Starry night sky with Milky Way galaxy illuminating silhouetted pine trees.

Colorado 3-Night Night Sky Photography Retreat – Fairplay, Colorado

Three-Night Immersive Astrophotography Retreat in the Colorado Rocky Mountains

Three Nights, Accommodations Included! Details Soon.

Thu-Sun, Jul 16-19 2026 (Fairplay, Colorado)

Alan Stenback Portrait

Meet Your Instructor

Alan Stenback is a passionate photographer, educator, and lifelong explorer of the night sky. With years of experience capturing moonrises, Milky Way arcs, and alpine light across the West, he’s developed a style blending technical precision with creative storytelling. His work has been highlighted by both the Ansel Adams Gallery and Rocky Mountain National Park.

As a contributor to Landscape Photography Magazine, Alan shares insights with a global audience. As co-founder of Roam With Us with his wife Gina, he leads immersive workshops and retreats, offering hands-on guidance. His drone work adds a unique aerial perspective, capturing breathtaking landscapes from new angles. Known for his approachable teaching style, Alan is dedicated to helping you create your best work under the stars.

Location & Directions

Colorado 3-Night Astrophotography Retreat – Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the 3-night retreat different from the single-night workshops?

This is a deeper, immersive experience. Over three nights, we photograph multiple locations, refine technique, review images together, and build advanced skills like stacking, longer exposures, and more intentional compositions.

Are accommodations included?

Yes. Cabin accommodations are included for the full three nights. You’ll stay with the group in a comfortable mountain setting designed to support both rest and creativity.

Is transportation included?

Yes. Local transportation to and from shoot locations during the retreat is included. You are responsible for getting yourself to Fairplay, Colorado for check-in.

Are meals included?

Meals are not fully included. Because we’ll have a cabin, guests are encouraged to bring snacks, simple groceries, or small meal items. We may coordinate optional group dinners in town, and some shared meals may be included depending on final planning details.

What skill level is this retreat best suited for?

This retreat is ideal for beginner to intermediate photographers who want more depth. If you’re comfortable operating in manual mode (or willing to learn quickly), you’ll thrive here.

Will we cover advanced techniques like stacking or tracking?

Yes. With multiple nights in the field, we have time to introduce advanced workflows including image stacking, longer exposures, and more refined post-processing techniques.

What camera gear should I bring?

A DSLR or mirrorless camera, wide-angle lens (14–24mm recommended), fast aperture (f/2.8 or faster if possible), sturdy tripod, extra batteries, and headlamp with red light mode. A star tracker is optional but welcome if you own one.

What happens if the weather doesn’t cooperate?

Because we have multiple nights scheduled, we build flexibility into the itinerary to maximize clear skies. If severe weather creates safety concerns, adjustments will be made accordingly. Safety always comes first.

How physically demanding is the retreat?

Most locations are accessible, but you should be comfortable walking on uneven terrain at high elevation (10,000–11,000+ ft). We move at a thoughtful pace, but altitude awareness is important.

Is there post-processing instruction included?

Yes. The retreat includes guided image review and post-processing instruction so you leave with finished, portfolio-worthy images—not just memory cards full of files.

What is your cancellation policy?

Retreat payments are generally non-refundable due to lodging commitments. If you need to cancel, please reach out as soon as possible to discuss available options.