Death Valley and the Eastern Sierra

Master Harsh Light and Bold Landscapes in California’s Most Dramatic Settings

Saturday to Friday, January 3rd to 9th, 2026

Join a small group of photographers on a 6-day adventure through some of California’s most dramatic landscapes. From the surreal dunes of Death Valley to the granite peaks of the Eastern Sierra, this workshop is designed to maximize your time in the field and minimize time behind the wheel.

We’ll make a sweeping 1000+ mile loop—starting in Petaluma, crossing the Tehachapi Mountains to Ridgecrest, spending two full days in Death Valley, and then working our way north through the Eastern Sierra and Lake Tahoe before returning to the Bay Area. You’ll photograph sunrise over the dunes, sunset at Zabriskie Point, vibrant desert canyons, the ghost town of Rhyolite, the Alabama Hills, alpine lakes near Mammoth, and the strange towers of Mono Lake.

Many days will begin at dawn and end after sunset to take advantage of the best light. We’ll also schedule time to rest, sleep in, and review images. An optional image critique will be available during the trip, with a follow-up session a few weeks later. A map of our route will be provided to help you revisit your favorite locations after the workshop.

What You’ll Learn:

• How to expose for extreme light and shadow using histograms and filters

• Techniques to maximize sharpness, depth of field, and impact

• Creative composition and how to tell a story through landscape

• Ways to evoke emotion and a strong sense of place in your images

Details:

• Small group: limited to 5 participants

• Affordable lodging just outside the park (upgrade options available)

• Flexible itinerary to adapt to weather and light

• Ordinary car and tire chains required (people can carpool if they want)

• Map of the itinerary included

• Optional post-workshop critique (via Zoom)

• Online registration (tuition due 10 days before start date)

• Fee is for Tuition only: does not include lodging, transportation, meals, or park entry fees

Whether you’re new to the region or returning for deeper exploration, this immersive workshop will leave you with unforgettable images—and the skills to make more.

Reserve Your Spot – Limited to 5 Participants!

📢 Early Bird Discounts

• Sign up by December 20 → 15% Off

• Sign up by December 27 → 10% Off

This workshop is designed for photographers who want to slow down and truly connect with the landscapes they capture. Whether you’re a beginner looking to improve or an experienced photographer seeking inspiration, you’ll leave with stunning images and new skills to enhance your craft.

📷 Reserve your spot today!