Monument Valley Astrophotography Workshop | May 24 - 28, 2025
$5,495 ($2,495 Deposit)
Workshop at a Glance
Physical Activity
Photographic Intensity
Classroom Instruction
Climate/Weather Severity Food and Accommodations Cultural Immersion
Good for Non-photographers-
Discover the enchanting beauty of Monument Valley after dark!
Join us on a captivating 4 night photographic expedition that immerses you in the rich tapestry of Native American culture and landscapes like never before.
In May 2025, you are invited to embark on this unique Navajo-guided adventure, where you will have the opportunity to capture stunning images of the night sky above the pristine and restricted areas of Monument Valley. Experience firsthand the breathtaking and unspoiled allure of Navajo territory, and let the magic of the night inspire your creativity.
Seasoned professional photographer and photo guide Craig Wennersten has been guiding tours in Monument Valley and across the American West for over 15 years and knows these locations inside and out.
Leica expert Colin McKinley from Leica Store Miami will also be on hand to offer guidance and assistance as you capture the spectacular desert scenery.While other cameras are certainly allowed on this trip, the focus is on Leica camera systems and learning how to use them to their full potential. Current owners as well as those wanting to try Leica gear out for a week of real shooting are encouraged to attend. We’ll share our favorite tips and tricks so you can get the most out of this exceptional gear.
Monument Valley Navajo NationMonument Valley stands as one of the most awe-inspiring and breathtaking locations on our planet. This remarkable valley features towering sandstone formations that reach heights of up to 1,000 feet above the desert floor, creating a stunning visual spectacle.
Surrounding these majestic rock pinnacles are vast expanses of mesas, buttes, arches, and windswept sand, all contributing to a landscape that captivates not only with its beauty but also with its sheer scale.
During our unforgettable photographic adventure in Monument Valley, we will guide you through the art of capturing the stunning Milky Way, employing techniques such as low-level light painting and an introduction to post-processing methods.
Over the course of 4 nights, you will embark on an incredible journey through this iconic landscape, accompanied by a knowledgeable local Navajo guide who will share the hidden gems of the area and provide insights into the rich traditions of the Navajo people.
Why this trip is differentAt Leica Store Miami, we feel that real world shooting is the best way to discover the capabilities of your camera, grow as a photographer and enjoy the Leica experience. Our Leica-focused photo workshops offer you a one-of-a-kind opportunity to master your camera, try out the latest Leica gear and spend time with other Leica enthusiasts from all over the US and the world.
This workshop is an introduction to astrophotography and the goal is for you to come home from this trip with the confidence to photograph the night sky on your own. We’ll show you when and where to look for it, useful apps to assist your planning and how to set up your camera for the best possible results.
What to Expect
This is primarily a photography trip. We will be shooting some days from before sunrise until after sunset. Some nights, we may be out in the desert until after midnight photographing the stars. At each carefully chosen location, there will be plenty of time to set up your tripod, compose your shots and get in some quality photography. On most days, we will come back to the hotel mid-day to rest up and edit images.
The weather in Monument Valley and the surrounding desert areas is relatively mild in May, with average highs in the 70’s and lows in the 50’s. However, at an elevation of 5,000-6,000ft above sea level, the sun can be very intense and dehydration can happen quickly. It is very important to drink lots of water, wear sunscreen, and limit sun exposure during the hottest parts of the day.
