Whether you are a seasoned pro at taking pictures or looking for a unique shot for your Instagram, Lake Powell is home to a variety of beautiful photography locations. Pack your DSLR, smartphone, or the camera of your choice to shoot with and start planning your trip to Lake Powell today. Enjoy warm weather, beautiful blue water, and stunning rock formations for the subjects of your Lake Powell photography.
Antelope Canyon
Located near Page, Arizona, Antelope Canyon is a stunning slot canyon unlike anything you have ever seen. The smooth red rock walls, carved by time and erosion appear as flowing shapes that catch beams of light at just the right angles. Antelope Canyon makes for a great photography subject, but will require careful planning.
First, in order to experience Antelope Canyon, you must be a part of a guided tour with an expert who can help you enjoy the canyon while preserving its beauty and respecting its spiritual importance to the Navajo tribe. Your guide transports you over a sandy riverbed to enter the canyon itself. Once you enter the sandstone walls you will be greeted by large amounts of sand, which can be harmful to your camera. Be wary of changing lenses and leaving your fragile camera vulnerable to the grains of sand inside the canyon.
The beams of light that shine into the canyon during 10am and 1pm tend to be most popular among photographers. Antelope Canyon provides a variety of angles at which to photograph it including the walls and the cracks of sky seen through the top of the canyon. Some photography ideas include the texture and shape of the smooth walls, falling sand from the sides of the canyon, and narrow beams of light shining into the tight canyon. During the off-season winter months, tour prices are more affordable and the crowds in the canyon are much smaller.
Horseshoe Bend
Next, this well known section of the Colorado River is a part of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area in Page, Arizona. A gentle 1.5 mile hike will take you to an overlook of this phenomenal view of the Colorado River’s path through carved out sandstone. The sharply curved sandstone riverbed has become an extremely popular photo location and can be quite crowded. It now costs $10 per vehicle to visit the overlook. The lighting at sunrise and sunset will elevate your Horseshoe Bend photography to another level. Be sure to capture many different perspectives of this magnificent 270 degree bend in the river over the rim of the overlook.
Rainbow Bridge
The tallest natural bridge in the world, Rainbow Bridge is located on the edge of Lake Powell. Nearly 300 feet tall, this massive arch provides a breathtaking view and subject for your photography. Rainbow Bridge can be reached by boat or by backpacking in. Private and tour boats alike can take you to a short term docking area where visitors may be dropped off. Once you arrive at this dock, there is a short hike to the monument. Alternatively, backpacking permits can be obtained from the Navajo Nation to take a 14 mile trail into the area. Looking for a unique alternative to classic Rainbow Bridge photography? Rainbow Bridge is a Dark Sky Sanctuary and over 15,000 stars can be viewed at night. Try capturing the stone arch under the gorgeous night sky!
Glen Canyon
Finally, the Glen Canyon area is home to all of the above monuments as well as the majority of Lake Powell. There is a variety of picturesque views to be found within its colorful canyon walls. Capture the red, orange, white, and every color in between rocks or the curving and weaving walls of the canyon. The various marinas in the area provide opportunities to photograph boats and other water-crafts. The unique winding nature of the canyon makes for a phenomenal Lake Powell photography opportunity.
Lake Powell Photography Tips
- Many areas in Lake Powell are out of reception and close range of services like food, first aid, and other forms of assistance. When taking day trips, be prepared with everything you will need for the entire day.
- Some of the above locations require the assistance of a guide. Plan ahead for your trip to ensure that you can get the necessary permits and reservations you will need.
- Recommended photography supplies include your camera of choice, a tripod, a wide angle lens, and protective gear for your camera (lens cap, padded bag, etc.). Even if your camera of choice is a smart phone, you will be able to take expert photos in the Lake Powell area.
Find comfortable and enjoyable lodging while enjoying a stay in the outdoors under the beautiful night sky at Wander Camp Lake Powell. Fresh linens, bathrooms with running water, and an adventure concierge portal will elevate your camping trip in Lake Powell this season. Book your stay today!
Post written by Maggie Jackson