Star Trails Photography

Joshua Tree National Park is world-famous for its dark skies! The park is one of the few places in Southern California where you can see the Milky Way. This workshop covers using a DSLR or mirrorless camera to create star trail images.

• This workshop takes place at Cap Rock in Joshua Tree National Park.

• Photographers of all skill levels are welcome! 

• Entry to Joshua Tree National Park is included in the cost of enrollment.

• Participants must bring their own photography equipment. An equipment list is available after enrollment. The instructor is available to answer equipment questions prior to signing up.

• No meals or equipment are provided.

• Participants are responsible for their own transportation. Carpooling is encouraged.

Activity level: This class is leisurely. It requires less than 1/2 mile of walking with shade, seating, consistent terrain, and little to no elevation gain.

Required items for participants: 

• Closed-toe athletic shoes or hiking boots (no sandals, not even hiking sandals!)

• Digital camera with full manual controls, 30-second exposure capability, 3200–6400 ISO capability

• A wide and fast lens with manual focus ability. An f/2.8 14-24 mm full-frame equivalent

• Sturdy tripod

• Extra batteries and memory cards

• Remote shutter release (optional)

• Appropriate clothing – Winter Clothing! Long pants and hiking shoes (no open-toe

• shoes!)

• Small pack or camera bag – we won’t be walking far, but it’s always handy to have a few items with you

Any other pertinent information: This class will caravan from the visitor center in Joshua Tree to the Cap Rock parking lot inside of Joshua Tree National Park.

Photo credit: Desert Institute/Riley Vallo