antelopecanyon

My Last Visit to Antelope Canyon: Why I Agree with the Photo Tour Ban

Just over a week ago I saw some big news reported by PetaPixel: Antelope Canyon would be ending photographer-only tours. These tours were long favored by photographers because, well, Antelope Canyon is a pretty tough shooting environment and a tripod made cleaner shots and bracketing possible.

What It’s REALLY Like Taking Pictures at Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon had been on the top of my “must-photograph” list ever since I saw the first picture of a sunbeam penetrating the curvy, orange walls of the Arizona natural wonder. This unique beauty captivates most photographers in love of landscape photography.

Why Photos of Arizona’s Famous Antelope Canyon All Look the Same

So what is it really like to shoot The Antelope?

The slot canyons of Page, Arizona are on Navajo lands. By law, only native Navajo can conduct business on the property. This has resulted in a number of resident outfitters running operations to visit the twisty, narrow, photogenic canyons. It is strictly controlled by the Navajo Parks and Recreation Department, which serves to protect the area from overuse and preserve its history.

Copy or Inspiration? A $6.5 Million Photo of Antelope Canyon and Mine

About a year ago, photographer Peter Lik announced that he sold a print of Antelope Canyon for $6.5 million to a private investor. There has been no independent confirmation of this transaction. Many in the photography community thinks that it might be a PR stunt.

So when I had the chance to visit the slot canyons of Page Arizona, I had in mind Peter Lik's image of "The Phantom," an ethereal black and white taken in Upper Antelope Canyon. Armed with a tripod, fast, wide lens and a sand-throwing guide, I attempted to make a similar photo.

Photog Denied Park Permit Because His Mirrorless Camera Lacks a Mirror

There was once a time when you could more easily spot a professional photographer simply by glancing at the camera equipment in a person's hands. Was it a beast of a camera with a gigantic lens attached to it? You're looking at a serious shooter. Is it a dinky pea shooter that is used with arms outstretched? The person is a tourist, newbie, or both.