- From above
- Drone
Choose your dates
2027
- 12–18 AprilOpen
3 places left
AUD $7,750 + GST · approx. USD $5,410
Approx., depends on the exchange rate
2028
- Dates to be announcedComing soon
From AUD $7,750 + GST · approx. USD $5,410
Guide price, 2028 pricing confirmed closer to the date
Utah Badlands Aerial Expedition
7 Days | 6 Nights
Hosted by Destination Earth Photography Tours
Led by Scott Jon & Kane Engelbert
A Landscape Unlike Anywhere Else
The Utah Badlands are one of those rare places that genuinely feel like another planet.
Millions of years of erosion have sculpted an extraordinary landscape of towering buttes, winding canyons, razorback ridges and colourful sedimentary formations that stretch as far as the eye can see. From the air, these landscapes transform into an endless collection of abstract shapes, textures and colours unlike anything else I’ve photographed anywhere in the world.
I’m incredibly excited to be leading this adventure alongside my good friend Kane Engelbert. Kane has spent years exploring these remarkable deserts from both the ground and the air, developing an intimate knowledge of the region and continually discovering new locations that most visitors simply never experience.
Over seven incredible days we’ll venture deep into Southern Utah, exploring remote desert landscapes, chasing beautiful light and creating a portfolio of imagery from one of the world’s greatest aerial photography destinations.
Whether you’re passionate about drone photography, landscape photography or simply love exploring remarkable places, this workshop is designed to immerse you in one of the most visually spectacular regions on Earth.
Why This Workshop?
For many years my workshops have focused almost exclusively on Australia and New Zealand, exploring the incredible aerial landscapes we have right here at home.
Every now and then though, an opportunity comes along that’s simply too good not to share.
When Kane invited me to lead this expedition with him through the Utah Badlands, a landscape he knows better than almost anyone, I didn’t hesitate. These Badlands are genuinely among the finest aerial photography locations I’ve ever experienced, and after spending time exploring them myself, I knew it was somewhere I wanted to return to with a small group of photographers.
Partnering with Destination Earth Photography Tours allows us to combine Kane’s exceptional local knowledge with my passion for aerial photography, creating an experience that I genuinely believe is unlike anything else available.
I’m incredibly excited to share this remarkable part of the world with you and can’t wait to explore it together. 👊
Why Utah?
I’ve photographed aerial landscapes across Australia, New Zealand and many other parts of the world, yet Utah continues to stand apart.
The scale is almost impossible to appreciate until you’re standing amongst it. Layer upon layer of ancient geology creates an endless playground for aerial photography, where every sunrise and sunset transforms the landscape into something completely different.
From sweeping desert vistas to intimate abstract compositions, Utah offers an incredible diversity of photographic opportunities. Every day reveals new colours, textures and patterns, making it one of the most rewarding places I’ve ever photographed from the air.
A Partnership Built on Experience
One of the things that makes this workshop so unique is the combination of local knowledge and aerial photography experience.
Kane contributes years of exploring Utah’s backcountry, an incredible understanding of the region and access to locations that have taken years to discover and refine.
I’ll be sharing the aerial photography techniques, creative vision and editing workflow I’ve developed over more than a decade photographing landscapes from above across Australia and around the world.
Together our goal is simple. To help you create stronger photographs while giving you an unforgettable experience exploring one of the world’s greatest desert landscapes.
With a small group, there’s plenty of opportunity for one on one tuition throughout the week.
What We’ll Photograph
Throughout the expedition we’ll explore an extraordinary variety of subjects including:
• Sculpted badlands and colourful sedimentary formations
• Towering mesas and buttes
• Winding canyons and desert washes
• Ancient geological formations
• Light and shadow across the landscape
• Desert textures and abstract compositions
• Sunrise and sunset aerial photography
• Optional ground photography throughout the journey
No two days are ever the same. The changing weather, light and atmosphere continually transform the landscape, creating endless photographic possibilities.
Accommodation & Travel
Throughout the workshop we’ll be based in comfortable accommodation, providing the perfect place to relax after long but rewarding days in the field.
Each day we’ll head out before sunrise or remain out through sunset to make the most of the incredible desert light. Between locations we’ll travel together through some of Southern Utah’s most spectacular scenery, accessing carefully researched photography locations that showcase the incredible diversity of the region.
