Join us on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Utah’s Badlands, a remote and otherworldly landscape that stands among the very best places in the United States for drone photography. Our adventure begins in Salt Lake City before heading south to Hanksville, a small desert outpost surrounded by some of the most dramatic geology in North America. Unlike the nearby national parks, where drone use is restricted, the vast BLM lands outside of Hanksville allow us the freedom to fly and create from the air. This rare combination of spectacular scenery and open skies makes the region an unparalleled classroom for photographers eager to expand their aerial portfolio.

The landscapes here are as diverse as they are surreal. To the east, the slate-gray ridges and golden drainages of the badlands create abstract patterns that seem designed for top-down aerial photography. In the west, the bentonite hills glow in bands of deep red, purple, and ash gray, evoking comparisons to the surface of Mars. Rising from the desert floor, the iconic Factory Butte dominates the skyline and offers endless creative potential, as its stark silhouette and radiating ridgelines transform with every change in angle and light. Nearby, Moonscape Overlook reveals sweeping, lunar-like panoramas that glow at sunrise and sunset, making it one of the most otherworldly shooting locations in the Southwest.

This workshop is designed for photographers of all levels, from those just beginning their drone journey to experienced pilots looking to refine advanced skills. Our instructor will guide you through everything from safe flying practices and flight planning to techniques such as HDR bracketing, panoramic merging, and crafting powerful aerial compositions. You’ll gain confidence with your equipment, learn how to maximize the creative potential of your drone, and return home with an entirely new perspective on landscape photography. Even if you’ve only flown a handful of times before, the supportive environment and immersive shooting schedule will have you comfortable in no time.

While Hanksville is remote, it provides comfortable lodging and dining, giving us the perfect base to focus fully on the photography experience. The isolation of the area means we’ll often have landscapes to ourselves, allowing for uninterrupted flights and unspoiled creativity. Each day is structured around chasing the best possible light, with sunrise and sunset sessions in the field, followed by opportunities for image review, editing discussions, and one-on-one instruction. By the end of the trip, you’ll not only have an incredible collection of images, but also the skills and confidence to carry drone photography into all your future travels.