The 5 Best Photography Experiences in Moab
Moab isn’t just a playground for adventure seekers; it’s a photographer’s paradise. Its dramatic red rock formations, expansive vistas, and star-studded night skies make it a must-visit for anyone eager to capture the rugged beauty of Utah’s desert landscape. With so many options, choosing the right photography experience can be overwhelming. Luckily, this guide covers the best tours, from sunrise shoots and sunset sessions to expert-led workshops that improve your skills while exploring stunning locations.
Moab’s landscapes are uniquely suited to landscape photography, and with the help of knowledgeable guides, you’ll learn how to frame these iconic scenes—whether it’s the arches, canyons, or starry skies. Some tours even focus specifically on astrophotography, making Moab a top destination for night sky enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner wanting to learn camera settings or a seasoned shooter chasing that perfect shot, these experiences will elevate your photography game and give you memories worth framing.
1. Day of Photography in Moab, Arches & Canyonlands
At number one on our list, the Day of Photography in Moab, Arches & Canyonlands offers a full-day, hands-on experience led by a local photographer. For around $375, you get nearly 10 to 11 hours of guided shooting in some of the most photogenic spots in the area. The tour is capped at six participants, ensuring personalized attention.
This tour is perfect if you want to improve your composition and camera skills while capturing famous landmarks like Dead Horse Point State Park, Canyonlands, and Arches National Park. Your guide, Colin, has scoured the parks for the best photo spots and will help you with camera settings, tripod use, and framing. The itinerary includes an early visit to Dead Horse Point for sunrise, multiple canyon shots, and a focus on lesser-visited locations to avoid crowds. If time permits, you’ll also explore an ancient petroglyph site along Potash Road.
Guests consistently praise Colin’s expertise and patience, noting how much they learned about “photo framing” and “shooting modes.” This tour offers excellent value for serious photographers eager to make the most of a full day’s shooting and instruction.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for photographers who want hands-on help, a variety of landscapes, and a flexible itinerary with expert guidance.
2. Sunset and Night Photography in Arches National Park
At number two, the Sunset and Night Photography in Arches National Park is perfect for those who want to capture Moab’s famous arches at golden hour and see the stars emerge. For about $375, this 6 to 8-hour evening tour is limited to six participants, making it a more intimate experience.
This tour takes you to at least three top locations in Arches, with plenty of time to experiment with composition and camera settings during sunset. When darkness falls, you’ll learn how to shoot the Milky Way and other night sky features, as Arches is an International Dark Sky Park. The guide provides tips for astrophotography, making it ideal for beginners and intermediates alike.
Guests mention that Colin’s knowledge of “the cool spots” and “help with camera settings” make this tour stand out. The combination of sunset views and starry skies offers a unique opportunity to capture both landscape and astrophotography in one evening.
Bottom Line: This experience is perfect if you want a relaxed, focused session on sunset and night sky photography, with expert advice in a stunning setting.
3. Sunrise photography in Dead Horse Point and Canyonlands National Park
Number three is the Sunrise Photography in Dead Horse Point and Canyonlands National Park. For $250, this 4 to 6-hour tour offers a chance to catch the early morning light that transforms these landscapes into striking scenes. The tour is limited to six participants, ensuring focused instruction.
Your guide helps you optimize camera settings and composition while capturing Dead Horse Point from multiple viewpoints. Afterward, you’ll explore 1-2 canyon locations, weather permitting. An optional extension can include a visit to Corona Arch, adding a full-day element if desired.
Reviews highlight the guide’s patience and helpfulness, with comments like “he was so patient as we walked to different sites” and “helped me with camera settings.” The early start lets you beat the crowds and get that perfect light, especially useful for capturing landscapes or silhouettes.
Bottom Line: This tour suits photographers eager for an early start, with a focus on landscape shots and personalized guidance, especially if you want to avoid crowds.
4. Milky Way Photography in Arches National Park
For those specifically interested in astrophotography, the Milky Way Photography in Arches National Park is a unique opportunity. At $275, this 3.5-hour evening session is tailored for capturing the galaxy in one of the world’s most designated dark sky parks.
The tour focuses solely on night sky imaging, with minimal light pollution and a variety of locations to shoot the Milky Way against iconic rock formations. Your guide provides technical tips and helps you set up your camera for stellar shots. This experience is well-suited for those who want to learn night photography techniques or improve their long exposure skills.
Reviewers note that the guide is knowledgeable about camera settings and makes the process approachable. The limited duration makes this an efficient way to get introduced to astrophotography, especially if you’re already familiar with daytime landscape photography.
Bottom Line: Ideal for photographers wanting to add night sky shots to their portfolio, this tour offers expert advice in a prime dark sky location.
5. Moab: Arches National Park: Sunset & Night Photography
Rounding out the list, the Moab: Arches National Park: Sunset & Night Photography is a comprehensive 7-hour tour priced at $425. It covers multiple iconic locations for sunset and offers the chance to photograph the Milky Way once night falls.
The tour emphasizes capturing contrasting colors during sunset and offers guidance on composition and exposure. It’s perfect if you want to experience the full spectrum of day-to-night photography in one outing. The guide’s expertise helps maximize your shooting time, particularly at sandstone fins and dunes.
Reviews are positive, emphasizing the chance to photograph “amazing sunset scenes” and “stunning starry skies.” The longer duration allows for multiple locations and better opportunities to get that wow shot.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a full day of shooting, combining sunset and star photography with expert support, all in the stunning setting of Arches.
How to Choose the Right Photography Tour in Moab
When deciding, consider your budget, time available, and photography interests. If you want a full day with personalized instruction, the Day of Photography in Moab, Arches & Canyonlands offers comprehensive coverage. For those specifically interested in night skies or astrophotography, the Milky Way Photography in Arches or the combined sunset and night tour are perfect picks.
Beginners eager to improve their skills should look at tours with a focus on instruction, like the sunrise or sunset sessions, which include helpful tips on camera settings and composition. More experienced photographers may prefer full-day workshops that cover multiple locations and techniques.
Booking early is recommended, especially for tours with limited spots, as Moab’s popularity means these experiences fill quickly. Think about the time of year too: spring and fall usually offer the best weather and lighting conditions.
Final Thoughts
Moab’s landscape offers endless photographic potential—from majestic arches and sweeping canyons to star-filled desert skies. Whether you’re looking for a full-day workshop, a sunset shoot, or a specialized night sky experience, there’s a tour suited to your interests and skill level. For travelers eager to learn and improve, guided tours like Day of Photography in Moab, Arches & Canyonlands provide both education and access to iconic scenery. Night-focused experiences like the Milky Way Photography open a whole new world of photography under the stars.
If you’re planning a trip to Moab, consider booking one of these experiences early to ensure you get the most out of your photographic journey. With the right tour, your camera will thank you—and you’ll leave with images that do justice to this stunning landscape.