH!
Plus Classroom Sessions • Hands-on Instruction • Posing & Directing of Cowboys
Majestic Mountain Backdrop Included
Rare do you find the opportunity to shoot action western scenes with the perfect mountain backdrop. Dan will direct the cowboys/cowgirls to set the best scene for photography.
IN THE CLASSROOM
We will be out shooting and exploring during sunrise and sunset to ensure we find the best conditions. During daytime hours we will have classroom time where we will focus on photography concepts and techniques.
Image Composition
Learning how to compose an image is one of the most important elements of photography and probably one of the hardest to master. Starting with this class and continuing throughout the workshop, I will teach you simple and actionable skills that will help you find amazing compositions in any environment.
Creative Editing
We will go through my editing process from beginning to end using a combination of mostly Lightroom with some fairly easy but extremely powerful Photoshop to finish it off. My editing method is very artistic and effective for beginners and advanced users alike. It is always one of the highlights of the workshop.
Portfolio Feedback
Getting honest and constructive feedback about your images is extremely hard to find. At the end of every workshop I will dig into 15-20 of your best shots to give you insightful critique on how to improve. While these sessions are honest, I guarantee you will go away inspired with new ideas and thoughts on making great images.
Years of Experience with Sony, Nikon, and Canon Gear
other brands welcome
Photography Workshop Schedule
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DAY 1 - April 14: On Monday, we will meet at 4:30 PM at the hotel to kick off the workshop with introductions and an overview. We'll start with a composition class led by Dan, where you'll learn his techniques for capturing Western landscapes. Then, we will dive getting your camera settings dialed in for morning lighting and movement, ensuring you're ready for the shoots at the ranch tomorrow. End with a Q&A to address any last questions and prepare for an inspiring day ahead.
DAY 2 - April 15: On Tuesday, we’ll start before dawn and head to La Sal Ranch for a morning shoot, capturing working cowboys and cowgirls in action. After breakfast and a break, we’ll reconvene for a classroom session focused on image processing in Lightroom. Later, we’ll return to the ranch for a sunset shoot, capturing the desert's golden light with dynamic poses from our ranch hands. ​​
Planning Your Trip: Hotel & Transportation
​Please note that transportation and accommodations are NOT included and is up to each individual participant.
Hotel: I have pre-booked rooms at the Hyatt Place Moab to ensure availability for our group. After sign-up you will receive an email with information about how to book your stay.
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Car: We will be carpooling to the ranch on Tuesday. If you won't have your personal vehicle, I highly recommend renting a vehicle so you can also explore on your own before/after the workshop.
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Flights: Flights: The closest large airport is in Salt Lake City which is about a 4-hour drive from Moab. Boutique Airlines usually has daily flights to Moab (Canyonlands Field CNY) from Salt Lake or Denver.
Incredible Desert Landscape
Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the rugged beauty and captivating charm of the desert Western lifestyle.