2024 Southern Utah Epic 4-Park Spring
Photo Workshop
With Matt Suess
May 12 - 18, 2024
Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches & Canyonlands National Parks, Utah
Join us for an Epic 4-Park Experience as we journey from Bryce Canyon National Park to Capitol Reef National Park and then finish in Arches & Canyonlands National Parks.
Only open to 8 photographers!
The Basics:
Dates
7 Epic Days, 7 Nights:
Sunday, May 12 - Saturday, May 18, 2024
Location
Four National Parks in Southern Utah: Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches & Canyonlands National Parks, Utah
Group Details
Open to any skill level from beginner to professional. We will be out photographing sunrise and sunset with a break in the middle of the day.
Limited to just 8 photographers.
Physical Activity
Easy to Moderate & Potentially Strenuous on One Hike. Each workshop client needs to be in decent physical condition with the ability to walk on trails up to 2-4 miles round trip.
Tuition Fees
$2,947
Lodging, food, transportation, etc. is not included.
Your Instructors & Guides
Matt Suess Will be your photo instructor and guide during this workshop.
I am an authorized CUA permit holder of the National Park Service and conduct my workshops based on the permit’s guidelines.
"Matt is a great teacher, Grand Teton National Park is spectacular, you'll get the photos you want, and you can expect to be with a terrific group of people."
A.J.
2019 June Milky Way Grand Teton Photo Workshop Client
Hi - I'm Matt Suess!
Spend 7 days and 7 nights with me touring four of the most photogenic National Parks in Southern Utah! Our epic journey starts in Bryce Canyon, followed by Capitol Reef, and we end up in Arches & Canyonlands National Park. I'll be with you every step of the way helping you create amazing photographs while having an epic time as we travel throughout the parks.
This is the second year I'm offering this workshop. The May 2023 workshop sold out right away so don't hesitate to register for 2024. There are only 6 total spots available and you won't want to miss this adventure!
Our Experience Starts at
BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK, UTAH
The major feature of the park is Bryce Canyon, which despite its name, is not a canyon, but a collection of giant natural amphitheaters along the eastern side of the Paunsaugunt Plateau.
Bryce is distinctive due to geological structures called hoodoos, formed by frost weathering and stream erosion of the river and lake bed sedimentary rocks. The red, orange, and white colors of the rocks provide spectacular views for park visitors. Bryce Canyon National Park is much smaller and sits at a much higher elevation than nearby Zion National Park. The rim at Bryce varies from 8,000 to 9,000 feet (2,400 to 2,700 m).
The park covers 35,835 acres (55.992 sq mi;) and receives substantially fewer visitors than Zion National Park (nearly 4.3 million in 2016) or Grand Canyon National Park (nearly 6 million in 2016), largely due to Bryce's more remote location.
- source Wikipedia & NPS
And Continues to
CAPITOL REEF NATIONAL PARK, UTAH
Capitol Reef encompasses the Waterpocket Fold, a warp in the earth's crust that is 65 million years old. It is the largest exposed monocline in North America. In this fold, newer and older layers of earth folded over each other in an S-shape. This warp, probably caused by the same colliding continental plates that created the Rocky Mountains, has weathered and eroded over millennia to expose layers of rock and fossils. The park is filled with brilliantly colored sandstone cliffs, gleaming white domes, and contrasting layers of stone and earth.
The area was named for a line of white domes and cliffs of Navajo Sandstone, each of which looks somewhat like the United States Capitol building, that run from the Fremont River to Pleasant Creek on the Waterpocket Fold.
The fold forms a north-to-south barrier that has barely been breached by roads. Early settlers referred to parallel impassable ridges as "reefs", from which the park gets the second half of its name. The first paved road was constructed through the area in 1962. State Route 24 cuts through the park traveling east and west between Canyonlands National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park, but few other paved roads invade the rugged landscape.
The park is filled with canyons, cliffs, towers, domes, and arches. The Fremont River has cut canyons through parts of the Waterpocket Fold, but most of the park is arid desert. A scenic drive shows park visitors some highlights, but it runs only a few miles from the main highway. Hundreds of miles of trails and unpaved roads lead into the equally scenic backcountry.