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Dates:
Saturday, May 24 - Wednesday, May 28, 2025
Cost:
$5,495 - Double occupancy lodging included at the Desert Rose Inn in Bluff, Utah (single room supplement available for $500)
Size:
Limited to 8 attendees
Included in the cost of the trip:
- Double occupancy lodging at the Desert Rose Inn (single room supplement available for $500)
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All meals and beverages except alcohol and snacks
- 4 Nights of in-the-field Astrophotography instruction
- 3 nights of Navajo-guided adventure
- 1 Night camping under the stars at Hunt's Mesa with our Navajo outfitter
- All park admission fees
- Introduction to Astrophotography classroom session
- Editing/critique/review sessions
- Local guide fees and gratuities
- Use of loaner Leica camera equipment *limited availability
Not included in the cost of the trip:
- Transportation to/from Bluff, Utah
- Lodging outside workshop dates
- Snacks
- Alcoholic beverages
Getting There:
Monument Valley is located in a very remote area on the border of Arizona and Utah and requires a vehicle to access. Depending on where you're coming from, there are a few airports you can fly to and rent a car:
-Moab, UT (2 hour drive)
-Page, AZ (2 hour drive)
-Durango, CO (2 hour drive)
-Grand Junction, CO (3.5 hour drive)
-Flagstaff, AZ (3.5 hour drive)
-Albuquerque, NM (5 hour drive)
-Salt Lake City, UT (6 hour drive)
-Las Vegas, NV (7 hour drive)
No matter which direction you come from, there is stunning desert scenery to see and photograph along the way! If you need help planning your travel, let us know and we'll be happy to assist.Recommended Equipment
- Full-frame interchangeable lens camera with native ISO up to 12,500 or higher (SL2-S, SL3, M11, are the best options).
- Lens 24mm or wider, f/2.8 or faster (the wider and faster the better!)
- Sturdy tripod
- Headlamp with red light mode
- PhotoPills app for your smartphone
- Laptop computer with Adobe Lightroom and/or Photoshop for image processing
Where We'll Stay
We'll spend the entirety of the workshop at the Desert Rose Inn in Bluff, Utah. It's a beautiful setting with nice amenities and perfectly situated near a variety of dining options.
Activity LevelMost of the locations we will visit are easily accessible, within a 5-minute walk from the road, however there may be optional chances to explore further for those who are interested. Please make sure you are confident and comfortable with walking over uneven ground while carrying your photo bag! You'll also need to be comfortable walking on trails at night with a headlamp. A camera backpack is strongly recommended, as are walking sticks if you like them.
Experience Level
This workshop is designed as an introduction to Astrophotography, but keep in mind that this is still a fairly advanced style of photography.
You must understand how to operate your camera well enough to adjust Aperture, Shutter Speed, and ISO, as well as how to use your tripod, in complete darkness.
For this reason, we strongly recommend using a camera that you are very comfortable and experienced with. We also recommend using your camera as much as possible in the weeks leading up to the trip, so you know it like the back of your hand!
Signing UpTo sign up for this workshop, just checkout here on our website, email us (workshops@leicastoremiami.com) or call 305-921-4433. We are happy to answer any questions you may have. A $2495 deposit, along with the single room supplement should you choose it, is required to hold your spot. The balance of $3000 will be due on or before February 24, 2025.
We look forward to seeing you in Utah!
- Double occupancy lodging at the Desert Rose Inn (single room supplement available for $500)
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Itinerary
Our First Night's Journey
On our initial evening, we'll gather with our Navajo guides and take some time to explore the stunning landscapes just outside Monument Valley.We’ll capture the breathtaking Aglatha Peak, revered by the Navajo as the center of the universe, along with the iconic Forrest Gump Road (Hwy 163) and various scenic viewpoints nestled between Bluff, Utah, and Monument Valley.
This initial outing will serve as an excellent chance to adjust and perfect our equipment in preparation for the exciting adventures that await us over the next three nights.
Our Second Night's Journey
Experience the magic of camping beneath a starlit sky at Hunts Mesa, where you can snap stunning photos that will leave you in awe.This hidden gem offers jaw-dropping views and picturesque landscapes, making it an essential stop for any adventurous photographer seeking a unique and fulfilling experience.
Join us for an overnight camping tour that will allow you to fully soak in the breathtaking beauty of Hunts Mesa in Monument Valley.
