Field Workshop

Dates March 19–25, 2005
Leader Cliff Zenor and local guides
Fee $2,495 from Page, Arizona
Deposit $300
Limit 8
Terms and Conditions

The images are familiar. For photographers, some of the most recognizable photographs of the American Southwest are created in Monument Valley and the slot canyons of southern Utah and northern Arizona. Time spent “shooting” in this unearthly landscape of vibrant colors, towering monoliths and mesmerizing patterns is always repaid with a trove of exceptional imagery.

Antelope Canyon is like nowhere else in North America: wind and water-eroded sandstone walls ascend 100 feet high through what must be the most artistically attractive rock crack in the West. Exquisite erosion patterns captured in the reflected glow of overhead light as it bounces from wall to canyon wall inspire some of the most sensual abstract photography imaginable.

We have scheduled three opportunities to capture the play of sunlight across the sculpted Navajo sandstone walls of these unique winding passageways that pierce deep into the colorful heart of the Colorado Plateau. One visit to Upper Antelope, the best known of the slot canyons, and two excursions into Lower Antelope—longer and deeper and considered by many to be the most photographically productive—will give us time to record the ever-changing hues, textures and curves of this magical setting.

The spectacular rock formations of Monument Valley have long held our collective imaginations. From its use in John Ford’s Stagecoach, to uncountable advertisements featuring a dynamic landscape punctuated with the soaring profiles of the renowned Mitten Buttes and a throng of other formations, Monument Valley is recognized as a symphony in stone. Fiery reds and oranges of the buttes, mesas and eroded freestanding pinnacles and spires pierce the infinite blue skies.

We will traverse this remarkable “valley” and photograph the first light of day as it brushes the dramatic sandstone monuments and return to capture the last glowing rays of the sun. In between, changing light and clouds create endless patterns across these secluded tribal lands. As we explore further with our local Navajo guide we will also have an opportunity to photograph petroglyphs, Anasazi cliff dwellings and natural arches.

Join Cliff Zenor on this journey in late March—when the light is at its best and the visitors few—to some of the most photogenic locations in the American Southwest.



Day 1
Fly to Page, Arizona, and meet at our hotel for dinner. (D)

Days 2–3
We’ll photograph at sunrise and sunset each day—visiting the Paria Movie Set, Horseshoe Bend and Big Water, depending on light conditions. Midday will be reserved for photography sessions in both Lower and Upper Antelope Canyon. (BLD)

Day 4
We return to Lower Antelope Canyon and then drive to Monument Valley and check into our conveniently located lodging. We should have time to photograph the sweeping vista from the Visitor Center overlook. (BLD)

Days 5–6
Sunrise and sunset photography in Monument Valley, including a visit to Mystery Valley. (BLD)

Day 7
We return to Page this morning. Flights home should be scheduled for no earlier than 11 AM. (B)


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