• glowing canyon light in zion narrows with fall color
1 1

November 2-6‚ 2026 - Sold Out!

Select the dates below to join the waitlist

Workshop Dates

Note: Necessary rental gear for the Narrows provided.

$3,495
$3,495
Save 20% Sold out

Learn More and Sign Up

  • Experience Level

    Beginner to Advanced 

    This workshop is designed for photographers of all skill levels. You'll receive personalized guidance to build on your strengths and overcome weaknesses. Expect to be challenged and grow, regardless of your starting point.

  • Fitness Level

    Moderate to Strenuous

    Our most physically demanding workshop. Hike up to 6 miles daily in the Virgin River, navigating extremely slippery, uneven rocks while wading in water potentially up to thigh-deep. We provide essential canyoneering footwear and a hiking stick for stability. Requires excellent balance, core strength, and solid hiking endurance. Not suitable for those with significant balance or mobility limitations.

    More Info 

  • Creative Focus

    Field Sessions & Classroom Instruction

    Immersive Narrows field sessions (2 days). Intimate landscape exploration. Classroom covers canyon composition, water techniques, focus stacking, and the'Rethink Landscape' processing methodology.

  • Group Size

    Limited to 5 Guests

    We keep our group sizes small to ensure the individual attention you deserve.

  • Location

    Springdale, Utah

    View Map 

  • Fly To

    Las Vegas (LAS) or St. George (SGU)

    Check Flights 

Description

Dive deep into Zion National Park's autumn beauty with this unique workshop balancing the legendary Virgin River Narrows and the park's quieter, intimate scenes. This is our most physically demanding workshop.

Dedicate two full days navigating the Narrows, connecting with its sculpted walls, flowing water, and magical light. This extended time fosters thoughtful observation and unique compositions. The remaining days offer flexibility (crucial for Narrows conditions) to explore Zion's intimate side, broadening your creative vision beyond grand vistas.

Led by David and Jennifer in an ultra-small group (max 5), receive highly personalized guidance. Field time is complemented by classroom sessions featuring image reviews and instruction on our 'Rethink Landscape' processing methodology – a powerful Lightroom system for natural, impactful results. Essential Narrows gear (canyoneering boots, dry pants, etc.) is included.

Join us for an in-depth Zion experience that pushes your creativity in one of the world's most stunning canyons. Requires excellent physical condition and balance.

Meet Your Creative Guides

  • David Kingham

    David is an accomplished professional photographer renowned for his evocative nature imagery. His work showcases intimate landscapes, stunning nightscapes, and masterful black-and-white photography. As the founder of Exploring Exposure, David is dedicated to mentoring aspiring photographers, helping them refine their skills and develop their artistic vision.

    View David's Portfolio 

  • Jennifer Renwick

    Jennifer is a professional photographer renowned for her captivating abstract and small scene imagery. With a keen eye for detail, she uncovers the hidden stories within grand landscapes. Jennifer is passionate about helping fellow photographers discover their unique style and guiding them to express their vision through meaningful projects.

    View Jennifer's Portfolio 

Visual Inspiration

Workshop Highlights & Creative Focus:

  • Two Full Narrows Days: Deep immersion in the iconic canyon for thoughtful exploration and unique compositions.
  • Intimate Landscape Focus: Balance Narrows intensity by discovering Zion's smaller scenes, textures, and abstracts.
  • Ultra-Small Group (Max 5): Unparalleled personalized guidance from two leaders in a demanding environment.
  • Included Narrows Gear: Essential canyoneering boots, dry pants, neoprene socks, and hiking pole provided.
  • Master Canyon Light & Water: Learn techniques for challenging light, reflections, and water movement.
  • Refine with Rethink: Learn the 'Rethink Landscape' Lightroom workflow to craft powerful, natural images.

Logistics:

  • Lodging: Group block secured at a Springdale hotel ($161/night+tax) adjacent to the park. Book directly using info provided upon registration.
  • Transportation: Participants responsible for transport to/from Springdale. Access to Narrows trailhead via mandatory park shuttle. Carpooling encouraged for any potential outings outside the main shuttle route.
  • Included Gear: Rental of essential Narrows gear (canyoneering boots, dry pants, neoprene socks, hiking pole) is included in the workshop fee.

Itinerary

Preparation: Upon registration, a comprehensive itinerary will be sent to you, ensuring all the details are at your fingertips to help you plan your travel arrangements seamlessly.

