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2027 The Winter Magic of Bryce Canyon: A Photographer's Dreamscape

February 5 - 9, 2027

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
2027 The Winter Magic of Bryce Canyon Photo Workshop Feb 5 - 9

Matt Suess is an Authorized Permittee of Bryce Canyon National Park

2027 The Winter Magic of Bryce Canyon Photo Workshop Feb 5 - 9

Reviews!

2027 The Winter Magic of Bryce Canyon Photo Workshop Feb 5 - 9

February 5 - 9, 2027

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

$2,997 
Includes Private Single Room Lodging.
Transportation not included.

Only $1,000 Due Today! 
(Only if registering before October 5. Otherwise if registering after October 5, payment is due in full).

** Only choose the Deposit Only Due Today payment option when registering. I'll remind you about final payment prior to October 5. **

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$1,035.00

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Workshop registration is first-come first-serve.

All attendees will be required to sign my workshop registration form here.

Questions about this photo workshop?

Simply fill out the form below. Be sure to let me know which photo workshop you are asking questions about!

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GROUP DETAILS:

Open to any skill level from beginner to professional. Exclusively limited to just 7 photographers!

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Each workshop client needs to be in decent physical condition. Most locations are just a few steps away from where we park but there could be some snow and ice with walks up to a couple miles.

YOUR INSTRUCTOR & GUIDE

Matt Suess will be your photo instructor and guide during this workshop. 

LOCATION:

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
View Map ->
The closest airports are:

St. George, Utah
Las Vegas, NV
Salt Lake City, UT
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2027 The Winter Magic of Bryce Canyon: A Photographer's Dreamscape

With Matt Suess

Workshop Overview

Step into a surreal world sculpted by time and transformed by snow. 

 

Bryce Canyon in winter is like nowhere else on Earth — a high-elevation desert cathedral of red rock hoodoos, naturally carved amphitheaters, and towering spires dusted in white. In February, the crowds vanish, the air is crisp and clear, and the low sun casts long, dramatic shadows that elevate every composition. This is your chance to experience and photograph Bryce Canyon in its most magical and mysterious state.

 

Over the course of 5 days and 4 nights, you'll explore the canyon at sunrise and sunset when the light sets Bryce’s red rock formations ablaze in golds, oranges, and pinks. The snow adds striking contrast and dimension, turning already-stunning scenes into once-in-a-lifetime images. February offers a rare mix of vibrant winter skies and peaceful silence — the kind of solitude photographers dream about.

 

NIGHT SKY PHOTOGRAPHY TOO!

As this workshop takes place during the new moon, we will spend some time photogrpahing the night sky as well on clear nights!

This workshop isn’t about checking locations off a list. It’s about slowing down, tuning into the landscape, and creating meaningful, intentional images. You’ll be guided to the best compositions at the best times, with ample one-on-one instruction and creative support. Whether you're shooting wide for grand vistas or zooming in to capture icy details on hoodoos, each day will be rich with photographic opportunity.

 

One or two nights we will head out for a few hours of night photography, as we venture out beneath Bryce’s famously dark skies to capture stars above snow-covered formations. With luck, we may even photograph the winter Milky Way as it begins to rise early in the season. Standing beneath the stars, in the silence of winter, is an unforgettable experience - and photographing it is something truly special.

 

During the day, when the light isn't perfect for grand vistas, we will head into the forests for details and abstracts. We will also spend some time together post processing our images in the warmth of our hotel, and I'll be there to show you some great techniques to make your photos come alive.

This exclusive workshop is limited to just 7 photographers to ensure a highly personalized experience. You won’t be lost in a crowd — you’ll be part of a small group of passionate image-makers, each getting individual guidance tailored to your skill level and creative goals. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or an ambitious hobbyist, you'll leave with new skills, fresh inspiration, and a collection of powerful images.

 

We’ve taken care of the logistics so you can focus entirely on the experience. Single-occupancy lodging is included, offering you a private space to rest, recharge, and review your images. 

NOTE: Ground transportation is not included during the workshop. We will carpool to locations, but you will need to rent a winter vehicle to drive back and forth from the airport and hotel. I'll also need 2-3 driver volunteers for the carpooling during the workshop.