- source Wikipedia
And Finishes in
ARCHES & CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARKS, UTAH
Arches & Canyonlands National Parks are known for its unique geological formations, including over 2,000 natural stone arches, balanced rocks, and towering sandstone fins.
Arches' natural history dates back over 300 million years to the time when the area was covered by ancient seas, which eventually dried up and left behind a layer of salt. Over time, erosion and weathering shaped the sandstone, creating the iconic arches seen today.
Canyonlands National Park is known for its rugged canyons, towering mesas, and winding rivers. The park's natural history dates back to the formation of the Colorado Plateau over 300 million years ago. The Colorado River and its tributaries have carved deep canyons through the rock, exposing millions of years of geological history. The park also features unique rock formations, including spires, hoodoos, and natural bridges.
Both parks offer scenic vistas and breathtaking natural beauty. The contrasting colors of the sandstone, the unique geological formations, and the expansive vistas of the canyons make these parks a popular destination for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers alike.
Hike to Delicate Arch
One morning we will hike to Delicate Arch. The hike is moderately difficult, covering 3 miles round trip with a steep uphill climb towards the end. However, the reward is worth the effort as we are greeted with one of the most iconic natural wonders of the world. Photographers will need to be in decent shape to do this hike.
One of the most iconic formations of Delicate Arch stands around 60 feet tall and is made entirely of sandstone, delicately balancing on a small rock formation. The arch frames the surrounding landscape, providing a picturesque view that is perfect for photographers. The red rock formations of Arches National Park, the blue sky, and the distant La Sal Mountains make for a stunning backdrop.
For those who can’t or don’t want to make the hike, there will be an option to stay and photograph at the Delicate Arch Viewpoint where there is a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape including Delicate Arch from a distance. I can also provide other locations to photograph during the time others are hiking Delicate Arch.
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"Matt is the best instructor I've had for any creative activity, but especially photography. He is patient in explaining things, and really helps you focus on the areas that YOU want to develop rather than focusing on what he thinks you need improvement on.
He also is the only instructor I've had in creative endeavors that is so supportive of you owning your unique style - I've always been one to do things my way, and most instructors struggle with students who don't "do as you're told," but Matt teaches to help you learn rather than trying to get you to do things his way.
Matt also is great about making sure that each person gets heard and gets time for their questions to be answered, which requires facilitation of the discussions in such a way that people aren't talked over but also that people don't feel like they are being shut down...this is not an easy thing to do. Plus, he has a great sense of humor, which is always appreciated!
The Milky Way Workshop felt more about learning some techniques, setting up the shot, then waiting to see if it worked. This was more thinking on your feet and instantly applying things and adjusting (which was likely part of my challenge...my brain wasn't ready).
I would recommend both trips, and have so loved showing people the magic that was captured both times. And it's fun to be able to brag about the great teacher we had each time."
Emily L.
2018 June Tetons Milky Way and 2019 Spring Grand Teton Photo Workshop Client
WHAT YOU WILL LEARN
With a small workshop size of just 8 clients there will be plenty of time to work with me on a one-on-one basis.
Learn How to Use Camera Filters
Using Camera Filters to Control Exposure & For Creative Effects Can Dramatically Improve Your Photos
I was likely using at least one camera filter for pretty much every photo you see here on this page. From a circular polarizer to enhance color & reduce glare/reflection, to a split neutral density filter to help balance exposures, to solid neutral density filters to allow me to shoot long exposures of the clouds - I used them all.
Prior to our workshop we can arrange a private Zoom call to go over your specific filter needs to make sure you have the right setup for this workshop.
Even better, I am an Official NiSi Reseller and you can safely & securely order whatever filters you need direct from me! I even have an exclusive discount just for my workshop clients 😊.
I shoot exclusively with NiSi Filters due to their lack of color casts and quality of products. Of course you are free to use and bring whichever filters you already have even if they are not NiSi Filters.