Day 1: Arrival, Canyon Vision & River Light

  • Meet at 1:00 PM at the hotel (Springdale) for introductions and orientation.
  • Attend the Afternoon Session presentation on Canyon Vision (light, composition, intimates).
  • Coordinate Narrows gear fitting/pickup at a local outfitter in the Late Afternoon.
  • Practice techniques during a field session on the Virgin River banks near the canyon entrance.
  • Join the optional group dinner nearby.

Day 2: Immersion in The Narrows (Part 1)

  • Take an early park shuttle to the Temple of Sinawava to begin the Narrows hike.
  • Engage in a Full Day Exploration upstream, focusing on observation, composition (light, textures, flow), and a slow, deliberate process. Packed lunch within the canyon.
  • Hike out via Late Afternoon Return shuttle. Rest/download images.
  • Dinner on your own.

Day 3: Deeper into The Narrows (Part 2) & Legendary Dining

  • Return via early shuttle for a second Full Day in The Narrows. Explore further upstream (conditions permitting) or refine compositions. Packed lunch within the canyon.
  • Hike out via Late Afternoon Return shuttle. Rest/clean up/download.
  • Enjoy a Group Dinner at Oscar's Cafe to share Narrows experiences.

Day 4: Intimate Zion & Crafting Your Images

  • Explore Intimate Landscapes in the main Zion Canyon via shuttle (non-Narrows locations) during the Morning Field Session.
  • Return to Springdale for Brunch/Lunch & Break.
  • Attend the Afternoon Classroom Session (~1:00 PM - 4:00 PM) for image review (Narrows & Intimates) and learning the Rethink Landscape processing methodology with guided practice.
  • Head out for a final Late Afternoon/Sunset Field Session focusing on intimate scenes.
  • Dinner on your own.

Day 5: Final Critique & Workshop Conclusion

  • Participate in the final Morning Session (starting ~8:30 AM) for comprehensive image critique, Rethink processing Q&A, and discussion on continued creative growth.
  • Workshop concludes around 1:00 PM.

What's Included:

  • Expert Instruction & Guidance: Field guidance and classroom instruction from David Kingham & Jennifer Renwick (2.5:1 ratio).
  • Ultra-Small Group Environment: Max 5 participants for maximum attention in the Narrows.
  • Essential Narrows Gear Rental: Canyoneering boots, dry pants, neoprene socks, hiking pole.
  • Image Development & Critique: Classroom sessions on "Rethink Landscape" processing and group critiques.
  • Collaborative Workshop Zine: A curated 8x8 keepsake featuring participant images, delivered post-workshop.
  • Permits & Land Use Fees: For planned shooting locations including the Narrows.

What's Not Included:

  • Transportation: To/from Springdale, UT. Park shuttle used for Narrows access; carpooling for other locations.
  • Lodging: In Springdale area (Group rate block available).
  • Meals: All meals (including packed lunches needed for Narrows hike).
  • Zion National Park Entrance Fee: Or valid park pass.
  • Travel Insurance: Strongly recommended.
  • Personal Items: Camera gear, clothing (layers), non-Narrows hiking shoes, reusable water bottle, personal snacks etc.
Stack of Death Valley Intimate Landscapes 2024 zine workshops with textured desert landscape cover on wooden surface

Your Commemorative Zine

As part of your Exploring Exposure experience, we create a custom-designed 8×8 Zine featuring images from you and your fellow participants. It’s a tangible way to remember the time spent together and the landscapes you explored.

The process also encourages you to revisit your work, refine your edits, and select the images that feel most meaningful to you. About a month after the experience, you’ll share your selections with us. We take care of the curation, layout, and printing, and send you a finished piece that reflects the group’s collective experience.

It’s one more way we support your creative process, even after the trip is over.

Our Teaching Philosophy

Our goal is to help you develop your own creative voice through thoughtful, personalized guidance. We meet you where you are and work with you to build on your strengths, whether in the field or during group sessions.

Throughout the experience, we’re fully focused on your growth. We often work alongside you to demonstrate how we approach a scene or solve a problem, but our priority is always your progress, not our own photography.

We provide regular, constructive feedback in a supportive way, helping you refine your compositions, strengthen your ideas, and bring your images to completion. With small group sizes, we’re able to give each participant the attention they need without being overbearing.