 

Photographing Bryce Canyon in winter is so rewarding. The cold clears the air for crystal-sharp images. The snow adds depth and contrast. And the quiet opens space for deep creative connection. It's a landscape that demands presence — and gives back tenfold.

 

If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing a place that feels more like a myth than a national park, this is your chance. Bryce in winter is fleeting, quiet, and deeply powerful. And for a handful of photographers, it will be an experience they’ll never forget.
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ITINERARY

At this time of year sunrise is at approx. 7:30am and sunset is at approx. 6:00pm, which gives us approx. 10.5hrs of daylight.

We will be at our locations photographing just before sunrise and ending our day just after sunset.

During mid day when the light isn’t great we will may take a break for a couple hours to recharge batteries & download images. Depending on the light we may also return to the park for more photography after breakfast or lunch. We will also have some informal post-processing sessions on the laptop/iPad along with some photo critiques.

Note that we are ultimately at the mercy of Mother Nature and I will be diligently studying weather forecasts during our time together with the numerous weather resources I always use when planning for the best light.

So our day-to-day schedule is absolutely always subject to change immensely based on the weather on any given day, thus this itinerary is intentionally planned to be extremely loose and variable during our time together.

There have been numerous times on my workshops where we ended up not taking the scheduled mid-day break to instead chase the light. And our efforts were always rewarded with amazing photographs!

So in other words, be prepared for the unexpected.

Day 1: Friday Afternoon, February 5, 2027

We will meet on this day at 3:00pm in the hotel lobby, which is one hour before checkin at 4:00pm. As soon as everyone gets checked in, we will head out for a sunset shoot, then a group dinner following (meals not included).
 

It is highly recommended to arrive at the hotel a day earlier (hotel not included) to make sure you can make our 3:00 meet time and also in case of any potential travel & weather delays. 

Contact me if you are arriving earlier and I'll do my best to get the same room for you for that evening.

Day 2 - 4: Saturday, February 6 - Monday, February 8, 2027

Plan on meeting at approx. 6:30AM before sunrise (sunrise is at approx. 7:30AM). We will photograph sunrise then head back to the hotel in time for breakfast (included). 

Following breakfast and throughout the day, we may take a couple hours break or if the light is good we will go back into the park to photograph. We'll stop in town for lunch, and we will have some post processing sessions too. 


We will end each day following our sunset shoot (sunset is at approx. 6:00pm.) followed by a group dinner. 

On one or two of these nights we will go back into the park for a couple hours of night sky photography.

Day 5: Tuesday Morning, February 9, 2027

Plan on meeting at approx. 6:30AM before sunrise. We will photograph sunrise then head back to the hotel in time for breakfast (included) and to checkout (checkout is at 11:00am). 

WORKSHOP DETAILS

Who Is This Workshop For

This workshop is designed for any skill level, yet a DSLR/Mirrorless or equivalent camera with interchangeable lenses AND a sturdy tripod are required, as well as a basic working knowledge of your camera. Mobile phone photographers only - especially iPhone - are also welcome! 

Most clients who take my workshops are beginners to advanced amateurs and even pros. My workshops are filled with hands-on instruction & demonstrations. I encourage & help find and develop each clients' unique personal style of photography.

Physical Difficulty: SOMEWHAT EASY to MODERATE

Each workshop client needs to be in decent physical condition with the ability to walk on trails up to a couple miles or so. There is likely to be snow and possibly ice too.

What Airport and when to Arrive

Your 3 best bets for airports are:

St. George, UT Regional Airport (SGU) - Approx. 2.5hr drive to Bryce

 

Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas (LAS) - Approx. 4hr drive to Bryce

 

Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) - Approx. 4hr drive to Bryce

Where to Stay

We will be staying at the Best Western Plus Ruby's Inn in Bryce Canyon City. Workshop fees include a private single room for the 4 nights of the workshop in addition to breakfast at the hotel.

More information will be provided following registration.

Car Transportation

During the workshop in Bryce we will be carpooling. I'll need 2-3 driver volunteers.

You will need your own car rental to bring you to/from the airport and the hotel. As it is winter, you need to rent an all-wheel drive or 4WD car for the best safety getting you to and from the hotel and airport.