Who Is This Workshop For?
This workshop is designed for any skill level, yet a DSLR/Mirrorless or equivalent camera with interchangeable lenses AND a sturdy tripod are required, as well as a basic working knowledge of your camera.
Most clients who take my workshops are beginners to advanced amateurs and even pros. My workshops are filled with hands-on instruction & demonstrations. I encourage & help find and develop each clients' unique personal style of photography.
Physical Difficulty:
EASY to MODERATE & Potentially Strenuous on One Hike
Each workshop client needs to be in decent physical condition with the ability to walk on trails up to 2-4 miles round trip.
Weather
These are the average high and low temps in mid-May during the workshop.
Bryce Canyon: 64F and 37F
Capitol Reef: 74F and 48F
Arches & Canyonlands: 77F and 47F
Unique Features of This Workshop
These Bonuses are Unique to My Workshops.
You will not find another instructor providing so much extra value to help move you forward with your photography!!
BONUS #1
1hr LIVE Online Group Welcome Zoom Call: Approx. 2 months prior to the start of the workshop we will all meet online for a Welcome Zoom Call. I'll cover where we will be going, discuss safety, show you some photos of what to expect, discuss what to bring, and will go over some basic camera settings. Bring your questions and meet your fellow attendees in this informal social gathering. ($175 Value)
BONUS #2
1.5hr LIVE Online Group Review and Q&A: Approx. 4-8 weeks following the workshop we will all meet online again. I know that a few weeks following a workshop, a bunch of questions come up from what was learned (and sometimes forgotten). Use this as your opportunity to get all of those questions that come up following a workshop answered, get feedback on your photos, and connect with your fellow attendees once again. ($175 Value)
BONUS #3
What to Do With These Photos! You will get access to my mini course on organizing your photos, captioning, adding keywords, and storing your photos. ($37 Value)
BONUS #4
How to Post Process Your Southern Utah Images: An online mini course teaching you my secrets to post processing our Southern Utah photos. ($297 Value)
BONUS #5
Access to a Private Online Portal: You will receive access to a special private online workshop portal where you can share photos from the workshop, get up-to-date workshop info, and watch the bonus videos. ($97 Value)
BONUS #6
Special $175 Savings on Your Next Workshop: You will receive a Special Alumni Credit that can be applied to any future field workshop that starts within 2 years of this workshop's start date. ($175 Value)
BONUS #7
Special 15% off NiSi Filters: You will receive a Special Workshop Client Only Discount of 15% off your first order of NiSi Filters. ($155 Value on Average)
BONUS #8
Special Savings on Fotopro Tripods: You will receive a Special Workshop Client Only Discount towards your purchase of a Fotopro Tripod. ($135 Value on Average)
BONUS #9
Special 15% off Summit Creative Camera Bags: You will receive a Special Workshop Client Only Discount of 15% off your first order of any Summit Creative Camera Bag & Accessories. ($55 Value on Average)
Each BONUS is specifically designed to help you with your photography journey beyond the short time we are all together in-person.
🏆 Total Value In BONUSES: $1,301
We will be at our locations photographing just before sunrise and ending our day just after sunset. During our travel days between parks, we will do that mid-day.
During mid-day when we are not traveling and when the light isn’t great we will be taking a break for a few hours to recharge batteries, download images, and rest up for the evening sessions.
However we are ultimately at the mercy of Mother Nature and I will be diligently studying weather forecasts during our time together with the numerous weather resources I always use when planning for the best light.
So our day-to-day schedule is absolutely always subject to change immensely based on the light/photography potential on any given day, thus this itinerary is intentionally planned to be extremely loose and variable during our time together.
There have been numerous times on my workshops where we ended up not taking the scheduled mid-day break to instead chase the light. And our efforts were always rewarded with amazing photographs...
So in other words, be prepared for the unexpected!
Bryce Canyon National Park
Day 1: Sunday Afternoon, May 12
We will meet at 4pm for a group dinner, then head out into the park to photograph though sunset which is at approx. 8:28pm.
