Moab offers some of the most stunning scenery in the American Southwest, making it a photographer’s paradise. With dramatic red rock formations, iconic arches, and expansive night skies, it’s the perfect place to sharpen your skills or simply capture breathtaking images. Among the many options, we especially like the Day of Photography in Moab, Arches & Canyonlands because it combines expert guidance with a well-rounded itinerary, helping you improve your technique while exploring the area’s most photogenic spots. Whether you’re after sunrise shots at Mesa Arch or petroglyphs on Potash Road, Moab’s landscapes and knowledgeable guides make for unforgettable photography adventures.
These experiences cater to different interests and skill levels, from daytime landscape workshops to night sky and astrophotography tours. In the list below, you’ll find options that suit everything from quick evening star-gazing to full-day workshops, ensuring you’ll find a perfect fit for your travel style and photographic goals.
1. Day of Photography in Moab, Arches & Canyonlands
At number 1, the Day of Photography in Moab, Arches & Canyonlands offers a comprehensive, guided experience with a local photographer. This small-group tour (capped at six participants) strikes a balance between personalized instruction and exploring the stunning landscapes. The guide has scouted the best spots, from Dead Horse Point to iconic Arches, and will help you optimize your camera settings, improve composition, and capture the moment.
The tour covers a variety of locations, including Dead Horse Point State Park, Canyonlands, and lesser-known Arches sites, with an optional petroglyph stop on Potash Road. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a hands-on approach to landscape photography, with water and snacks included, making it a full but manageable day. Reviewers praise Colin’s expertise and personalized tips, especially noting how he helps with camera settings and framing. If you want a tailored, skill-boosting day in Moab’s most photogenic spots, this tour is hard to beat.
Bottom Line: Great for those seeking guided instruction and a broad taste of Moab’s landscapes in a small group.
2. Moab: The Windows Astro-Photography and Stargazing Hike
Number 2 on our list is Moab: The Windows Astro-Photography and Stargazing Hike. For just $175, this two-hour evening adventure takes you far from city lights to capture the Milky Way. The tour focuses on the starry skies over The Windows in Arches National Park, one of the best dark sky locations in the region.
What makes this experience special is the opportunity to learn night sky photography from an expert guide, who provides tips on how to photograph the galaxy and other celestial objects. The tour includes headlamps and tripods for steady shots, and options to rent a DSLR or lens ensure even beginners can get great results. It’s perfect if you’re interested in astrophotography or simply want to see the Milky Way with your own eyes.
Bottom Line: Ideal for night sky enthusiasts and those eager to learn astrophotography in a stunning natural setting.
3. Sunset and Night Photography in Arches National Park
Number 3 is Sunset and Night Photography in Arches National Park. For about $375, you’ll spend 6 to 8 hours exploring lesser-known spots for golden hour and sunset shots, then staying on for night photography when the Milky Way appears. This tour is especially suited for those who want to capture both sunset and astrophotography, with a focus on avoiding crowds at popular locations.
The guide offers helpful composition tips, camera setting advice, and provides round-trip transportation from Moab, removing the hassle of logistics. The itinerary includes visits to at least three iconic locations, making it an ideal choice for photographers wanting a mix of landscape, sunset, and night sky shots. Reviewers highlight the personalized guidance and the chance to shoot in secret spots away from tourist throngs.
Bottom Line: Best for photographers looking for a full evening of sunset and night photography in a small group with expert guidance.
4. Milky Way Photography in Arches National Park
Number 4 is the Milky Way Photography in Arches National Park. Priced at $275, this 3.5-hour tour is perfect if your main goal is capturing the galaxy. The park is recognized worldwide as an outstanding dark sky site, making it a bucket-list location for astrophotography.
This experience is tailored for photographers wanting to focus on night sky images, with guidance on camera settings, composition, and how to foreground the stars with nearby rock formations. The guide shares their knowledge of best spots and timing for optimal Milky Way shots, ensuring you get high-quality images. The small-group setting and expert instruction make it suitable for both beginners and more experienced astrophotographers.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for night sky lovers and those wanting to improve their astrophotography skills in a stunning setting.
5. Moab: Arches National Park: Sunset & Night Photography
Number 5 is Moab: Arches National Park: Sunset & Night Photography. At $395 per person, this 7-hour tour combines sunset and night photography, focusing on capturing iconic landscapes during the golden hour before transitioning into star photography.
The tour covers three key spots, with the guide providing real-time tips on camera settings, framing, and timing. It’s particularly suited for photographers eager to shoot both during sunset and in the dark, with a small group for personalized attention. The experience is well-reviewed, emphasizing the quality of locations and the helpfulness of the guide. This is an ideal pick for those wanting to document the park’s most striking features under different lighting conditions.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive evening photography experience with expert guidance.
$395 per person
6. Moab: Arches, Canyonlands, and Moab Photography Day Trip
Finally, at number 6, the Moab: Arches, Canyonlands, and Moab Photography Day Trip offers a full 10-hour day exploring two of Utah’s most dramatic parks. Led by a local photographer, this group tour includes snacks, water, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
What sets this trip apart is the comprehensive nature—covering the geology, formations, and best photographic angles of both Canyonlands and Arches. It’s especially good for travelers who want a broad overview of the region’s landscape with professional guidance on making the most of their camera. Reviewers appreciate the knowledge sharing and the ability to see a wide variety of landscapes in one day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a full-day, in-depth photographic exploration of Utah’s iconic parks.
$395 per person
How to Choose Your Photography Experience in Moab
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and specific interests. If you’re new to astrophotography, the Milky Way Photography offers a focused night sky experience. For those wanting a comprehensive, skill-building day, the Day of Photography provides expert guidance across several prime spots. Sunset and night tours are perfect for capturing the park’s magic as day turns to night, while the full-day trips are best if you want to explore a wider area with a seasoned photographer.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak months from spring to fall, when Moab’s landscapes are at their most photogenic. Think about your skill level—beginners may prefer guided tours with instruction, while experienced shooters might focus on astrophotography or sunset shoots to hone their craft.
To sum it up, Moab’s diverse landscapes and dark skies offer endless opportunities for stunning photography. Whether you prefer guided workshops, astrophotography, or capturing sunset colors, these six tours provide something for all. For a well-rounded experience that combines instruction with exploration, the Day of Photography is a standout. Night sky enthusiasts should consider the Milky Way Photography for its unbeatable dark sky setting. No matter your choice, early booking ensures you won’t miss out on these remarkable photography opportunities in Moab.