Eastern Sierra Magic
1-7 October 2025
Join us on the Eastern Sierra Autumn Tour, an unforgettable experience for photography enthusiasts. Discover the timeless beauty of the Eastern Sierra as we take you to iconic locations in their autumnal glory. Our expert guides will help you capture the essence of these stunning landscapes under perfect conditions. Immerse yourself in a breathtaking adventure where your passion for photography meets the vibrant hues of fall.
Itinerary
Day 1: 01 October
In the morning, depart from Las Vegas and drive to Beatty, Nevada, where you can check in and freshen up. Afterward, embark on a scenic journey to the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. Arrive in time to capture the stunning landscape as the sun sets, creating a perfect opportunity for a picturesque and memorable photoshoot amidst the golden sands and dramatic shadows.
Day 2: 02 October
Begin your day by witnessing the breathtaking sunrise at Zabriskie Point in Death Valley National Park. As the first light of dawn paints the rugged landscape with hues of orange and pink, you'll be mesmerized by the otherworldly beauty surrounding you.
After a day of exploration, make your way to Alabama Hills for an enchanting sunset experience. As the sun dips below the horizon, casting its warm glow over the iconic granite formations, you'll be treated to a scene of unparalleled natural beauty. Capture the shifting colors and play of light as the day comes to a close.
Day 3: 03 October
Begin your day with an awe-inspiring sunrise amidst the majestic rock formations of Alabama Hills. As the first light of dawn washes over the rugged landscape, casting dramatic shadows and illuminating the granite peaks.
After soaking in the beauty of the morning, continue your journey to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest for an unforgettable sunset and captivating night photography experience. As the day transitions to dusk, the gnarled and weather-beaten bristlecone pines stand in stark contrast against the colorful sky, creating a scene that is both hauntingly beautiful and deeply mesmerizing.
As night falls, the ancient trees become silhouetted against a canvas of stars, offering a perfect opportunity for capturing the serene beauty of the night sky amidst one of the oldest living organisms on Earth.
Day 4: 04 October
Commence your day with the tranquil beauty of the sunrise amidst the ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest. As the soft morning light filters through the twisted branches of these millennia-old trees, surrounded by nature's timeless elegance.
After basking in the peaceful atmosphere of the forest, embark on a journey to Mono Lake for an unforgettable sunset photoshoot. As the day draws to a close, witness the ethereal beauty of the lake's iconic tufa formations bathed in the warm hues of the setting sun against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Day 5: 05 October
After immersing yourself in the peaceful ambiance of Mono Lake, continue your photographic journey to the picturesque Convict Lake for a breathtaking sunset experience.
Day 6: 06 October
Kickstart your day with a burst of creativity as you photograph the sunrise at Mammoth Lakes Hot Creek. As the sun peeks over the horizon, casting its golden rays upon the steamy waters and rugged surroundings.
As the day unfolds, continue your photographic odyssey to Death Valley's Salt Flats. Here, against the vast expanse of shimmering salt crystals, witness the spectacle of the sunset painting the sky with hues of crimson and gold, offering endless opportunities to capture the beauty and drama of nature's grandeur as another day comes to a close.
Day 7: 07 October
Embark on your final tour-day with the sunrise at Mesquite Sand Dunes in Death Valley National Park. As the first light of dawn bathes the rippling sands in a warm golden glow, you'll witness a breathtaking display of nature's beauty. Capture the tranquil beauty of the dunes as they stretch into the horizon, creating a scene that is both timeless and captivating.
After immersing yourself in the tranquility of the desert sunrise, begin your journey back to Las Vegas, where the conclusion of your tour awaits. Upon returning to Las Vegas, we can drive you directly to the airport to accommodate late afternoon or evening departures.
Details
Maximum Number of Participants
Cost
Inclusive of accommodation (twin sharing) during tour proper, transportation, drivers including guide and workshop fee. (EXCLUSIVE OF AIRFARE COSTS AND FOOD).