What Is Included

  • Photo Instruction & Guiding from Matt Suess

  • 4 nights lodging (single occupancy) during the workshop

  • Landscape & Night Sky Photography Instruction

  • Informal Post Processing Sessions using Lightroom

What Is Not Included

  • Any flights

  • Transportation from airport to/from hotel and transportation during the workshop

  • Park Entrance Fees

  • Food (outside breakfast), alcohol, snacks and beverages

  • Personal travel, medical, equipment or trip cancellation insurance

Travel Insurance

It is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED to purchase quality travel insurance. Some companies allow for the purchase of Cancel for Any Reason Coverage that expands the list of reasons for your canceling to include things such as sudden work or family obligation and even a simple change of mind. More information will be provided upon registration.

Traveling With a Spouse/Companion

This workshop has a no tag-along policy. Spouses, family members, friends, etc. who are traveling with you and who haven't registered are unable to partake in any group functions. Workshops are also not a location for pets and as such are not allowed with the exception of guide dogs. If a spouse or friend wants to attend workshop activities they will need to register as a regular client.

What to Bring / Weather

A complete list of What to Bring will be provided. This list will mention required and suggested items regarding camera equipment and clothing to keep warm. 

The average high and low temps in February during the workshop are: 38F ave high, 17F average low. The average snowfall this time of year is 18" and February is the snowiest month in Bryce.

Cancellation & Refund Policy for This Workshop

We know that plans can change, unforeseen circumstances can happen and no one wants to miss out on the trip of a lifetime. To provide the best customer support possible and to keep groups small and affordable, our cancellation policy ensures we can continue to provide clients the best possible foto experience.

For this workshop the following applies:.

  • The initial $1,000 registration fee is non-refundable, but it is transferable to another workshop provided we are more than 120 days from the start of the workshop (a $350 administrative fee is applied to all transfers).

  • The remaining balance is due 120 days from the start of the workshop.

  • If you cancel within 120 days from the start of the workshop and you are able to find someone to fill your spot, you would be entitled to receive a refund (minus your initial registration fee and a $350 administrative fee). If you are unable to fill your spot, all fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. It is highly suggested to purchase good trip insurance to cover you in such an instance.

If you wish to cancel or transfer to another workshop MORE than 120 Days from the Start: your registration fee will be transferable to another workshop by Matt Suess with a $350 administrative fee.

If you wish to cancel or transfer to another workshop less than 120 Days from the Start: no refunds or transfers (assuming you cannot fill your spot)

You can view my full cancellation & refund policy along with other important information here.

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Matt Suess

Fine Art Photographer and OM SYSTEM, NiSi, Fotopro, Ororo Wear Ambassador

Photography has always been a huge part of my life starting at the age of 12 when I had my own black & white chemical darkroom. That early interest launched a full-time professional photography career that began in 1990 and continues today.

For the first 17 years of my career I was a photojournalist based in New England. I am a digital photography pioneer and began teaching digital photography to photojournalists in the late 90’s, helping bring digital cameras to two different newspapers. I was awarded the 2003 New England Press Associations Photographer of the Year award for my work at the Cape Cod Times. During my time as a photojournalist, I also photographed weddings & portraits, as well as corporate & commercial assignments.

In 2006 I decided to leave all of that behind and move West, where I am now a fine art landscape, nature, wildlife, travel, and Milky Way photographer, educator, and publisher. I also accept select luxury resort & architectural photography assignments.

I teach numerous field & classroom workshops throughout the year as well as online courses and I provide occasional free online webinars. You may have already seen my videos/webinars for OM SYSTEM / Olympus, Hunts Photo & Video, B&H Photo, Skylum and ON1. My passion for sharing and teaching what I have learned during my long career is evident in my down-to-earth and encouraging approach with my clients.

I am honored to be sponsored by Olympus / OM SYSTEM as an OM SYSTEM Ambassador but I teach photography to anyone using any camera brand.