Participants come in at different stages, and that’s part of what makes these experiences valuable. No matter your level, our aim is to help you see more clearly, think more intentionally, and continue growing long after the trip is over.

Above all, we strive to create an experience that is engaging, supportive, and genuinely enjoyable. We care deeply about the people we work with and the creative growth that happens along the way.

Safety First

Your safety is our utmost priority, especially when exploring remote locations. As certified Wilderness First Responders, David and Jennifer are prepared to handle any situation, big or small. We also carry satellite communication devices to ensure we can request rescue assistance if needed in areas without cellular coverage.

Responsible

As proud members of Nature First Photography, we are committed to responsible nature photography practices. We abide by and promote the seven principles of this movement to our clients, encouraging them to join us in preserving the natural world we capture through our lenses.

Join Nature First

Legal Compliance

At Exploring Exposure, we operate with the highest level of integrity. We obtain all necessary permits, carry comprehensive liability insurance, and acquire any required certifications to ensure our workshops are conducted legally and ethically.

For this workshop, Exploring Exposure is Authorized Permittee of Zion National Park. We are also an equal opportunity service provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are spouses/partners welcome?

Our workshops are designed as immersive group learning experiences. Participation in all activities, including field excursions and instructional sessions, requires full registration and payment of the workshop fee. Therefore, spouses or partners who wish to join must register as participants.

Will I have cell service during the workshop?

Cell signal is extremely intermittent in most of the locations we will visit, you should not expect to be connected all the time, at certain locations you may be offline for long periods, enjoy the silence. There is cell service and wifi available at the hotel.

Will weather cancel the workshop?

Dramatic weather often creates fantastic photographic opportunities! However, safety is our absolute priority, particularly regarding the Zion Narrows. Due to the significant and potentially sudden danger of flash floods (even from rain miles away),we will not enter the Narrows if rain is forecasted or if conditions are deemed unsafe by park officials or instructors.Participant safety dictates this decision. Should the Narrows hike be cancelled on its scheduled day, we will adapt the itinerary. If conditions permit later in the workshop, we may reschedule the Narrows hike. Alternatively, we will focus on exploring and photographing other incredible and diverse areas within Zion National Park, ensuring a rich photographic experience. Zion offers a wealth of stunning landscapes beyond the Narrows. Please understand that because we adapt our plans to provide a full workshop experience regardless of specific location access, no refunds or rescheduling are offered due to weather preventing the Narrows hike. Our experienced instructors will help you make the most of any conditions to capture the beauty of Zion.

Do the instructors photograph during workshops?

Our commitment is first and foremost to your learning and creative exploration. While you might see us create some images during our time in the field, it's always with an educational purpose in mind. We might photograph to:

  • Walk you through how we evaluate and compose a scene, sharing the excitement and challenges together.
  • Demonstrate a specific technique (like focus stacking, long exposure, or ICM).
  • Make images during our field sessions that reflect the specific locations and conditions you're experiencing. This provides highly relevant examples for demonstrating the Rethink processing workflow, directly applicable to the images you're creating on the trip.

Engaging in the creative process alongside you can be instructive and helps foster a shared experience and connection within the group. However, this never takes precedence over providing personalized attention and ensuring you have the support you need to develop your vision. Our focus remains squarely on you.

Detailed Fitness Requirements & Terrain

Strenuous

Important Note: Before signing up for this workshop, please carefully read and consider the following description of the physical demands involved, particularly regarding the hike within the Virgin River Narrows. Your safety and well-being are our primary concerns.

