2025 Bryce, Arches & Beyond:
A Southern Utah Photo Odyssey
With Matt Suess
From Hoodoos to Arches: Your ultimate photography eXperience awaits as we photograph some of Southern Utah’s most scenic wonders at Bryce Canyon, Arches, & Canyonlands National Parks and Dead Horse Point State Park.
Workshop Overview
Picture this: you are standing at the edge of Bryce Canyon at sunrise, the crisp desert air carrying the scent of pine and the soft rustle of the wind, while the hoodoos ignite in fiery hues of orange and red.
You’ll feel the crunch of the earth beneath your boots as we hike to secret spots, away from the crowds, where the silence is broken only by the soft whisper of the wind.
Feel the smooth, weathered sandstone under your fingertips in Arches National Park as you capture a perfectly composed shot of Delicate Arch with the La Sal Mountains in the background.
The earthy scent of juniper and sage surrounds you as we traverse Canyonlands, where the vastness of the canyons fills you with a deep sense of awe and connection to nature, leaving you humbled and inspired.
And at Dead Horse Point, the golden light of sunset will flood the landscape with warmth, illuminating the curves of the Colorado River far below and leaving you awestruck and deeply inspired. Each moment is a blend of joy, peace, and exhilaration—a reminder of how powerful and beautiful the world truly is.
This adventure and eXperience awaits you!
Discover the Drama and Beauty of Utah’s Most Iconic Landscapes
A Photographer’s Playground in the Heart of Southern Utah
Step into a photographer’s paradise with my 2025 Bryce, Arches & Beyond: A Southern Utah Photo Odyssey. This exclusive, small-group photography workshop is your gateway to capturing jaw-dropping images of some of the most photogenic landscapes in the world. With just 8 photographers, you’ll have personalized guidance to help you elevate your skills, no matter your experience level or equipment.
Bryce Canyon National Park offers a feast for the eyes and the lens. It’s a series of natural amphitheaters filled with surreal hoodoos—towering rock formations sculpted by frost and water over millennia. At elevations of 8,000–9,000 feet, Bryce delivers a unique perspective, with its brilliant red, orange, and white hues glowing in the changing light of sunrise and sunset. You’ll learn how to capture the interplay of colors and shadows for stunning, print-worthy images.
From Bryce, our journey takes us to the mesmerizing sandstone formations of Arches National Park, home to over 2,000 natural stone arches and dramatic balanced rocks. With millions of years of geological history etched into its landscape, this park provides endless opportunities to master composition, scale, and texture in your photography.
At Canyonlands National Park, the rugged beauty of deep canyons, towering mesas, and winding rivers awaits. Here, you’ll unlock the secrets of storytelling in landscape photography, as the Colorado River reveals layers of Earth’s history carved into the rock.
Finally, we’ll stand at the breathtaking overlook of Dead Horse Point State Park, where the Colorado River snakes through the landscape in a sweeping panorama. At an altitude of 5,900 feet, this vantage point offers unparalleled views, perfect for capturing the expansive beauty of the Southwest.
Why This Workshop?
We’ll be at each location during the best light—sunrise and sunset—when these natural wonders truly come alive. Whether you’re shooting with a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or even an iPhone, you’ll learn to harness light, shadow, and color to create unforgettable images. With personalized instruction from myself you’ll leave with not just incredible pictures, but also the skills to take your photography to new heights.
Don’t miss this chance to explore, learn, and capture the wonders of Bryce, Arches, Canyonlands, and Dead Horse Point with a group of like-minded photographers.
Spots are limited to ensure an intimate, immersive experience—secure yours today!
Highlights
Exclusive Small Group Size
With only 10 spots available, you’ll get individual guidance and personal feedback, ensuring that each day is tailored to you. This intimate setting allows for a relaxed, immersive experience where your creativity can thrive.
Access to Iconic Locations
Explore Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, and Dead Horse Point with pro photographer Matt Suess as your guide. You'll photograph the most stunning vistas at the perfect time of day, ensuring breathtaking images every step of the way.
Golden Hour Photography Focus
We’ll be in position for sunrise and sunset at each park, when the light is most magical. You'll learn how to harness these fleeting moments to create truly extraordinary images.
Expert Guidance Every Step
Whether you’re shooting with a DSLR, mirrorless, or even your phone, I’ll teach you techniques to elevate your photos. You’ll leave with new skills and insights that you can use for years to come.
Master Light and Shadow
Learn how to use natural light and shadow to create dramatic, eye-catching compositions. You’ll gain confidence in your ability to adapt to changing conditions and make every shot count.
Balanced Color and Black & White
We’ll explore the power of both vibrant color photography and classic black and white. You’ll learn when to choose each style for maximum impact and how to make both shine in your portfolio.
Hands-On Creative Coaching
Get real-time feedback as you shoot, helping you fine-tune your technique and composition. By the end of the workshop, you’ll see noticeable improvements in your photography.
All Skill Levels Welcome
Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this workshop is tailored to your experience level. You’ll feel comfortable, inspired, and supported no matter where you are on your photography journey.
Unforgettable Adventure and Fun
This isn’t just about taking photos—it’s about creating lasting memories with a group of like-minded creatives. You’ll leave with not only incredible images but also new friends and stories you’ll treasure forever.