While it’s often called the crown jewel of the area, getting there is an adventure in itself, as you'll navigate through challenging off-road terrain filled with sand dunes and rocky paths, adding an exhilarating twist to your journey.
The Majesty of Hunt's Mesa
Upon our arrival, the breathtaking grandeur of Hunts Mesa will leave you in awe, presenting countless opportunities for stunning photographs.The vantage points here provide sweeping views of the entire Monument Valley, with numerous incredible locations perfect for setting up your camera
and capturing the beauty around you.
This adventure through Monument Valley is highly recommended for both budding and seasoned photographers, as it offers award-winning photographic prospects in a landscape that is truly one-of-a-kind.
Our safari will kick off five hours prior to sunset, with a scenic two-hour drive leading us to the picturesque Hunts Mesa overlook.
Perched at an impressive 6,795 feet above sea level, our photo camp provides a panoramic view of the entire Monument Valley, ensuring a spectacular backdrop for your shots.
We will reach our destination about three hours before the sun begins to dip below the horizon. During this time, our knowledgeable Navajo guide will introduce us to the area, highlighting some of the prime spots for capturing breathtaking sunset images. It's the perfect moment to prepare our cameras!
Visitors to Hunts Mesa often find themselves captivated by its pristine beauty, characterized by vibrant colors, dramatic cliffs, and stunning panoramic views.
Throughout this photographic journey, we will seize the many opportunities that the mesa offers, but be prepared to embrace a bit of ruggedness along
Wednesday, May 28
After breakfast, we'll say our farewells. If you're not extending your stay, you can schedule your departure at anytime.
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Payment
A $2495 deposit, along with the single room supplement should you choose it, is due at the time of registration. The balance of $3000 will be due on or before February 24, 2025.
Withdrawal and Refund Policy
Enrollment is limited to 8 participants, and once you sign up, we are counting on your attendance. If you need to withdraw from this workshop, please notify us in writing (email is acceptable) as soon as possible. This is our refund policy:
If you cancel and we find someone to fill your seat, we will refund you the full amount you have paid towards the tuition, minus a $250 service charge. If you cancel and we cannot find someone to fill your seat, then you will be refunded according to the following schedule:
At least 90 days before the start of the workshop: Full refund minus $250 service fee.
Between 89 and 60 days before the start of the workshop: 75% refund
Between 59 and 45 days before the start of the workshop: 50% refund
Less than 45 days from the start of the workshop: No refundTravel Insurance (STRONGLY recommended)
Leica Store Miami is not responsible for cancellations due to medical or personal emergencies so we highly recommend purchasing travel Insurance. Companies like Travelex and Allianz Global Assistance are reputable but you can choose any vendor you like. Just make sure that they have an A+ rating from the BBB. Leica Store Miami is not responsible for reimbursement of non-refundable airline tickets in the event of a workshop cancellation.
Camera Gear Insurance (STRONGLY recommended)
We advise all of our workshop attendees to insure their camera gear against damage, theft, loss, etc. If your gear is not already insured, check with your home owner's insurance to see if they offer coverage. There are several photo specific insurance policies out there as well.
Course Cancellation and Other Terms
Leica Store Miami reserves the right to cancel a reservation if full payment has not been received by 90 days prior to the start of the workshop.
In the event that this workshop must be canceled due to inadequate enrollment, all fees and deposits will be refunded in full or may be transferred to another workshop within 24 months.
In the unlikely event of illness, accident or injury to one of the instructors, Leica Store Miami reserves the right to replace that instructor with a comparable instructor.Single Room Policy
If you sign-up for double occupancy room sharing and there are no other attendees to pair you with, you will be responsible for paying the single room supplement.Transfers
If for any reason you wish to transfer your deposit or workshop fee, please notify us by email. You must register and complete a new workshop within 24 months of the withdrawal. We reserve the right to accept or deny any transfer.There are no exceptions to our Cancellation and Transfer Policy.
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