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November 2-6‚ 2025 - 3 Spots Available

Workshop Dates
Investment: $3,495
Investment: $3,495
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  • 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
    Hiking up to 6 miles per day in the Virgin River. Expect slippery, uneven terrain, and wading through water ranging from ankle to thigh-deep. Good physical fitness and mobility are essential.

    More Info 

  • Curriculum

    Field Sessions & Classroom Instruction
    Our days will be split between exploring and photographing the Zion Narrows and other areas of the park. You'll learn techniques for capturing the beauty of the canyon, including composition, working with reflected light, and shooting intimate landscapes. In the classroom, we'll dive into unique Lightroom processing methods and have engaging image critique sessions to help take your photography to the next level!

  • 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, Nevada (LAS) or Salt Lake City, Utah (SLC)

    Check Flights 

Description

Zion National Park is a photographer's paradise, and in the fall, it comes alive with vibrant colors and glowing canyon walls. The crown jewel of Zion is the Narrows, a majestic sandstone canyon carved by the Virgin River, where the interplay of light and shadow creates an ethereal atmosphere.

Our workshop will guide you through the Narrows, helping you capture iconic shots and lesser-known gems. We'll focus on chasing the light and mastering the art of capturing the infamous "glow" created by reflected light at specific times of the day. We'll also dedicate time to exploring intimate landscapes, offering a unique perspective on the canyon's beauty.

With our small group size, you'll have ample opportunity to capture stunning photographs without competing for space. Each stop has limited prime spots, and the magical glow is fleeting. Our approach allows you to immerse yourself in the serene environment of the Narrows.

If you're passionate about photography and want to unleash your creative potential in the Zion Narrows, this workshop is perfect for you. With expert guidance, insider knowledge, and a focus on both grand landscapes and intimate scenes, you'll come away with a diverse portfolio showcasing the true essence of Zion National Park in the fall.

Join us on this photographic adventure and let the beauty of Zion inspire your creativity and elevate your skills to new heights.

Your Pro Leaders

  • 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 

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: Introduction, Preparation, and Reflected Light

  • 2:00 pm: Meet in front of the hotel in Springdale, UT for introductions and a warm welcome.
  • Afternoon: Engage in informative presentations on landscape photography techniques and composition, setting the stage for your Zion Narrows adventure.
  • Gear Rental: Visit the outfitters to rent essential narrows gear, including dry pants, boots, neoprene socks, and a walking stick. Pick up sandwiches for the next day's lunch.
  • Evening: Venture out to photograph the stunning reflected canyon light in the Virgin River, putting your newly acquired knowledge into practice.
  • Group Dinner: Enjoy a delightful meal together, fostering connections and camaraderie among the participants.

Day 2: Immersive Narrows Exploration

  • Early Morning: Rise early to catch the first shuttle bus into the canyon, maximizing your time in the Narrows.
  • Full Day: Spend the day exploring the breathtaking Zion Narrows, capturing the vibrant fall colors and the interplay of light and shadow on the towering canyon walls. Discover hidden gems and create stunning compositions that showcase the beauty of this iconic landscape.

Day 3: Narrows in Different Light and Legendary Dining

  • Full Day: Dedicate another full day to photographing the Narrows, allowing you to explore different areas of the canyon under varying light conditions. With more time to spend in this awe-inspiring location, you'll have the opportunity to capture a diverse range of images that highlight the Narrows' ever-changing moods and hues.
  • Evening: Savor a memorable dinner at the legendary Oscar's Cafe, a beloved local institution known for its delicious food and warm atmosphere. Share stories and insights from your day of photography while enjoying the company of your fellow workshop participants.

Day 4: Intimate Landscapes, Image Share, and Lightroom Processing

  • Early Morning: Rise early to photograph intimate landscapes in other areas of Zion Canyon, focusing on the smaller details and intricate beauty of the park.
  • Midday: Gather for an engaging image share session, where participants will present their favorite images from the previous days' outings. Engage in constructive discussions and learn from each other's unique perspectives and techniques.
  • Afternoon: Dive into the world of post-processing as the instructors guide you through their unique Lightroom techniques. Learn how to enhance your images, bringing out the best in each shot and creating final products that truly showcase the beauty of Zion.
  • Late Afternoon: Venture out to a different area of Zion Canyon to photograph, applying the newly learned techniques and creative insights gained from the image share and Lightroom sessions.