Important...
My photo workshops regularly sell out far in advance. It's recommended to book as soon as possible to avoid missing out.
At a Glance:
WORKSHOP DETAILS
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.
Mobile phone photographers - especially iPhone - are certainly welcome!
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
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.
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 at the end of the workshop.
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 Saturday, May 17. 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, Monday, May 12, 2025.
Where to Stay
6 nights lodging is included during the workshop on the nights of May 12 and including the night of May 17.
While in Bryce Canyon we are staying at: Best Western Plus Ruby's Inn
While in Moab for Arches & Canyonlands we will be staying at: La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham
*Note: Price is based on double occupancy. We make every effort to connect you with a roommate for double occupancy. However, if we’re unable to make a match, the single supplement will apply.
Single Room Upgrade is an additional $850.
What to Bring / Weather
A complete list of What to Bring will be provided. This list will mention required and suggested items regarding camera equipment and clothing.
These are the average high and low temps in mid-May during the workshop.
Bryce Canyon: 64F and 37F
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. I will need 3 drivers.
What Is Included
What Is Not Included
Travel Insurance
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.
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: Monday 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: Tuesday, 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 followed by a sunset shoot. Sunset is at approx. 8:29pm
Day 3: Wednesday 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 Moab, stopping along the way for some photos.
Arches & Canyonlands National Park, Dead Horse Point State Park
Day 3: Wednesday 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 & 5: Thursday & Friday, May 15 & 16
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 6: Saturday, May 17
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 after sunset on Saturday night.
Book your return flight anytime on/after Sunday, May 18
Secure your spot now and prepare for a one-of-a-kind cultural and photographic adventure!
2025 Bryce, Arches & Beyond:
A Southern Utah Photo Odyssey
WORKSHOP FEES: $3,497
$1,000 due today, remaining $2,497 due by January 12, 2025
A SINGLE ROOM UPGRADE IS AVAILABLE FOR AN ADDITIONAL $850
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 $300 administrative fee.
If you wish to cancel or transfer to another workshop LESS than 120 Days from the Start:
no refunds or transfers (assuming you cannot fill your spot)
You can view my full cancellation & refund policy along with other important information here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! This workshop is perfect for iPhone photographers of all levels. I’ll guide you step-by-step, teaching techniques that will make a noticeable difference in your photos—no prior experience needed.
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 a premium experience, designed for small groups to ensure you get plenty of individual guidance and access to unique locations. You’ll also enjoy handpicked dining experiences and my expert knowledge of the area, making this trip truly one-of-a-kind.
Definitely! This workshop is paced to allow you to fully enjoy each location, and we keep walking distances reasonable with the exception of Delicate Arch (an alternate view of Delicate Arch will be provided for those who can't do the original hike). If you have specific concerns, just let me know ahead of time so I can plan accordingly.
With only 8 participants, the atmosphere will be relaxed and friendly. I’ve designed this to be a welcoming space for all, where everyone can feel comfortable asking questions and sharing their work.
No problem! Just let me know your restrictions when you book, and I’ll make sure there are meal options that work for you at every restaurant.
Absolutely! I break down each technique in simple, clear steps, so you’ll feel confident even if you’re totally new to this. My goal is to make learning fun and easy.
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.
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
"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 Student
2025 Bryce, Arches & Beyond: A Southern Utah Photo Odyssey
Visit Matt's Sponsors, Partners & Friends
Cameras & Photo Gear
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
Photo Software & Websites
Radiant Photo - a new photo editing program that is a MUST-HAVE and one I use as a finishing tool on nearly all my photos. Save 10% with coupon code: mattsuess
Save with code: mattsuess20
Save with code: mattsuess10
Mylio Photos is a really awesome photo management cataloging program that comes highly recommended from me. Check out a Free Trial with special savings.
DxO makes some of my favorite photo processing software such as: PhotoLab 6, PureRAW 3, FilmPack 6, & the NIK Collection.
Topaz Labs makes popular plugins like: Sharpen AI, Denoise AI, Photo AI, and Gigapixel AI.
SlickPic is an Amazing photo website builder to make impressive Portfolio and/or Gallery Websites that run my Portfolio and Workshop Galleries. Build it yourself or let them do it. Save up to 25% with my special link here.
Biz Software & Clothing
This website, online courses, & shopping cart were built using Systeme - start your free trial today and sell your courses, digital downloads, workshops, products, and more!
I am a brand ambassador for Ororo Heated Clothes and highly recommend their heated gloves, vests, and more!
I use Shopify for sales of my online courses, presets, camera filters, and tripods. Bring your ideas to life on Shopify for just $1/month here.
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
Watch the PetaPixel Documentary:
Off the Beaten Path with Photographer Matt Suess
Join OM SYSTEM Ambassador Matt Suess as he embarks on a photography journey to Stanley, Idaho to capture the incredible Sawtooth Mountains. While getting off the beaten path in one of the most photogenic locations in the United States, Suess describes how he uses the powerful features of his OM-5 camera to capture Idaho's incredible sunrises, sunsets, and nightscapes.
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