Utah is a photographer’s paradise, thanks to its dramatic landscapes, colorful rock formations, and endless horizons. Whether you’re a seasoned shutterbug or just looking to up your Instagram game, Utah offers scenery like no other. We especially love the Capitol Reef Photography Tours for their expert guidance and personalized attention, which help you master composition amid some of the state’s most striking settings. The combination of stunning vistas and professional instruction makes for a memorable experience, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset.
When it comes to choosing a photography experience in Utah, the options vary from well-rounded national park tours to unique off-road adventures. To help you decide, here’s a quick overview of the top three photography tours, each with its own special appeal.
1. Capitol Reef Photography Tours
At number one, the Capitol Reef Photography Tours stands out for its focus on helping you improve your photos while exploring the park’s hidden corners. For around $229 per person, you get an approximately 3-hour small-group outing led by a professional photographer. The tour offers options for sunrise, sunset, or specific locations, tailoring the experience to your preferred lighting conditions. Your guide will show you how to handle exposure, framing, and other technical skills, making this a perfect choice if you want hands-on instruction in a relaxed setting.
What sets this tour apart is the small group size—just four people—which ensures personal coaching and plenty of time to ask questions. The tour includes comfortable, air-conditioned transportation and pickup service, making logistics hassle-free. Many past participants, like a reviewer who called the guide “very willing to answer all my questions,” appreciate the personalized approach and the chance to learn skills that will last a lifetime.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want expert tips and exclusive access to some of Capitol Reef’s best photo spots without feeling rushed.
2. Hanksville: Purple Mountain Photography Tour
Coming in second, the Hanksville: Purple Mountain Photography Tour offers a mix of futuristic and surreal scenery. Priced at $220 per person, this 2 to 4-hour adventure takes you from Capitol Reef to the Blue Bentonite Hills and the Mars Research Facility. The highlight is capturing the otherworldly beauty of the azure slopes and the innovative architecture of the Mars Research Station—an intriguing mix of science and landscape photography.
This tour is particularly appealing for those interested in a diverse range of images, combining geology with a hint of space-age architecture. The itinerary includes a stop at the Mars Research Facility, where you can photograph the exterior of this high-tech installation that resembles a sci-fi set. The Blue Bentonite Hills provide vibrant, textured landscapes that are perfect for more abstract or landscape shots. While reviews are limited, the experience offers a well-rounded mix of geology, innovation, and natural beauty.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a quick, varied outing that combines natural wonders with a touch of science and engineering.
$220.00 per person
3. Cathedral Valley Photo Tour
Last but not least, the Cathedral Valley Photo Tour offers a longer, more immersive experience—around 4 hours and 45 minutes—perfect for serious photographers ready for a dirt-road adventure. For $249 per person, the tour travels deep into the Uintah Basin to reach the iconic Temple of the Sun and Temple of the Moon. These towering rock formations provide dramatic backdrops, especially during the late afternoon when the light hits just right.
This tour is unique because it involves off-road driving on rough terrain, requiring a 4WD vehicle. The guide will take you to carefully selected vantage points where you can capture these monumental structures from multiple perspectives. The rocky roads and changing weather add an element of unpredictability, which can enhance your photos’ authenticity. The guide’s focus on technique and composition ensures you leave with more than just pretty pictures—your skills will be sharper.
Reviewers don’t have many comments yet, but the emphasis on timing the light and the exclusive access to these remote sites make it an excellent choice for dedicated photographers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those willing to venture off the beaten path and invest time in capturing one of Utah’s most distinctive landscapes.
$249.00 per person
How to Choose Your Photography Experience
When deciding which tour suits your needs, consider your budget, time, interests, and physical fitness. If you want a quick but highly personalized lesson in Capitol Reef’s vistas, the Capitol Reef Photography Tours offers excellent value and expert guidance. For a shorter adventure that combines science and geology with surreal scenery, the Hanksville Purple Mountain Tour is a good pick. If you’re passionate about reaching remote sites and capturing dramatic rock formations, the Cathedral Valley Photo Tour provides an immersive, off-road experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons in spring and fall when Utah’s landscapes are at their most photogenic. Think about your skill level and what scenery excites you most—whether it’s the iconic arches, alien landscapes, or towering monoliths.
Utah offers a range of photography experiences that suit different styles and interests. For those who want instruction and intimacy, the Capitol Reef tour is hard to beat. If you’re after diverse landscapes with a touch of science, Hanksville’s trip offers a fresh perspective. And if you’re willing to go off the beaten track for truly epic landscapes, Cathedral Valley delivers unforgettable images. Whichever you choose, these tours promise to help you capture Utah’s stunning scenery in a way that will inspire you long after your trip ends. Be sure to plan ahead and book early to secure your spot—these experiences fill up fast!