Day 2: Monday, May 13
We will be at our sunrise location before sunrise which is at approx. 6:19am and photograph till approx. 10am or noon. From 10am to approx. 4pm we will take a break, meeting back up around 4pm for a group dinner folled by a sunset shoot. Sunset is at approx. 8:29pm
Day 3: Tuesday Morning, May 14
We will head out for our sunrise shoot and end morning session around 9am. We will then check out of our hotels and make our way to Capitol Reef.
Capitol Reef National Park
Day 3: Tuesday Afternoon, May 14
We will meet at 4pm for a group dinner, then head out into the park to photograph though sunset which is at approx. 8:28pm.
Day 4: Wednesday, May 15
We will head out for our morning shoot and arrive to our location before sunrise which is at approx. 6:15am and stay out photographing till around 10am or noon. We will then take a break and meet up again at approx. 4pm for a group dinner followed by our sunset shoot. Sunset is at approx. 8:28pm.
Day 5: Thursday Morning, May 16
We will head out for our sunrise shoot and end morning session around 9am. We will then check out of our hotels and make our way to Moab.
Arches & Canyonlands National Park
Day 5: Thursday Afternoon, May 16
We will meet at 4pm for a group dinner, then head out into the park to photograph though sunset which is at approx. 8:28pm.
Day 6: Friday, May 17
We will head out for our morning shoot and arrive to our location before sunrise which is at approx. 6:19am and stay out photographing till around 10am or noon. We will then take a break and meet up again at approx. 4pm for a group dinner followed by our sunset shoot. Sunset is at approx. 8:28pm.
Day 7: Saturday, May 18
We will head out for our morning shoot and arrive to our location before sunrise which is at approx. 6:15am and stay out photographing till around 10am or noon. We will then take a break and meet up again at approx. 4pm for a group dinner followed by our sunset shoot. Sunset is at approx. 8:28pm.
Workshop ends Saturday evening, allowing you to schedule flights anytime on Sunday, May 19
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
Harley M.
"I think the way you handled the workshop was as near perfect as any student could ask for."
2019 Fall Grand Teton Photo Workshop Client
Winnie A.
"I really cannot wait for this... figuring out how to make this particular trip happen has been on my mind since I first decided I wanted to get into landscape photography. And I know after working with you this year, I will truly be ready for it!"
2022 Photo Mentorship Client & 2023 Lofoten Aurora Workshop Client
Jill E.
"You have the utmost patience and instead of just telling me to do something, or how to do something, you helped me to think about solutions. Many instructors/leaders have an ego and those individuals are difficult to learn from. You don’t. You are a top-notch instructor."
2019 Spring Grand Teton Photo Workshop Client
OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER
What Airport and When to Arrive
One option is to fly in and out of Salt Lake City International Airport. You will have a 4.5hr drive to Bryce Canyon from there to start our workshop, and a 4hr drive back to the airport from Arches on Sunday, May 18.
Another option would be to fly into St. George Regional Airport in Utah, which is 2.5hrs away from Bryce Canyon. You'd then want to fly out of Grand Junction Regional Airport in Colorado after leaving Arches on Sunday, May 18. This is a 1.5hr drive.
You will want to give yourself plenty of time to arrive in Bryce Canyon National Park and check into your room and be ready to meet the group at 4pm on our first day, Sunday, May 12, 2024.
Where to Stay
These are the hotels that are HIGHLY SUGGESTED you make your reservations for to keep everyone together. There are no group rates, so be sure to use your AAA card for discounts.
Nights of May 12 & 13, Bryce Canyon: Best Western Plus Ruby's Inn
Nights of May 14 & 15 in Capitol Reef: Capitol Reef Resort
Nights of May 16, 17, 18 in Moab for Arches & Canyonlands: La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham
A complete list of What to Bring will be provided. This list will mention required and suggested items regarding camera equipment and clothing.
Weather: These are the average high and low temps in mid-May during the workshop.
