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Overview

Join Aerial Media for an unforgettable drone-focused photography workshop through the surreal badlands and desert landscapes of Utah. This immersive aerial photography experience is designed for photographers and drone pilots looking to elevate their storytelling, composition, and cinematic flying skills while capturing some of the American Southwest’s most breathtaking scenery.

Daily Itinerary

Day 1 - Oct 17, 2026

Meet at 4PM in Hanksville, Utah for a mandatory introductory session. Next, we head out to photograph the brilliant yellow cottonwood trees against the stark backdrop of the badlands. Soft sunset light illuminates the subtle textures and ridges. We continue shooting through blue hour in this austere and otherworldly landscape.
Criz Quinn

Day 2 - Oct 18, 2026

We wake before sunrise to photograph impressive hoodoos glowing in golden light and practice learn some FPV droning. After breakfast we explore a beautiful slot canyon, searching for soft reflected light and intricate textures. In the evening we hike deeper into the badlands to capture dramatic skies, shifting light, and abstract desert formations.
Criz Quinn

Day 3 - Oct 19, 2026

Another early departure brings us to one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the badlands. We continue photographing the golden cottonwood trees before returning to Hanksville for a midday rest break. In the afternoon we head toward the Capitol Reef to photograph vibrant fall colors and stay out through sunset and blue hour. If skies are clear, we may also photograph the rising and setting moon.
Nate Luebbe

Day 4 - Oct 20, 2026

We head out again at dawn to capture first light illuminating dramatic sections of the badlands. The angled morning light brings out incredible depth and texture in the landscape. During the day we meet for post-processing sessions and image critiques. At sunset we focus on abstract telephoto compositions of the blue hills and layered terrain.
Criz Quinn

Day 5 - Oct 21, 2026

We wake before sunrise for one final session at one of our favorite overlooks. As the sky comes alive with color, we photograph the final moments of this incredible adventure together. We return to Hanksville afterward and say our goodbyes. The workshop concludes by 11AM and participants may plan return travel after that.
Nate Luebbe

More from this expedition

Starting from $2200 per person
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Your Instructors

Autumn Schrock

Autumn Schrock

Lead Instructor

Lead Instructor

Sony Ambassador

FAA Part 107
10+ years
Nate Luebbe

Nate Luebbe

Lead Instructor

Lead Instructor

Sony Ambassador

FAA Part 107
10+ years

What's Included

Included

  • Photography and drone instruction
  • Post-processing critique sessions
  • Group transportation during workshop dates
  • Welcome orientation session

Not Included

  • Hotel accommodations (available for a separate fee)
  • Flights to/from Utah
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not specifically listed
  • Drone rentals and camera gear
  • Tips & gratuities

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Preparation Guide

How to Prepare

Everything you need to pack for this expedition.

Photography Gear 12 Travel Documents 10 Drone & Aerial 10 General Essentials 11

Drone Flying Information

Legal Requirements

Before flying, check local regulations:
- Many countries require drone registration
- National parks often prohibit drone flights
- Some areas require special permits
- Check for no-fly zones near airports and military areas
- Respect privacy and wildlife

Useful resources:
- FAA DroneZone (USA): https://faadronezone.faa.gov/
- EASA Drone Rules (EU): https://www.easa.europa.eu/domains/civil-drones
- CAA Drone Code (UK): https://www.caa.co.uk/drones/

Recommended Maneuvers

Orbit Shot

Circle around a subject at constant altitude and distance. Great for landmarks and buildings.

Reveal Shot

Start close to an object, then pull back and rise to reveal the landscape.

Top-Down / Bird's Eye

Point camera straight down for patterns and abstract compositions.

Tracking Shot

Follow a moving subject (vehicle, boat, person) smoothly.

Dolly Zoom

Move forward while zooming out (or vice versa) for dramatic effect.

Hyperlapse

Time-lapse while drone moves through space. Plan your path carefully.

Tour-Specific Notes

Preparation Tips

Recommended Gear:
- DJI Mavic 4 Pro/DJI Mavic 3 Pro or equivalent
- CPL and ND filters for cinematic motion and sunset conditions
- Multiple drone batteries and chargers
- Telephoto and wide-angle lenses for ground photography
- Landing pads
- Tripod
- Laptop for editing sessions
- Warm layers for cold desert mornings
- Comfortable hiking shoes

Drone tips:
Drone regulations in the Southwest can vary significantly depending on location and land management agencies. We only fly in legal locations and always prioritize safety, responsible flying practices, and respect for the environment. Participants should maintain visual line of sight and fly conservatively in windy desert conditions. This tour is operated under a Commercial Use Authorization permit from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM Utah).

Photography Tools

Plan your shots with precision using these professional photography tools.

Photography Calculators & Tools

Hyperfocal, DoF, ND filter, star trails, timelapse, drone GSD & more