MOAB Astrophotography Workshop
Pete DeMarco’s Night Photography Workshop in Utah’s National Parks
Embark on an interstellar adventure in Moab, Utah, with Pete DeMarco and friends, as we explore the star-studded skies above two of America’s internationally certified Dark Sky Parks: Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.
In this unique and intimate astrophotography workshop, you’ll capture unforgettable celestial events, like the rising of the Milky Way’s galactic core over jaw-dropping canyons, star trails spiraling from ancient desert arches, and an annular ‘Ring of Fire’ solar eclipse!
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My Photo Tour Is Here!
I’m super excited to announce my first photography workshop in the US, at an absolutely awe-inspiring location! When you join this unique trip, I’ll share with you my deep love of both photography and travel, guiding you through an unforgettable and educational workshop experience. I can’t wait to kick things off and explore the skies above Moab with you!
Moab Workshop Details
- Dates: 2024 Dates TBA
- Location: Moab, Utah (Arches & Canyonlands National Parks)
- Group Size: Max. 10
- Tour Leader/Instructor: Pete DeMarco
- Hands-on Instruction In The Field: Learn how to take print-worthy photos of the Milky Way, star trails, and night sky.
- Daily Post-processing Classes: Level-up your Lightroom and Photoshop editing skills.
- Daily Image Reviews: Get feedback on your photos that will guide you on a path to improvement.
- Centrally-located Accommodation (Included): Close to the park entrances and downtown Moab.
- Price: TBA
Daily Photo Itinerary
Not only does Moab have the best weather in October, sunset is around 6:45pm and the Milky Way’s galactic core is visible after 8pm.
- Day 1 | Milky Way Magic: After a 3pm kickoff meeting at our hotel in Moab, we’ll head straight to Arches National Park to photograph the sunset and night sky over iconic high-desert landscapes like Balanced Rock, Turret Arch, Double Arch, and/or The Windows.
- Day 2 | Starry Night Trails: In the morning, you’ll edit and get feedback on your photos from day 1, as well as learn new astrophotography post processing tips and tricks. After a midday break, we’re off to Arches to learn how to plan your night sky shots, capture star trails, and more.
- Day 3 | Window to The Universe: We’ll start the day with a post processing lesson, then go more in-depth with planning your astro photos. In the afternoon, we’ll head to Delicate Arch, an American icon, for our sunset session. As day fades to night, the Milky Way will soar above it, like a window to the universe.
- Day 4 | Grand Scenics Under Starlight: After our morning post processing session, we’ll explore Canyonlands National Park, photographing jaw-dropping vistas from Grand Viewpoint Overlook, and an epic scene of the Milky Way core rising above the valley floor from Green River Overlook. For those wanting more, we can stop at Mesa Arch for one more starlight session.
- Day 5 | Eclipse Awe: It’s the morning of October 14th, 2023. Today you’ll witness an annular ‘Ring of Fire‘ solar eclipse over Utah. Afterwards, we’ll edit our photos, then head out for one last night shoot, to be decided by the group.
- Day 6 | Sunrise Mountain Peaks: On our last morning, we’ll take a short drive up to La Sal Mountain Viewpoint in Arches National Park, to capture the sun rising behind the white-capped 12,000 foot peaks of the La Sal Mountain Range. After breakfast at our hotel, we will say our goodbyes and head home.
*This is a tentative schedule and can change due to factors like weather.
What’s Included?
- Accommodation in shared double rooms (queen beds) at the Holiday Inn Express in Moab for 5 nights. Single rooms available for an extra fee.
- Breakfast daily, plus a welcome and departure dinner.
- All entrance fees. Each participant will get an America The Beautiful Pass, good for entry into all US national parks or federal lands for 1 year ($80 value).
- Priority access to Arches National Park (no need for a timed-entry ticket since we have Commercial Use Authorization from the National Parks Service).
- 6 days with Pete DeMarco as your tour leader.
- In-the-field professional photography instruction (small group with ideal student/instructor ratio).
- Hands-on post processing and image feedback sessions at a private conference room in our hotel.
- A comprehensive online orientation to help you prepare and get the most out of the workshop.
- An online group slideshow to showcase your work after the workshop has finished.
What Is Not Included?
- Transportation to/from Moab or during the workshop. We can connect you with other participants if you’d like to carpool.
- Health and travel insurance.
- Private room if available (extra $699).
Price
$2,995 (Only 10 spots available!)
What You Will Learn
- How to create dynamic night photos that tell a story and draw the viewer in.
- Best settings and best-practices for night photography.
- How to capture razor-sharp night images with ease
- How to plan an astrophotography shoot (with PhotoPills and other apps).
- How to capture stunning Milky Way and star trail photos.
- How to reduce noise with stacking and software
- Post-processing techniques in Lightroom and Photoshop (like how to blend a starry sky into your landscape)
- How to refine your vision and style (with instructor feedback every step of the way)
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Testimonials
- “My photography has definitely improved. I believe Pete was born to teach. And this is his natural outlet.” ~ JoAnn Cancro, New York (Vietnam Photo Tour participant and 3-year online school member)
- “Pete’s calm and collected attitude towards teaching, from when I was a rookie until now, makes learning more pleasurable.” ~ Bob Adamson, UK (3-year online school member)
FAQ
It’s convenient because you don’t have to worry about booking your hotel or being in the right place at the right time for the best photos. We handle the details and exclusive training so you can focus on having fun and creating your best work.
Yes. However, you should have basic photo skills at minimum and have experience editing your photos. If you have any doubts, just let us know.
A DSLR or mirrorless camera and a solid tripod. You’ll get a detailed list of suggested gear once you sign up. A laptop is suggested so you can work on your photos during the post processing and feedback sessions.
Yes. Pete DeMarco is the lead instructor. The other will be announced soon.
10 people.
The price includes all entrance fees, all breakfasts, the hotel, and two dinners. You’re responsible for your transportation and other meals.
No. Most of the shooting locations are a short walk from the car. The only exception is a 3-mile hike (out and back) to Delicate Arch. If you have any concerns or would like more details, just let me know.
Send it to pete[at]petedemarcophoto.com. I can also jump on a call with you if that’s easier.
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“I had an excellent time with Pete; fantastic, jaw dropping locations, each better than the last, accompanied by first class constructive instruction. Every day I walked away with memorable shots. The only downside was that it had to end. l can’t wait till next time!” Justin Howard, UK (Malaysia Photo Tour Participant)