I live in Bozeman, Montana with my blue heeler cattle dog. You can find me online on Instagram and YouTube at @mattsuessphoto
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Poster

Watch the PetaPixel Documentary:
Off the Beaten Path with Photographer Matt Suess

Join OM SYSTEM Ambassador Matt Suess as he embarks on a photography journey to Stanley, Idaho to capture the incredible Sawtooth Mountains. While getting off the beaten path in one of the most photogenic locations in the United States, Suess describes how he uses the powerful features of his OM-5 camera to capture Idaho's incredible sunrises, sunsets, and nightscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions? Send us your question by filling out the form below, we will be happy to assist you.

Thanks for contacting us. We'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Email *

Question *

Is there a lot of walking/hiking during this workshop?

Expect some hikes up to a couple miles or so, on snow and/or ice. Crampons will be required for safety. Also note that Bryce is at 8,000' to 9,000' in elevation.

 

Because this is a winter workshop, one must be prepared to carry their equipment through potentially snowy and icy trails and other locations, so while the hikes may be short of only a few miles, they can be somewhat physical depending on how much snow/ice is out there.

Are there restrictions on participation?

My workshops do not normally entail strenuous activity unless specified. Nevertheless, participants must be able to complete moderate walks/hikes with their required photo gear, sometimes on uneven or slippery surfaces.

 

If you have any health problems or physical limitations, please let me know prior to booking. For this workshop in particular, understand we will be out photographing in cold weather, standing and walking in snow and ice.

I am a pure beginner (or advanced) photographer. Is this workshop for me?

This workshop is open to all photography levels from beginner to pro. I have had clients who didn't know what an f-stop was and I have had those who are just about ready to - or are already - selling their own prints.

 

Being such a small group, I am able to work with each client individually no matter their experience level to help them improve and reach their individual goals.

Will we work on our computers and learn how to process our photos?

Yes, we will have a few informal post-processing sessions where I will give demos and also provide feedback & critique for those who desire it. This will be done on the laptop/iPad using Lightroom.

Can my spouse, relative, friend, pet, etc. attend any or all of the workshop?

This workshop has a no tag-along policy. Spouses, family members, friends, etc. who are traveling with you and who haven’t registered are unable to partake in any group functions.

 

Workshops are also not a location for pets and as such are not allowed with the exception of guide dogs. If a spouse or friend wants to attend they will need to register as a regular client.

Frequently Asked Questions

Regarding My Photo Workshops & Tours in General

What sets your workshops apart from other workshops?

I absolutely love teaching & guiding! I have over 30 years of professional photography experience, am detail orientated, and always put the needs of my clients first.

 

I have a unique photo background with experience creating and selling my work in such diverse fields as photojournalism, sports, portrait, wedding, editorial, and commercial photography.

 

My specialty since 2006 has been fine art landscape, wildlife, night sky & Milky Way, and travel photography. I draw from all of my life experiences to provide you with whatever technical and artistic guidance you need.

 

With my help, you will grow and expand your visual expression as well as your technical skills. In addition, you will have a great time in the process!

Why should I attend one of your workshops?

I will show you how to create inspiring and amazing fine art quality photographs. You will learn how to see more creatively and how to translate that vision into a final image that has emotional impact.

 

I make it easy to learn techniques and concepts that you will take with you every time you walk out the door with your camera. I have extensive experience teaching the concepts of photography, leading photo workshops/tours since 2012.

 

I am a hands-on learner myself and teach using a hands-on approach that will give you the best opportunity to retain information and further your photography skills long after the workshop has concluded.

 

Lastly I love teaching small groups. Most of my workshops feature small sizes with 6 to 12 clients on average. This allows for extremely low teacher to client ratios and provides valuable one-on-one opportunities to work with me and my guides during the workshop.

Can my spouse, relative, friend, pet, etc. attend any or all of the workshop?

Unless specifically mentioned otherwise, I have a no tag-along policy. Spouses, family members, friends, etc. who are traveling with you and who haven’t registered are unable to partake in any group functions. Workshops are also not a location for pets and thus are not allowed with the exception of guide dogs. If a spouse or friend wants to attend they will need to register as a regular client.

Do you photograph during field workshops?

Yes I do on occasion and only when the light is amazing or when I need to photograph certain subjects for later classroom use and field discussion of composition and exposure.

 

When I do photograph along with my clients, the goal is to inspire them to learn to see creative compositions. It can be extremely valuable watching me work a scene.