Bryce Canyon: 64F and 37F
Capitol Reef: 74F and 48F
Arches & Canyonlands: 77F and 47F
Carpooling
You'll need your own car during the workshop to drive between parks, but we will carpool once we are at the parks to make it easier for us for parking.
Travel Insurance - STRONGLY RECOMMENDED
It is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED to purchase quality travel insurance.
Some companies allow for the purchase of Cancel for Any Reason Coverage that expands the list of reasons for your canceling to include things such as sudden work or family obligation and even a simple change of mind.
More information will be provided upon registration.
Traveling With a Spouse/Companion
This workshop has a no tag-along policy. Spouses, family members, friends, etc. who are traveling with you and who haven’t registered are unable to partake in any group functions. Workshops are also not a location for pets and as such are not allowed with the exception of guide dogs. If a spouse or friend wants to attend they will need to register as a regular client.
2024 Southern Utah Epic 4-Park Spring Photo Workshop
ALL WORKSHOP ATTENDEES MUST ALSO FILL OUT AND SIGN MY ONLINE REGISTRATION FORM HERE.
Cancellation & Refund Policy for This Workshop
We know that plans can change, unforeseen circumstances can happen and no one wants to miss out on the trip of a lifetime. To provide the best customer support possible and to keep groups small and affordable, our cancellation policy ensures we can continue to provide clients the best possible foto experience.
For this workshop the following applies:
If you wish to cancel or transfer to another workshop MORE than 120 Days from the Start:
your registration fee will be transferable to another workshop by Matt Suess with a $275 administrative fee.
If you wish to cancel or transfer to another workshop LESS than 120 Days from the Start:
no refunds or transfers (assuming we cannot fill your spot)
Frequently Asked Questions
While a lot of time we will be photographing within relatively easy walking distance from our cars, there will be some hikes we will be taking with distances of 2-4 miles on some uneven terrain and some elevation gain. The most strenuous hike would be to Delicate Arch. Attendees should be in good physical condition.
This workshop is open to all photography levels from beginner to pro. I have had clients who didn't know what an f-stop was and I have had those who are just about ready to or are already selling their own prints.
Being a small workshop, I am able to work with each client individually no matter their experience level to help them improve and reach their individual goals.
In order to maximize shooting time in the field, we will not be spending time together on the computer during the workshop. Instead I now offer included online post processing videos specific to our workshop in addition to a live group Q&A following the workshop. Wouldn't you rather be out shooting instead of inside the hotel room on your computer? An exception to this would be if the weather is bad enough that it prevents us from creating any meaningful shots. Should that happen we can spend some time on the computers.
This is primarily a landscape workshop. There are some wildlife in the parks so if you want to bring a long lens just in-case feel free to do so.
This workshop has a no tag-along policy. Spouses, family members, friends, etc. who are traveling with you and who haven’t registered are unable to partake in any group functions.
Workshops are also not a location for pets and as such are not allowed with the exception of guide dogs. If a spouse or friend wants to attend they will need to register as a regular client.
Frequently Asked Questions
I absolutely love teaching & guiding! I have over 30 years of professional photography experience and am detail orientated and put the needs of my clients first and answering all of their questions.
I have a unique photo background with experience creating and selling my work in such diverse fields as photojournalism, sports, portrait, wedding, editorial, and commercial photography.
My specialty since 2006 has been fine art landscape, wildlife, night sky & Milky Way, and travel photography. I draw from all of my life experiences to provide you with whatever technical and artistic guidance you need.
With my help, you will grow and expand your visual expression as well as your technical skills. In addition, you will have a great time in the process!
I will show you how to create inspiring and amazing fine art quality photographs. You will learn how to see more creatively and how to translate that vision into a final image that has emotional impact.
I make it easy to learn techniques and concepts that you will take with you every time you walk out the door with your camera. I have extensive experience shooting and selling my fine art photography as well as teaching the concepts of photography.
I am a hands-on learner myself and teach using a hands-on approach that will give you the best opportunity to retain information and further your photography skills long after the workshop has concluded.