  • The Narrows Hike: This workshop features a significant hike within the Virgin River Narrows, a unique and rewarding but strenuous trek requiring good physical fitness. Expect to spend a substantial portion of one day (potentially 5-8 hours, covering up to 6 miles) navigating this environment. The hike involves alternating between walking directly in the river and traversing adjacent sandbars, gravel banks, and rocky terrain alongside the water. Roughly half your time may be spent wading in the river, with the other half on relatively drier (though potentially uneven) ground.
  • Terrain & Conditions: When hiking in the river, you will be walking on uneven, slippery river rocks of various sizes. Maintaining balance while wading through flowing water is essential. Water depth in these sections typically varies from ankle-deep to potentially thigh-deep, depending on conditions. When hiking alongside the river, the terrain consists of sand, gravel, and larger rocks, which can also be uneven. There remains a significant risk of slipping and falling, particularly on the wet, submerged rocks, even when using the provided specialized canyoneering boots and walking pole.
  • Required Fitness: To safely and comfortably participate, you must be in good physical condition and able to hike up to 6 miles over mixed terrain (wet, slippery rocks and uneven dry ground) without significant difficulty. The hike is strenuous due to the combination of wading against current, balancing on slick surfaces, and navigating the varied terrain for an extended period.
  • Mobility Considerations: If you have any mobility issues, such as chronic knee problems, back pain, or significant balance concerns, this workshop is likely not suitable for you. The challenging terrain, slippery surfaces (both wet and dry), and wading can exacerbate existing conditions and significantly increase the risk of injury.
  • Self-Assessment is Crucial: We strongly recommend you honestly assess your physical fitness and any mobility limitations before registering. If you have any doubts about your ability to safely complete this hike, please consult with your physician or contact us directly to discuss your concerns. We want every participant to have a safe, enjoyable, and creatively rewarding experience, which starts with ensuring the physical demands are appropriate for you.
  • Visual Aid: We recommend watching this video to get a better visual understanding of the experience and terrain involved in hiking the Narrows.
  • Other Locations: Activities outside the Narrows hike will involve much shorter walks on paved or well-maintained dirt trails (generally easy, less than 2 miles round trip) to reach other viewpoints or shooting locations. However, the strenuous nature of the Narrows hike defines the overall physical requirement for this specific workshop.

How to Get There

Fly to:

  • Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS): ~3-hour drive. Most flight options. Note: Las Vegas is in Pacific Time (PT), Springdale is in Mountain Time (MT - 1 hour ahead).
  • St. George Regional Airport (SGU): ~1-hour drive. Much closer, but fewer flight options.

Cancellation Policy

We put a great deal of care into planning small, personalized workshop experiences. Because group sizes are limited and logistics begin well in advance, we must adhere to the following cancellation policy. We strongly recommend purchasing trip insurance to protect your investment in case of unforeseen circumstances.

  • Initial Payment: An initial payment (applied toward the total workshop fee) is required to secure your spot.
  • Cancellation More Than 90 Days Out: If you cancel more than 90 days before the workshop start date, your initial payment will be refunded minus a 5% processing fee.
  • Cancellation Between 60 and 90 Days Out: If you cancel fewer than 90 days but more than 60 days before the workshop start date, your initial payment becomes non-refundable. However, if we are able to fill your spot, we will refund your initial payment minus a 5% processing fee.
  • Final Balance Payment: The remaining balance will be automatically charged to the card used for your initial payment 60 days prior to the workshop start date. We will send a reminder a few days in advance. Please ensure your payment information is up to date. If you need to use a different card, contact us before the 60-day deadline.
  • Cancellation Within 60 Days (After Final Payment): If you cancel fewer than 60 days before the workshop start date, all payments made are non-refundable. However, if we are able to fill your spot, we will refund your payments minus a 5% processing fee. While we will make a reasonable effort to fill the space, this cannot be guaranteed, especially close to the start date.
  • Alternative Option: Store Credit for a Future Workshop: If your plans change, we’ll always do our best to help. In many cases, if we’re able to fill your spot, we can offer a store credit toward a future workshop so you don’t lose the value of your investment. Availability depends on timing and demand.
  • Process & Policy Understanding: All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing via email or mail. This policy applies regardless of the reason for cancellation, including illness, travel disruptions, or other unforeseen circumstances.
  • Trip Insurance (Strongly Recommended): To protect against unexpected events—such as personal emergencies, illness, or travel delays—we strongly recommend purchasing trip cancellation and interruption insurance. To find the right coverage for your situation, we suggest using a reputable comparison site such as Squaremouth or InsureMyTrip, where you can review plans from multiple providers side by side. We have no affiliation with these companies, so please review coverage carefully to ensure it meets your needs.
  • Workshop Cancellation by Exploring Exposure: We reserve the right to cancel a workshop due to insufficient enrollment or unforeseen circumstances (such as leader illness or park closures). If this occurs, you will be offered the option to transfer to a future workshop or receive a full refund of all payments made to Exploring Exposure. We are not responsible for additional expenses such as airfare, lodging, or rental vehicles. Trip insurance may help cover these costs.

Have Questions?

Feel free to reach out, we are happy to help!

Other Workshops