INTO GREAT SALT LAKE WE GO
Dates: May 3rd – 7th, 2026
Instructor: Amy Ames
Cost: $3000
Deposit: $1000
Into Great Salt Lake We Go
Join us for an unforgettable women’s photography workshop led by photographer Amy Ames, set against the breathtaking landscapes of the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island. This unique experience combines expansive vistas, abundant wildlife, and the peaceful, almost otherworldly beauty of one of North America’s most iconic natural wonders.
Located in Utah, the Great Salt Lake offers endless photographic opportunities—from vast reflective waters and surreal salt flats to golden-hour sunsets that light up the sky. Antelope Island, the lake’s largest island, is a dream for photographers with its rugged terrain, sweeping views, and incredible wildlife, including bison, pronghorn, and a wide variety of bird species.
Throughout the workshop, Amy will guide you through this dramatic landscape at the best times of day—sunrise and sunset—while teaching techniques for capturing light, wildlife, and composition. Midday hours will include editing sessions, personalized feedback, and creative growth through hands-on instruction and community connection.
Whether you’re looking to refine your skills or simply connect with a like-minded group of women photographers, this workshop is designed to inspire and challenge you in all the best ways.
What will I learn?
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How to photograph wildlife like bison, pronghorn, and birds in natural light
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Techniques for capturing dramatic landscapes and reflective water scenes
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Best practices for shooting during golden hour (sunrise and sunset)
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Compositional strategies for vast, open environments
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How to work with changing light and weather conditions in the field
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Post-processing and editing tips to bring out the beauty of your images
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How to tell a stronger story through your photography
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Personalized feedback to help refine your style and vision
What wildlife may I see?
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American Avocet
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Bison
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Burrowing Owls
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Great Horned Owls
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Pronghorn
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Black-necked Stilt
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Coyote
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Porcupines
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Western Meadowlarks
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Long-billed Curlews
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Eared and Western Grebes
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California Gulls (Utah’s state bird!)
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Red-winged Blackbirds
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Northern Harriers
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Mule Deer
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Jackrabbits
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Shorebirds & waterfowl
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Songbirds
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So much more!
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival + Welcome Dinner
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Arrive and check in to accommodations
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Settle in and meet your fellow photographers
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Group welcome dinner + workshop orientation
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Meet your instructor
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Review the schedule and photography goals
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Q&A and introductions
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Days 2–4: Field Days – Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, and Bear River Bird Refuge
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Sunrise and sunset photo sessions at iconic locations like Antelope Island, Great Salt Lake, and Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge
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Midday breaks and editing sessions with guidance on Lightroom/Photoshop
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Opportunities to photograph landscapes & wildlife
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If overcast, extended shooting throughout the day to take advantage of soft light
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Optional group dinners and image reviews in the evenings
Day 5: Departure
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No scheduled outings
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Check-out by 11:00 AM
What is Included in the price?
What’s Included:
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4 nights lodging near Antelope Island (private rooms)
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On-location photography instruction with Amy Ames, including guided sunrise and sunset shoots
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Wildlife and landscape photography techniques tailored to the unique features of the Great Salt Lake region
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Admission to parks
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First night group dinner
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Hands-on editing sessions and personalized feedback to help you refine your images
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Pre-trip planning guide to help you prepare your gear and expectations
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Private Facebook group to connect with fellow attendees before and after the workshop
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Welcome gift with a few fun and useful items for your time in the field
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Supportive, women-only environment focused on creativity, growth, and connection
What is not included in the price?
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Airfare
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Transportation – we will carpool during the trip. Students may also use the Facebook group to organize ride shares.
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Meals, with the exception of the welcome meal
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Gratuity for your instructor (optional)
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Trip Insurance (highly recommend getting)
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Lodging before or after the workshop if you choose to arrive early or stay late
How Do I Get there?
Nearest Airport:
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) – About 30 minutes south of the hotel
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Major airport with many direct flights
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Rental cars
Workshop Hotel:
Courtyard by Marriott – Layton, Utah
📍 1803 Woodland Park Drive, Layton, UT 84041
Lodging
Courtyard by Marriott, Layton, UT
Nestled just off I‑15 east of Salt Lake City, the Courtyard by Marriott, Layton offers comfort, convenience, and community for our workshop weekend. Featuring spacious guest rooms, an indoor pool and fitness center, a welcoming Bistro that serves hot breakfast and evening small bites, and complimentary on-site parking, it’s the perfect hub for early-morning departures and evening editing sessions. With local restaurants and shops right around the corner, everything you need is within easy reach—giving you more time to focus on creativity, connection, and capturing the beauty of the Great Salt Lake region.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions.
What gear do I need?
When you book the trip a PDF will be sent with our recommended gear.
What is your cancellation policy?
You can view all my Terms and Conditions here: https://intothewildwego.photography/terms-and-conditions/
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
AMY AMES
Amy is a wildlife, landscape, and adventure photographer based in Pittsboro, North Carolina—though she’s rarely home for long. Always eager to explore, she’s most often found in remote, mountainous places with a Diet Coke in hand. When not on the road, she’s a mom to two boys and the dedicated dog walker to a particularly high-maintenance chocolate lab.
My photography comes from a love of wild places and a desire to share their beauty with others. Through my images, I hope to encourage people to appreciate and protect the incredible ecosystems that make up our planet. I love inviting others along for the ride—to explore, to connect, and to help make sure these places stick around for future generations. I also lead photography workshops and teach an online wildlife course through Women’s Photography Circle.
Find Amy on Instagram Here: https://www.instagram.com/pointamesandshoot/
