Born and raised in Las Vegas, the Valley of Fire is one of my favorite close-by parks to visit. The time I’ve spent in the park can be measured in months over the span of 20 odd years. Although living in Georgia prevents me from getting out there often, I rather be there than in the casinos or other attractions Las Vegas offers.
Seeing that Photoshop World is taking place the week of August 28, 2010, and seeing that some of my favorite mentors, podcasters, and mentors will be in the park, I thought I’d provide some tips that may be unique to this venue. Plus, does anyone really want to say they lost Moose Peterson?
Basic Desert Tips
These really don’t need to be stated, but you’re going to be in the desert in the middle of summer. Even at a slightly higher elevation than the Vegas Valley, it will be hot–Africa hot. Assuming the attendees will be going in an air conditioned coach, prepare for the time outside:
- Hydration - Make sure to have a bottle of water with you. The lack of humidity and walking to a photo op place will start to dehydrate you. Have it available and keep hydrated which will alleviate further affects.
- Sun Protection – Certain portions of VoF have light colored sand and silica (white) rock formations. With the sun up, these reflect light almost as much as water. A good coating of waterproof sunscreen (sweating is the major way you’ll cool off), a hat and sunglasses are essential. The sunglasses also cut the glare enough so you can better see shaded areas of interest.
- Clothing – Desert attire works, and so does shorts and t-shirts. Sturdy shoes help if you intend to climb on some rock formations. Some areas of interest may be up an arroyo, which will be 100% sand like you’d find on a beach. Not a good place for flip-flops or footwear that allow the sand to abrade your feet. Personally for short walks I wear old tennis shoes and dump the sand out before getting back into my vehicle.
- Please take care of the environment – Deserts are fragile by nature, and in the VoF, even more so. If you see a trail, even a game trail, take that instead of bushwhacking across the desert. You’ll see some great examples of weathered sandstone in verticle blades. It’s easy to break these off.
Photo Op Places
Most places in the open portion of the park are best shot during the golden hours. The brightness and high contrast really create different conditions during the day. I’ve create a Google Map with some locations on it. It’s open for all to edit as I’m sure others have their favorite places too.
The majority of my photos are taken on the road beyond the visitor’s center. You get high walled canyons, differing colors and mixes of sandstone, reflection pools (if it’s rained in the past day), cacti and other vegetation. Here’s a link to collection of photos that were taken in the VoF last December.
Shooting Tips
Most of the standard rules apply, but some things I’ve discovered:
- Golden Hours – Due to the way the park lies, you get a consistent increase/decrease in light levels. It’s hard to get good shots before sunrise, although sunset allows for some excellent pictures from the east end of the park or in Rainbow Vista.
- First/Last Light – Best time to get heavy shade with some light exposed rocks
- Full sun days – With no clouds, I spend most of my time in the canyons where I can use shade there to my advantage. More narrow canyons will have a higher variety of weathered rocks.
- Partially cloudy days – When the valley is dappled in clouds (not often), you can get some great photos, especially from higher vantage points.
- Polarizer – Due to the glare, one of the few filters I always bring. Normally the loss of a couple f-stops is nothing with the lights levels out there.
Have Fun
I really wish I could attend Photoshop World this year, but alas, not to be. Enjoy the VoF and all the other events and I’ll “attend” vicariously through Twitter or the blogs.
Take off that lens cap and shoot!
For those going to Red Rock also, here’s some photos taken from the Sandstone Quarry trail.
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