How2Day: Photography Tours of Cedar Mesa, Utah

Photo tour guides offer one-on-one photo advice, though the traveler must bring his or her own camera. Morey Milbradt/Photodisc/Getty Images
Cedar Mesa in southern Utah is home of some of the most ancient Native American ruins on the continent. The dwellings and rock art have been preserved by isolation atop cliffs and built into the mesas - the area is ripe with photo opportunities. Photographer tours of the area offer the adventure traveler a way to understand the history of a part-nature, part-human made wonder, and explore the terrain while flexing your artistic muscles from behind the lens.

Moab photo tours offers half and full day tours of the area. But the gem for a true adventure traveler is his week-long photo workshop and tour of Cedar Mesa in September. The trip includes three days in Navajo region Monument Valley in addition to other destinations. Landscape photographer Tom Till doubles as a history buff and expert in ruins and native art. The workshop fee covers instruction, accommodations, a few meals, park entrance fees and transportation.

For the real photo enthusiast, WorldView guides offer small, intimate photo tours, keeping their guest list down to a size of two or three participants. They provide close instruction and critiquing while you photograph in the Cedar Mesa. The instructors will give an overview of techniques and tips with working creatively on the surrounding natural subjects. You can even opt for a Photoshop lesson, and photo instructors also provide information on history and geology of the area.

Photographer Bob Maynard leads custom tours with a five-person maximum through the Cedar Mesa area. His tours offer easy access to the landscape with prepared knowledge of the season and the best time for the right shot with the best lighting. Photoshop is available to tailor shots along the way. Bob provides lodging and transportation as long as you bring the camera.

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