Participants are responsible for arranging their own flights to the United States and transport to our designated meeting location prior to the workshop. Full arrival information, recommended airports and meeting details will be provided well in advance by Destination Earth Photography Tours.
Once the workshop begins, all ground transport throughout the expedition is included.
What You’ll Learn
This workshop has been designed for photographers wanting to elevate both their technical ability and creative vision.
Throughout the week we’ll cover:
• Reading landscapes from above
• Finding compelling aerial compositions
• Working with light and shadow
• Understanding colour, texture and visual flow
• Camera settings and exposure
• Drone flight planning and safety
• Creating stronger abstract imagery
• Adobe Lightroom workflow
• Photoshop finishing techniques
• Image critiques and personalised feedback
Whether your goal is creating large fine art prints or simply improving your photography, we’ll help you return home with both stronger images and a deeper understanding of aerial storytelling.
Drone & Camera Equipment
This workshop has been designed around aerial photography.
For the best experience I recommend bringing a DJI Mavic 3 Pro or DJI Mavic 4 Pro, along with multiple batteries, spare propellers, chargers, ND filters and high speed memory cards.
A laptop with Adobe Lightroom Classic is recommended for our editing sessions throughout the week.
Ground cameras are also encouraged, with lenses ranging from wide angle through to telephoto proving useful across a variety of locations.
Physical Requirements
This workshop is suitable for photographers with a reasonable level of fitness.
Most photography locations involve only short walks from our vehicles, however some optional locations require moderate walks over uneven desert terrain.
Participants should be comfortable carrying their photography equipment while walking and should be prepared for early mornings, late evenings and full days immersed in the landscape.
More Than Just A Workshop
You’re not simply booking a photography workshop.
You’re joining Kane and me on an adventure through one of the world’s most remarkable landscapes.
Over the course of the week we’ll share the locations we’ve come to love, the techniques we’ve developed over years of aerial photography and, hopefully, a genuine appreciation for this extraordinary corner of the American Southwest.
Just as importantly, you’ll be travelling with a small group of like minded photographers who share the same passion for exploration, creativity and adventure.
Those friendships often become just as memorable as the photographs themselves.
What’s Included
✔ Seven day aerial photography expedition
✔ Six nights accommodation
✔ Ground transport throughout the workshop
✔ Professional tuition from Scott Jon & Kane Engelbert
✔ Daily image reviews and editing sessions
✔ One on one photographic guidance
✔ Access to carefully researched photography locations
Not Included
• International and domestic flights
• Meals and personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Drone and camera equipment
• Transport to the workshop meeting location
Is This Workshop For You?
If you’ve ever dreamed of photographing one of the world’s great desert landscapes from the air, this workshop is for you.
It’s designed for photographers who love exploration, enjoy working with light and are passionate about creating meaningful images rather than simply collecting locations.
Utah is one of those places that stays with you long after you’ve left. Every valley, canyon and ridgeline reveals something new from above, and sharing that experience alongside a small group of passionate photographers is something Kane and I are genuinely excited about.
I look forward to welcoming you to the Utah desert in April.
Booking Information
This workshop is proudly hosted by Destination Earth Photography Tours, with all bookings, deposits and payments managed directly through their website.
To secure your place, simply visit the Destination Earth booking page using the link below. You’ll find the complete itinerary, pricing and booking information there.
Places are already filling, so if this adventure has been on your bucket list, I’d strongly encourage you to secure your spot as soon as possible to avoid missing out.
If you have any questions about the workshop itself, travelling from Australia, camera gear, drone equipment or simply want to chat about whether this expedition is right for you, please don’t hesitate to send me an email. I’m always happy to help.
I genuinely can’t wait to share this incredible landscape with you and look forward to seeing you in Utah next April.
👊 Scott
Book your place through Destination Earth Photography Tours:
View the Utah workshop on the Destination Earth website
Workshop Snapshot
Dates: see the dates above
Duration: 7 Days | 6 Nights
Location: Southern Utah, USA
Photography Focus: Aerial Photography, Drone Photography & Desert Landscapes
Experience Level: Beginner to Advanced
Recommended Drone: DJI Mavic 3 Pro or DJI Mavic 4 Pro
Accommodation: Six nights comfortable accommodation
Ground Transport: Included throughout the workshop
Workshop Leaders: Scott Jon & Kane Engelbert
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.