 

Rest assured however that I am far more concerned that my clients get the shot and I ALWAYS put their needs first.

What level of photography experience do I have to have in order to attend one of your workshops?

It depends upon the workshop, so please check with the specific workshop you are interested in. Most workshops are geared towards beginner to professional abilities.

Do you provide travel insurance for your workshop participants?

I do NOT provide travel insurance as part of my workshop fees, but I definitely recommend clients get it. I highly recommend trip insurance that also includes travel health insurance. I personally use Allianz Travel. The cost for travel insurance is typically 4-7% of the total trip cost, depending upon age and other variable factors.

What’s included in my tuition? Rooms, transportation, meals?

Tuition includes all lectures, fieldwork, guiding, any classroom instruction and critiques of your photos during any classroom sessions.

 

Travel & transportation costs, lodging, entrance fees, and meals are not included in the cost of admission unless otherwise specified.

What should I bring with me to one of your workshops?

You will receive a workshop welcome kit before the start that will contain detailed information regarding the proper gear to bring with you.

What happens in bad weather?

Do not dismiss bad weather, as great photos can be found under some seemingly dreary skies. Many times we will be out in stormy weather, provided it’s not putting you or your equipment at risk.

 

Great pictures can happen during fog, snow, rain and mist.

 

If conditions are too extreme, we will find a location to wait out the weather. During this time, we can work on our images on our laptops while I assist you and give demonstrations.

Do you provide transportation?

I do not supply transportation for my workshops unless otherwise specified. I encourage participants to carpool once the workshop has begun, to minimize our impact on the environment and to facilitate parking. Please come expecting to share your car with others or to jump in and share someone else’s.

What is your cancellation policy?

Each workshop has it's own cancellation policy you can review on each workshop's registration page.

CLIENT REVIEWS/TESTIMONIALS

Harley M.
"I think the way you handled the workshop was as near perfect as any student could ask for."
2019 Fall Grand Teton Photo Workshop Client
Winnie A.
"I really cannot wait for this... figuring out how to make this particular trip happen has been on my mind since I first decided I wanted to get into landscape photography. And I know after working with you this year, I will truly be ready for it!"
2022 Photo Mentorship Client & 2023 Lofoten Aurora Workshop Client

Jill E.

"You have the utmost patience and instead of just telling me to do something, or how to do something, you helped me to think about solutions. Many instructors/leaders have an ego and those individuals are difficult to learn from. You don't. You are a top-notch instructor."
2019 Spring Grand Teton Photo Workshop Client

"Matt is the best instructor I've had for any creative activity, but especially photography. He is patient in explaining things, and really helps you focus on the areas that YOU want to develop rather than focusing on what he thinks you need improvement on.

He also is the only instructor I've had in creative endeavors that is so supportive of you owning your unique style - I've always been one to do things my way, and most instructors struggle with students who don't "do as you're told," but Matt teaches to help you learn rather than trying to get you to do things his way.

Matt also is great about making sure that each person gets heard and gets time for their questions to be answered, which requires facilitation of the discussions in such a way that people aren't talked over but also that people don't feel like they are being shut down...this is not an easy thing to do. Plus, he has a great sense of humor, which is always appreciated!

The Milky Way Workshop felt more about learning some techniques, setting up the shot, then waiting to see if it worked. This was more thinking on your feet and instantly applying things and adjusting (which was likely part of my challenge...my brain wasn't ready).

I would recommend both trips, and have so loved showing people the magic that was captured both times. And it's fun to be able to brag about the great teacher we had each time."

Emily L.

2018 June Tetons Milky Way and 2019 Spring Grand Teton Photo Workshop Client

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Cameras & Photo Gear

OM SYSTEM / Olympus
Cameras & Lenses

I am an Official NiSi Reseller and you can order your NiSi Filters direct from me here.

Get the best iPhone lenses out there - and the ones I always use - from REEFLEX here.

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Topaz Labs makes popular plugins like: Sharpen Al, Denoise Al, Photo Al, and Gigapixel Al.

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Photo Software & Websites

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Systeme is a great platform to sell your courses, digital. downloads, workshops, products, and more and I used it successfully for a few years! Start your free trial here today.

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