@scottjonphotography
U.S.A Utah Badlands by Drone [EOI STAGE]
April 2027 – Exact Dates TBA
Co-led by Scott Jon and Kane Engelbert (local expert and aerial photographer extraordinaire)
Discover the Desert Southwest from Above
Join us for an unforgettable aerial photography adventure through the surreal Utah Badlands, a landscape shaped by time, colour, and erosion into one of the most visually striking regions on Earth. From towering buttes and winding canyons to ancient sedimentary layers that glow in soft pastels and deep reds, this is nature’s abstract canvas revealed from the sky.
Across six immersive days, you’ll capture these extraordinary formations by drone alongside two experienced aerial photographers. Together we’ll explore remote off-road canyons, hidden desert ridges, and vast open plains that few ever witness. It’s a journey of creative discovery through some of the most photogenic and rarely photographed terrain in the American Southwest.
The Experience
Our focus is on getting you deep into the landscape to experience it in its purest form. Kane has spent countless hours flying over these badlands, exploring their forms, textures, and ever-changing light, and knows this region like no one else. His experience in the air across the American Southwest is unmatched and his knowledge of the area ensures we’ll be in the right places at the right times to capture the most dramatic aerial perspectives.
Each day blends hands-on flying, creative instruction, and post-production development. You’ll learn to compose powerful aerial scenes, work with light and shadow, and refine your imagery with professional editing techniques. This workshop is about more than just flying a drone. It’s about seeing, creating, and transforming the way you interpret the landscape.
Accommodation and Travel
The adventure begins in Goblin Valley State Park, where we’ll spend three nights camping among sculpted formations under a sky full of stars. From there, we’ll travel to Hanksville for the final nights of the workshop, staying in comfortable single-occupancy cabins surrounded by wide desert views.
All tents and camp meals are provided during our stay in Goblin Valley. Participants will need to bring a sleeping bag and camping pillow. Lodging in Hanksville includes private rooms and all bedding.
The nearest airports are Salt Lake City (SLC) and Grand Junction (GJT). Both are easy drives to Goblin Valley, with arrival planned by mid-afternoon on the first day. The workshop concludes with accommodation included on the final evening, allowing departure the following day.
What to Expect
Expect early mornings, late evenings, and a full creative immersion into one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. You’ll learn how to approach drone photography as an art form, focusing on composition, light, storytelling, and editing. Each day we’ll explore, shoot, and return to base for image review and post-production in Lightroom and Photoshop.
Whether your goal is to create fine-art abstracts or cinematic landscapes, you’ll come away with a strong body of work and the skills to elevate your aerial photography to the next level.
Recommended Gear
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Drone with extra batteries and ND filters
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DSLR or mirrorless camera with lenses from 14mm to 400mm
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Sturdy tripod
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Laptop with Lightroom and Photoshop
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Memory cards, cleaning tools, and filters
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Warm layers, gloves, sunglasses, hat, and notebook
What’s Included
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3 nights camping (tents provided)
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3 nights hotel (single occupancy)
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Ground transport during the workshop
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Field instruction, editing sessions, and drone guidance
Not Included: Airfare, rental car, travel insurance, or camera equipment.
Who This Workshop Is For
This workshop is designed for photographers who want to deepen their connection to aerial storytelling and expand their creative process. Whether you’re an experienced flyer or just getting comfortable behind the controls, this is an incredible opportunity to explore some of the world’s most dramatic desert formations with two passionate guides.
Your Instructors
Scott Jon McCook
Australian aerial and fine-art photographer known for transforming natural and industrial landscapes into painterly abstractions. With more than a decade of experience shooting from aircraft and drones, Scott brings a cinematic perspective and technical expertise to every session. His focus is helping photographers develop their own creative voice and find beauty in unexpected places.
Kane Engelbert
Based in Colorado, Kane has spent years exploring and photographing the desert southwest both on the ground and from the air. With more hours flying over the Utah Badlands than probably anyone else, his knowledge of these landscapes is unrivalled. Kane’s dedication to revealing the patterns, light, and textures of the desert has made him one of the most respected drone photographers in the region. His passion for teaching and deep connection to the land make him an invaluable guide for this unique adventure.
