CUSTOMIZED TRIP PLANNING SERVICES
PRICING: $200 for 1 hour session
Please email me at: info@zion-photography.com to request a consultation and we will arrange a time that works for both of us.
What is a trip planning consultation? This is for those who want to maximize their time and experience in the desert via phone or zoom session. The consultation is 100% tailored to you. It can be completely, partially or not at all based on photography. In addition to photography, I pursue pretty much all outdoor recreation disciplines here in Utah. Through my 10 years of guiding and teaching landscape photography in Zion and Bryce, not only have I developed an expertise on photography in this region, but I also have a solid relationship with the many opportunities on how to best enjoy this region during each season. Be aware, you may not even know the questions to ask, but that’s where I can help. I ask a lot of questions during these consultations, and there is a lot that can be known about visiting and creating a great experience in this area. When I find answers to what your situation is, I can really dig in and find the best ideas for you. Each one of the scenarios below would involve clarifying questions from me, and that would happen throughout our consultation in order to dial in a special itinerary for you.
Here are some sample scenarios
“I’m an advanced photographer who doesn’t need instruction, but I’m looking to visit for peak fall foliage colors this year. Where should I shoot in Zion, and what do I need to know about shooting during that time of the year?”
“I came across your site but I’m actually not very into photography. My friends and I are looking for great ways to see the parks but avoid the crowds while not feeling like we’re “missing out” on the best stuff. We can hike up to 5 miles a day, and have 2 days in Bryce and 1 day in Zion. Can we do a group call with all of us?”
“We are planning a family reunion in the Zion area with a mixture of different adventure levels and physical abilities and we’re looking for good activities appropriate for each type of person.”
“My family and I are coming in August and I’m the only photographer. How can I get great photos while they’re having a fun time too? They only like short hikes, and how would you go about keep them from overheating?”
“I’m traveling solo for 5 days from Moab to Utah and want to shoot as much as possible, especially the Milky Way but have pretty limited mobility. Where would you go?”
There are many thought processes that will go into what I’m recommending for you. Here are some examples:
What season are they visiting?
What is the shuttle situation going to be with the crowds that exist during that time of the year?
Where can I have them spend time to stay comfortable with temperatures?
I can send this mixed family group to “spot x” so Mom can shoot awesome sunset photos while the kids can cool off in the river in late June.
Sounds like they may be nervous about animals (BTW.. we have nothing dangerous that’s gonna get you) at night while shooting the Milky Way by themselves. They should go to “spot x” so they can be right at the road but get an excellent image and feel not too far from town.
Sounds like this friend group is in ultra go-mode in order get a collection of portfolio worthy images in June. How many days do they have in each location? What is the moon cycle going to be during their dates. Oh great, those dates are great for Milky Way. There’s an easy hike down this great foreground that they can light paint. By the way are you familiar with what light painting is? Have you tried it? Oh.. you have great! Oh, but you didn’t like the results. Have you ever tried bouncing light before? You should try this technique, I’ll explain it.
Sounds like they’d like to get a more unique/off the radar type of shooting location at sunset in Zion, and they’ll have a 4wd vehicle. I’m going to send you these gps coordinates, but be aware that if there’s any moisture on that road you shouldn’t attempt it. What vehicle will you have?