Reservation Deposit
Single Occupancy Fee
Cancellations
Deposit is fully refundable if canceled 30 days before the start of the tour, in the event of a government pandemic travel restriction, this 30- day rule will be waived.
Any amount paid in excess of the deposit is fully refundable at any time.
All cancellations must be made by a formal email request.
Photography Skill Level
This workshop is suitable for all levels of photography skills from novice to expert.
Classroom Time
We will split our time between classroom and field work.
Fitness Level
On most of our locations, a light or minimal hike is needed (15 minutes walk). Please make sure that you exercise and have a general check up before the tour.
Airports
Begin: Las Vegas, NV USA (LAS)
End: Las Vegas, NV USA (LAS)
Currency
USD
Power Requirements
US Outlets 110V
WiFi & Mobile Signal
Wifi is available mostly in our hotels. Mobile signal will be spotty. You can buy a prepaid local sim with data access if needed.
Drones
TBA
Travel Insurance
Workshop Cost
Inclusive of accommodation (twin sharing) during tour proper, transportation, drivers including guide and workshop fee. (EXCLUSIVE OF AIRFARE COSTS AND FOOD).
Deposit is fully refundable if canceled 30 days before the start of the tour, in the event of a government pandemic travel restriction, this 30- day rule will be waived.
Any amount paid in excess of the deposit is fully refundable at any time.
All cancellations must be made by a formal email request.
Your Guides for this Workshop
Edwin Martinez
Travel and Nature Photographer
When one speaks of travel and landscape photography at its apex, his name quickly comes to mind. Well known locally and gaining recognition abroad for his ethereal landscape images, his works exemplify landscape photography as a fine art.
A former medical and corporate professional, Edwin has found his niche and true calling in landscape photography. Still imbibed with the commitment and dedication for always achieving his best, these qualities are now his staples, whether he is shooting for clients or himself, mentoring photographers that join him in the tours that he guides in Iceland, Norway, Canada, the American west and other parts of the world or teaching in workshops under Wide Horizon Photo Adventure.
Edwin’s excellence has been recognized by brands that support his projects. By virtue of his acknowledged skill and influence, he has been tapped to field test and help in the launch of a number of new photography gear. His works have graced both local and overseas publications and websites. Edwin’s images surely speak the language that draws attention and leaves an indelible mark of excellence.
Noel Casaje
Travel and Nature Photographer
Noel Casaje is an award-winning landscape photographer who considers himself an avid student of light and its interaction with the natural world. He has a passion for capturing images that resonate with him and scenes that evoke emotions in viewers. His expertise lies in working in low light, where he explores the nuances it creates, transforming scenes from the real to the surreal.
Noel and his photographs have gained recognition in various media outlets. Forbes.com has included him in its list of Top 5 Travel Photographers to Watch Out For. Through his company, Wide Horizon Visuals, he continues to organize exclusive photo tours to some of the world's most unforgettable destinations.
Noel has led groups to explore Patagonia, Lofoten, the Canadian Rockies, Costa Rica, the Italian Dolomites, and nearly all the major American National Parks. He aspires to persist in leading these tours and discovering more exciting destinations in the future.
Recommended Gear
Expected Conditions
In autumn, the temperature can drop to 0 C without windchill.
Warm Hat
Gloves or Mittens
Base Layers
Down Jacket
Outer Shell
Waterproof Outer
Balaclava
Shorts
Sun Hat
Sunglasses
Sun Block
Hiking Pants
Hiking Boots
Face Covering for Sand
Camera
Full frame or mirrorless system
Lenses
Ultra Wide (i.e 16-35 f2.8)
Mid Telephoto (i.e. 24-70 f2.8)
Telephoto (i.e. 70-200+ f2.8)
Macro (if shooting close-ups)
Extreme Telephoto
(if shooting wildlife) consider an f4 due to weight
Recommended Filters
ND 6
ND 10
Circular Poloarizer
Graduated ND 3 stop - soft and hard
3 stop reverse graduated
Tripod
Preferably carbon fiber for light travel
Laptop
For processing and classroom work