Lastly I love teaching small groups. Most of my workshops feature small sizes with 6 to 12 clients on average. This allows for extremely low teacher to client ratios and provides valuable one-on-one opportunities to work with me and my guides during the workshop.
Unless specifically mentioned otherwise, I have a no tag-along policy. Spouses, family members, friends, etc. who are traveling with you and who haven’t registered are unable to partake in any group functions. Workshops are also not a location for pets and thus are not allowed with the exception of guide dogs. If a spouse or friend wants to attend they will need to register as a regular client.
Yes I do on occasion and only when the light is amazing or when I need to photograph certain subjects for later classroom use and field discussion of composition and exposure.
When I do photograph along with my clients, the goal is to inspire them to learn to see creative compositions. It can be extremely valuable watching me work a scene.
Rest assured however that I am far more concerned that my cliens get the shot and I ALWAYS put their needs first.
It depends upon the workshop, so please check with the specific workshop you are interested in. Most workshops are geared towards beginner to professional abilities.
I do NOT provide travel insurance as part of my workshop fees, but I definitely recommend clients get it. I highly recommend trip insurance that also includes travel health insurance. I personally use Allianz Travel. The cost for travel insurance is typically 4-7% of the total trip cost, depending upon age and other variable factors.
Tuition includes all lectures, fieldwork, guiding, any classroom instruction and critiques of your digital files during any classroom sessions.
Travel & transportation costs, lodging, entrance fees, and meals are not included in the cost of admission unless otherwise specified.
You will receive a workshop welcome kit before the start that will contain detailed information regarding the proper gear to bring with you.
Do not dismiss bad weather, as great photos can be found under some seemingly dreary skies. Many times we will be out in stormy weather, provided it’s not putting you or your equipment at risk.
Great pictures can happen during fog, snow, rain and mist.
If conditions are too extreme, we will find a location to wait out the weather. During this time, we can work on our images on our laptops while I assist you and give demonstrations.
I do not supply transportation for my workshops unless otherwise specified. I encourage participants to carpool once the workshop has begun, to minimize our impact on the environment and to facilitate parking. Please come expecting to share your car with others or to jump in and share someone else’s.
Each workshop has it's own cancellation policy you can review on each workshop's registration page.
Visit Matt's Sponsors, Partners & Friends
OM SYSTEM / Olympus Cameras & Lenses
I am an Official NiSi Reseller and you can order your NiSi Filters direct from me here.
I am an Official Fotopro Tripods Reseller and you can order your Fotopro tripods direct from me here
I am an Official Summit Creative Camera Bag Reseller and you can order them direct from me here.
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Matt Suess
Photography has always been a huge part of my life starting at the age of 12 when I had my own black & white chemical darkroom. That early interest launched a full-time professional photography career that began in 1990 and continues today.
For the first 17 years of my career I was a photojournalist based in New England. I am a digital photography pioneer and began teaching digital photography to photojournalists in the late 90’s, helping bring digital cameras to two different newspapers. I was awarded the 2003 New England Press Associations Photographer of the Year award for my work at the Cape Cod Times. During my time as a photojournalist, I also photographed weddings & portraits, as well as corporate & commercial assignments.
In 2006 I decided to leave all of that behind and move West, where I am now a fine art landscape, nature, wildlife, travel, and Milky Way photographer, educator, and publisher. I also accept select luxury resort & architectural photography assignments.
I teach numerous field & classroom workshops throughout the year as well as online courses and I provide occasional free online webinars. You may have already seen my videos/webinars for OM SYSTEM / Olympus, Hunts Photo & Video, B&H Photo, Skylum and ON1. My passion for sharing and teaching what I have learned during my long career is evident in my down-to-earth and encouraging approach with my clients.
I am honored to be sponsored by Olympus / OM SYSTEM as an OM SYSTEM Ambassador but I teach photography to anyone using any camera brand.
I live in Bozeman, Montana with my blue heeler cattle dog. You can find me online on Instagram and YouTube at @mattsuessphoto
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