Before you come
What it's really like
Included
- Seven day aerial photography expedition
- Six nights accommodation
- Ground transport throughout the workshop
- Professional tuition from Scott Jon & Kane Engelbert
- Daily image reviews and editing sessions
- One on one photographic guidance
- Access to carefully researched photography locations
Not included
- International and domestic flights
- Meals and personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Drone and camera equipment
- Transport to the workshop meeting location
- Weather: cold mornings and mild to warm days, with big swings in temperature
- Early starts for first light and late finishes for sunset, with a rest in the middle of the day
- Plenty of driving on desert roads and dirt tracks between locations
- Flying from remote pull offs, ridgelines and desert washes
- Some short walks over uneven desert ground to reach launch spots
- Comfortable accommodation, with ground transport included throughout
- Evening image reviews and editing sessions
- Comfortable clothes for the outdoors. Nothing formal needed
- A Mavic 3 Pro or Mavic 4 Pro class drone
- At least four drone batteries, plus chargers and spare propellers
- ND filters, if you use them
- Plenty of memory cards, and a way to back up each night
- A laptop with Lightroom Classic
- Layers for cold mornings and warm afternoons
- Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and a water bottle
- Sturdy shoes for sand and loose rock
- A fixed schedule. We move with the light and the weather
Booking and travel insurance
Bookings, payments and cancellations for this workshop are handled by Destination Earth, under their terms and conditions. See the details on their site.
Travel insurance is essential. Please arrange cover for cancellation, medical and evacuation from remote areas, and ideally your camera gear too. World Nomads covers travellers from over 100 countries, and guests from the US can also compare plans on Squaremouth.
Good to know
Common questions
How does booking work?
Just fill in the enquiry form on the workshop page. I'll get back to you, normally within 24 hours, with the booking details, payment information and terms. Your place is confirmed once your deposit is paid.
Do I need aerial experience?
Not at all. As long as you know your way around your camera, I'll guide you through the rest. Shooting from the air feels a little unusual at first, but most people are comfortable by the end of the first flight.
What happens if the weather grounds a flight?
It's part of aerial photography. I build some flexibility into every itinerary and do everything I can to reschedule flights within the trip. The full details are in the terms and conditions.
How confident do I need to be with my drone?
You'll want to be comfortable taking off and landing from uneven ground and flying in a light breeze. If you're still building confidence, a few practice sessions before the trip make a real difference.
When should I arrive?
I recommend arriving the day before we start. Flights can run late, and it means you'll be fresh on day one. I'll send through the meeting point and time before the trip.
How much luggage can I bring?
Usually one medium sized bag for clothes and a second, smaller bag for your camera gear. Soft bags or a well designed hard case are both fine. We play a bit of suitcase Jenga each day, which is all part of the fun.
Will I have my own room?
Yes. Everyone has their own room on all group and private workshops, unless you'd like to share. The accommodation for each trip is listed on its page.
Are meals included?
Meals aren't included in the price, so everyone pays for their own. On group workshops we usually eat together, which is one of the best parts of the trip, but if you'd like a quiet night to yourself that's completely fine.
Will I have phone coverage?
Most of the places we visit have phone coverage, with the occasional blank spot, usually while we're travelling between locations. From 2027 my expedition vehicles have Starlink on board as well, so staying in touch is easy.
Can my partner come along?
Often, yes. It depends on the trip and the seats in the aircraft, so just mention it when you get in touch and we'll work something out.
What if I'd rather do something private?
If the dates don't suit, or you'd like a trip built entirely around you, I also run private tours for one to three people. Have a look at my availability calendar and get in touch.
What past guests say
I recently attended a lap of Sth island New Zealand photography workshop with Scott McCook. It was the most memorable photography tour I have attended and this was my 4th overseas. It was meticulously planned and when changes had to be made it didnt make a difference to the workshop. The locations and helicoptor were amazing. I commend Scott and Paul on your kindness and friendship. I will be attending more of your workshops.
I participated in Scott’s South Island photography workshop in May 2026, and it was an absolutely outstanding experience. Scott possesses an incredible depth of knowledge across aerial, drone, and ground-based photography. Because the group size is kept small, everyone receives plenty of personalised attention in a highly supportive, non-competitive environment. Beyond his technical expertise, Scott is an all-around fantastic guy who ensures everyone feels welcome. I can’t recommend his workshops highly enough—book a spot and you'll be in expert hands!
