A Photography Workshop with Joseph Rossbach & Eric Bennett
Dates: April 22-26, 2027
Based out of: Hanksville, Utah
Cost: $2,995.00
Availability: Limited to 10 Guests
8 Remaining Spots
The badlands of Utah’s San Rafael Swell are among the most visually captivating landscapes in the American West—and one of my favorite places to photograph anywhere in the world. Sculpted layers of bent earth, rich color palettes, and endlessly intricate patterns create a true playground for creative landscape photography.
From intimate telephoto compositions that isolate abstract forms, to expansive aerial perspectives that reveal the full scale of this surreal terrain, the photographic opportunities here are virtually limitless.
During this five-day workshop, we’ll guide you through some of our favorite locations within the Swell, helping you see beyond the obvious and discover compelling compositions at every scale. Through in-field instruction and creative discussions, we’ll share our approach to light, design, and storytelling—giving you the tools and confidence to develop and express your own unique photographic vision.
Workshop Experience
Our Badlands & Beyond Workshop is designed to fully immerse you in one of the most visually striking landscapes in the Southwest, while maintaining a relaxed, flexible pace that allows for both creativity and recovery.
We’ll begin on the afternoon of May 2 with a meet-and-greet and an opening presentation, where we’ll cover key concepts, logistics, and creative approaches for the days ahead. That evening, we head straight into the field for our first sunset session—an introduction to the dramatic forms, colors, and light that define this region.
Over the next three days, we’ll follow a rhythm built around the best light. Early mornings begin with sunrise sessions in the field, followed by a midday break to rest, recharge, and review images. In the afternoons, we regroup and head back out to photograph through sunset, often chasing evolving weather and light across the landscape.
Because we know this area intimately, we have a deep roster of incredible locations to work with. That said, flexibility is a key part of the experience. We continually adapt our plans based on conditions—positioning ourselves in the best possible locations for compelling light, atmosphere, and composition. Some locations are easily accessed right from the vehicle, while others involve short hikes (typically under 3 miles roundtrip) across relatively gentle terrain to reach more unique perspectives.
The workshop will conclude after a final sunrise session on the morning of May 6, allowing ample time to return, pack up, and depart.
Transportation is self-driven, and you’ll need your own vehicle for the workshop. We strongly encourage carpooling when possible—it reduces environmental impact, makes logistics easier in tighter locations, and adds to the shared experience.
This workshop is open to all skill levels. Whether you’re just getting started or have years of experience, we meet you where you are. We’ll cover everything from foundational camera technique and composition to more advanced concepts in visual design and creative interpretation. If you fly a drone, this is an exceptional place to explore aerial perspectives in a wide-open environment—but it’s absolutely not required.
Above all, this workshop is about expanding how you see. The Badlands are a place to slow down, experiment, and push your creative boundaries—and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
What's Included:
- Instruction from Eric Bennett & Joseph Rossbach
- Location Guiding within the area
- Image Critique
What's Not Included:
- Drones or Camera Equipment
- Lodging & Meals
- Transportation & Fuel
- Airfare, Visas, & Travel Insurance
LODGING & TRANSPORTATION
While the price of lodging is not included in the workshop, we will help facilitate affordable lodging in Hanksville where we have already blocked out hotel rooms for you. We will reach out with more details after you register. Of course, if you would prefer to camp instead, there are many dispersed camping areas on BLM land within close proximity to where we will be photographing.
Unless you are driving out in your own vehicle, for traveling to Hanksville where the workshop will be based, the nearest airports are Salt Lake City, UT: SLC (3 hour drive) or Grand Junction, CO: GJT (2 hour drive).
REVIEWS
"Can't say enough great things about this trip. Joe and Eric are the consummate photography workshop leaders. Always available to help, encouraging, and prepared. Great variety of locations and a great mix of both close to the road and easy walks. The backcountry add on was spectacular. I give this workshop my highest recommendation." - Matthew Goldsmith
"This photography workshop with Joe and Eric was truly wonderful. They took us to fabulous spots that I would never have been able to get to on my own and they were both excellent educators, who provided lots of good instruction and feedback. This was a great experience and I wouldn't hesitate to take another workshop with these two leaders." - Andrew Mielzynski
"Wonderful trip. Both Joe and Eric knew the terrain and how to get to the best photo locations. The original description of the workshop was spot-on. I would highly recommend it." - Steve A