Day 5: Image Critique, Lightroom Processing, and Farewell

  • Morning: Gather for a final image critique session, where you'll receive valuable feedback on your photographs from the instructors and your peers. Engage in discussions about composition, technique, and creative vision, refining your skills and gaining fresh perspectives.
  • Lightroom Processing: Continue exploring advanced Lightroom processing techniques, ensuring you have the tools and knowledge to create stunning final images that capture the essence of Zion National Park.
  • 1:00 pm: Conclude the workshop, leaving you with newfound skills, unforgettable memories, and a portfolio of breathtaking images that showcase the beauty of Zion's Narrows and intimate landscapes. Depart with a renewed passion for photography and a deep appreciation for the natural wonders of Zion National Park.

What You'll Experience

Enchanting Autumn Colors: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Zion National Park in November, when the fall colors are at their peak. Witness the vibrant hues of the cottonwoods and maples as they contrast against the towering sandstone cliffs, creating a stunning canvas for your photography.

Majestic Narrows: Venture into the heart of Zion's most iconic feature, the Narrows. This deep, twisting canyon carved by the Virgin River offers endless photographic opportunities, from the soaring walls to the intimate details of the rock formations. Chase the light as it dances through the canyon, creating an ethereal glow that will take your breath away.

NOTE: Due to Zion National Park regulations, there is no guiding permitted into the "Wall Street" section of the Narrows by any photography workshop providers. Please be aware that all Narrows images you have seen on this website are in areas that we can guide you to.

Intimate Landscapes: In addition to capturing the grand vistas of the Narrows, we'll also focus on the smaller, more intricate scenes that are often overlooked. Discover the beauty in the details, from the delicate patterns in the sandstone to the lush vegetation clinging to the canyon walls. These intimate landscapes will add depth and variety to your photographic portfolio.

Expert Guidance: Benefit from the expertise of David and Jennifer, who have been exploring and photographing the Narrows for years. They'll share their knowledge of the best times and locations to capture the infamous "glow" created by reflected light, ensuring that you come away with stunning images that showcase the essence of the Narrows.

Small Group Experience: Enjoy a personalized and immersive photography experience with our small group size. You'll have plenty of space and time to set up your shots without feeling rushed or crowded, allowing you to fully engage with the beauty of the Narrows and create images that reflect your unique vision.

Important Details

Lodging: We have secured a block of rooms at the Cable Mountain Lodge, conveniently located near the park entrance. The special group rate is $161/night, providing a comfortable and well-appointed base for our photography adventures in Zion. The hotel offers easy access to the park and all the amenities you need to relax and recharge after a day of shooting. More details will be provided upon registration.

Image Gallery

What is Included

  • Small class size of 5 maximum to ensure proper attention to each client and not feel crowded in the Narrows.
  • Rental of Narrows gear (dry pants, neoprene socks, water boots, and a walking stick)
  • Two attentive instructors
  • Image Critiques
  • Tailored post processing instruction in Lightroom and Photoshop

What is Not Included

  • Transportation - You must get to Springdale, we will be riding the park shuttle from there
  • Lodging - we have a block of rooms held for you
  • Meals - we will be eating some meals together as a group

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.

Our Teaching Philosophy

At our workshops, we are dedicated to helping you discover and develop your unique creative style through personalized training tailored to your skill level and photographic interests. Our goal is to provide you with a rigorous learning experience, both in the field and the classroom, to elevate your photography to new heights.

Your growth and satisfaction are our top priorities. We put your interests first, focusing solely on your learning experience. Throughout the workshop, we will take photographs alongside you to demonstrate how we approach a scene, share techniques, and foster a sense of camaraderie within the group. However, we will never leave you to pursue our own photographic endeavors. Our attention will always remain on you and your progress.

We regularly check in with each participant to provide helpful feedback and advice on your work, without being overbearing. Our biggest goal is to see you succeed and learn, and we are committed to supporting you every step of the way.

We recognize that each participant joins our workshops at different stages of their photographic development. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced photographer, we are here to guide and assist you. We firmly believe that there is always room for growth and improvement in photography, and we are committed to helping you refine your skills and find your unique creative vision.

Above all, we strive to create a fun, engaging, and rewarding experience for you. Our small group sizes allow us to build strong connections with our clients, fostering a sense of community and belonging. We are driven by our love for photography and find immense joy in witnessing our participants' growth and artistic development.

Join us on this exciting journey of photographic discovery, and let us help you unlock your full creative potential.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are spouses/partners welcome?

For this workshop, no. Unless they are paying full price for a seat. We must reduce the number of cars due to parking concerns and the amount of people we bring into the Narrows.

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 the best opportunities for stunning photographs! However, when it comes to the Zion Narrows, safety is our top priority. If there is rain in the forecast, we will not venture into the Narrows due to the risk of flash floods. Flash floods can occur suddenly and without warning, making the Narrows extremely dangerous.