I just completed Scott's Wheatbelt Salt Lakes workshop. Scott takes you to incredible locations where you get to capture great images, with so much energy and passion. Scott is willing to help and generously shares his knowledge and skills. Scott, your workshop is fabulous; you are an incredible artist with a desire to help your participants in their photography. You provided me with the best experiences for my drone photography. I would highly recommend Scott's workshops to anyone wanting to capture amazing aerial scenery.
I lead photography workshops for a living, so I don’t give glowing reviews lightly. When I say Scott McCook delivered one of the best workshop experiences I’ve had, that means something. My buddy and I spent 9 days with Scott shooting aerial photography across Australia, and he absolutely delivered. The man knows his locations cold: the right spots, the right light, the right windows. That’s the whole game in aerial work, and he had it dialed. Beyond the craft, Scott is genuinely fun to spend time with. Nine days in the field with someone is a real test of character, and he passed easily. Professional, funny, and completely focused on making sure you walk away with images you’re proud of. One moment stood out above the rest: on my way to Australia, I damaged a lens. Before I even had time to stress about it, Scott had sourced and bought me a replacement. That’s not something you do for a client. That’s something you do when you actually care about the experience someone has on your trip. If aerial photography is on your radar, stop deliberating. Book Scott McCook. You won’t regret it.
I can’t recommend Scott McCook’s aerial photography workshop in Western Australia enough! Especially his Shark Bay workshop. He is exceptionally knowledgeable, dependable, and passionate about his craft. Scott’s humor and friendly attitude made the experience both fun and inspiring. He is truly the very best at what he does, and his expertise shines through in his teaching. Whether exploring the breathtaking Shark Bay, the iconic Hutt Lagoon, or the industrial tailings, Scott’s guidance made capturing stunning aerial images an unforgettable experience. If you're looking to elevate your photography from a new perspective, Scott is the ultimate workshop provider.
Scott is an incredible teacher, artist and human. He went out of his way to make sure we visited incredible locations. I was lucky enough to have a 1:1 adventure with him. Intensely long days, lots of driving and insane locations. Scott is so dedicated to his mission to create a safe, inclusive learning environment, with positivity and energy. We had a blast! From being escorted out of the sky by eagles to jumping up and down with excitement at the latest location. 4 days flew bye. Best experience with a brilliant person.
Had the most incredible time exploring Western Australia with Scott. No one knows this area better than he does. Highly recommend touring with him.
I recently attended Scott’s Aerial Art photography class in Sydney and enjoyed the experience immensely. As an avid aerial photographer, I’m always interested in how other professionals plan their shoots and approach their post-production workflows. Scott provided valuable insights on both fronts. Even as an advanced Photoshop user, I found his guidance—particularly his approach to colour separation—exceptionally useful and immediately applicable to my own work. I highly recommend Scott’s class to anyone looking to deepen their understanding of planning, shooting, and editing aerial photography. It’s an excellent learning experience for photographers looking to advance their skills in aerial photographic art.
I just completed Scott's wheat belt tour. It was amazing despite threatening rain at the start. Scott was flexible and changing plans to accommodate the weather. Scott's focus was solely on the participants to ensure that they got the best photos possible. He was generous with advice on techniques, composition and post production. Most of all Scott was friendly and encouraging, and I would defiantly recommend his tours.
I had the best time at Scott's workshop. I was pretty new to the drone and left feeling a lot more confident in it. He took us to some really cool places, I feel like I got to see a lot of Australia most people usually don't get to. He was very knowledgeable and helpful with everything. I hope to join him again in 2027!
Scott is a fantastic mentor and hoist, he gave valuable feedback and we were treated to a magical drone ride.
Just finished an awesome 7 day group workshop of salt lakes and tailing ponds followed by an incredible 4 day private workshop with guru Scott McCook. This man knows his stuff and got us to the places where we got insanely great images. Thoroughly recommend Scott for outstanding aerial photography experiences.
Utah Badlands by Drone
Questions? Get in touch
Bookings for this workshop are made through Destination Earth. If you have any questions first, just send me a message and I'll get back to you, normally within 24 hours.