In the event of inclement weather, we will adjust our itinerary to ensure that we make the most of our time in Zion National Park. If the Narrows are not accessible on the planned days, we will either reschedule our Narrows hike for another day during the workshop or focus on photographing other incredible areas of the park. Zion offers a wealth of photographic opportunities, from intimate landscapes to sweeping vistas, and we will make sure to capture the beauty of the park regardless of the weather conditions.

Please note that no rain checks will be given for any weather-related circumstances, as we will adapt our plans to ensure that you have a fulfilling and productive photography experience throughout the workshop. Our experienced instructors will guide you in making the most of the available light and weather conditions, helping you create stunning images that showcase the unique beauty of Zion National Park.

Will the instructors take photos during the workhop?

The instructors will take a few photos in a limited manner, this is so you can see how we approach a scene, create comradery with the group, and show you the same type of images you will be taking for our processing session. Our focus will always remain with you.

More Information

Fitness Level

Before signing up for our Zion Narrows photography workshop, it's crucial to assess your physical fitness and mobility to ensure that you can safely and comfortably participate in this challenging hike. The Narrows is a strenuous and demanding trek that requires a good level of fitness and the ability to navigate uneven, slippery terrain.

Throughout the hike, you'll be walking on river rocks and hard-packed sand, which can be unstable and difficult to traverse. The water depth will vary from ankle to thigh-deep, and you'll need to maintain your balance while wading through the river. It's important to note that there is a significant risk of slipping and falling due to the slippery nature of the river rocks, even with the provided canyoneering boots and walking pole.

To safely participate in this workshop, you must be in good physical condition and able to hike up to 6 miles per day without difficulty. The hike will be strenuous, and you'll need to be prepared for the physical exertion required to navigate the challenging terrain of the Narrows.

If you have any mobility issues, such as knee problems, back pain, or balance concerns, this workshop may not be suitable for you. The uneven terrain, slippery surfaces, and constant wading through water can exacerbate existing mobility issues and increase the risk of injury.

We strongly recommend that you carefully consider your physical fitness and any mobility limitations before signing up for this workshop. If you have any doubts about your ability to safely complete the hike, please consult with your physician or reach out to us to discuss your concerns. We want to ensure that every participant has a safe, enjoyable, and rewarding experience in the Zion Narrows, and that starts with being honest about your physical capabilities.

Remember, your safety and well-being are our top priorities. While we will provide you with the necessary gear and guidance to navigate the Narrows, it's ultimately your responsibility to assess your fitness level and make an informed decision about whether this workshop is right for you.

Please watch this video to get a better idea of what the experience of hiking the Narrows is like.

How to Get There

Las Vegas (LAS) is the most convenient airport for those traveling to Springdale, Utah. From Las Vegas, it's a scenic 3-hour drive to Springdale. Please note the time change, as Las Vegas is in the Pacific Time Zone (PST), while Springdale is in the Mountain Time Zone (MST), which is one hour ahead.

Alternatively, you can fly into Salt Lake City (SLC), which is about a 4.5-hour drive from Springdale. This option offers a more direct route if you're coming from the northern or eastern parts of the country.

We recommend renting a car or arranging transportation from either airport, as public transportation options are limited in the area surrounding Zion National Park. Having your own vehicle will also provide you with the flexibility to explore the region before or after the workshop.

If you have any questions about travel arrangements or need assistance planning your trip, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to help ensure that your journey to Springdale is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Cancellation Policy

  • If you cancel 90 days prior to the workshop we will refund your initial payment minus a $100 fee.
  • 90 days before the start of the workshop, we will refund your initial payment only if we can fill your spot.
  • The full balance is due 60 days before the workshop. There will be no refunds on the full amount owed. We will attempt to fill your spot, if filled there will be a $100 administrative fee charged and the rest of your payment will be refunded.

There are NO EXCEPTIONS TO THIS POLICY, even for medical emergencies. All cancellation requests must be in writing and received either by US mail or E-mail. We encourage participants to purchase refundable airline tickets and trip cancellation insurance. We strongly recommend trip insurance to protect you in the event of an unexpected situation that prevents you from attending the workshop. We recommend Travelguard or World Nomads.

We reserve the right to cancel any workshop if the minimum student enrollment is not met. In the event we cancel a workshop, participants will be given the option to reschedule to a later date or receive a full refund. we are not, however, liable for expenses incurred such as airfare or accommodations, and for this reason we also recommend the purchase of trip insurance.

Have Questions?

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

Customer Reviews

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Ben C.
Great instructions, epic location!

David and Jennifer were great teachers and the Zions workshop was out of this world. They both were wonderful guides and knew when and where to be for the optimal lighting conditions. David and Jennifer also share their unique expertise when it comes to photography and together, offer some great advice. I've been on several workshops with David always come away with something new and I definitely enjoyed this location.

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