ALAN STENBACK PHOTOGRAPHY

ALAN STENBACK PHOTOGRAPHY

BRISTLECONE PINES NIGHT SKY PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP

Milky Way Over Ancient Bristlecone Pines At 11,000 Feet

Photograph 2,000-year-old bristlecone pines beneath Coloradoโ€™s darkest alpine skies.

Step into one of the most surreal high-elevation landscapes in the Rockies and learn to confidently capture the Milky Way among ancient trees shaped by centuries of wind and weather.

This hands-on night sky photography workshop is built for photographers who want real instruction in the field. Whether youโ€™re brand new to astrophotography or refining your technique, this experience is designed to move you forward.

2026 Workshop Datesย ยท Fairplay, Colorado

Sat, Jun 20 2026 (3 Spots Open)

Sat, Jul 11 2026 (Just Announced!)

Sat, Aug 15 2026 (Just Announced!)

Small Group ยท Limited to 5 Participants ยท $375

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Silhouette of pine trees under a vibrant Milky Way galaxy, starry night sky.

COLORADO 3-NIGHT ASTROPHOTOGRAPHY RETREAT

Three-Night Immersive Astrophotography Retreat in the Colorado Rocky Mountains

Spend three nights under Coloradoโ€™s dark mountain skies learning how to photograph the Milky Way and deep space in a small-group, immersive setting. Through hands-on field instruction and guided editing sessions, youโ€™ll gain the skills and confidence to capture and process stunning night sky images.

Only a limited number of spots are available to maintain a true small-group experience.

Small Groups โ€ข Dark Skies โ€ข Hands-On Instruction

July 16โ€“19, 2026 โ€ข Thursdayโ€“Sunday (3 Spots Open)

Fairplay, Colorado โ€ข Accommodations Includedย โ€ข $500 Deposit

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New Mexico Night Sky Photography Workshops 2026

Milky Way Photography in Bisti Badlands & Valles Caldera

Workshop Locations

Bisti Badlands โ€“ September 12, 2026

Valles Caldera โ€“ TBD, Sept/Oct, 2026

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Puerto Rico Photography Workshop & Retreat

Join us for an unforgettable journey along the West Coast of Puerto Rico, exploring the captivating western landscapes from North to South.

Gain new skills to capture the panoramic cliffs of Cabo Rojo, discover the sea stacks of Isabelaโ€™s coastline, photograph sought-after lighthouses, colorful murals and more.

This immersive photography workshop offers a unique blend of creative discovery and natural beauty for both experienced and aspiring photographers.

Led by the passionate team behind Alan Stenback Photography, youโ€™ll get hands-on photography instruction and meticulously crafted experiences to fill you with inspiration.

Whether youโ€™re looking to sharpen your skills or simply explore Puerto Rico’s less-traveled side, this workshop is designed for you.

May 25 โ€“ June 1, 2026. Now accepting reservations (limited availability)

Small group ยท Hands-on instruction ยท No rushing

 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who are these night sky workshops for?

These experiences are built for beginner to intermediate photographers who want hands-on guidance in the field. If you can use manual mode (or want to learn it fast), youโ€™ll do great.

Do I need astrophotography experience?

Nope. Weโ€™ll cover a simple, repeatable workflow for focus, exposure, composition, and troubleshooting in the dark. If youโ€™re experienced, youโ€™ll still level up with field coaching and cleaner technique.

What camera gear do I need?

Any modern DSLR or mirrorless camera works. Youโ€™ll want a wide-angle lens (ideally 14โ€“24mm), f/2.8 or faster if possible, plus a sturdy tripod. A headlamp with a red light mode and a remote shutter (or camera app) are strongly recommended.

What are the recommended baseline settings?

A good starting point is: wide angle (14โ€“24mm), f/2.0โ€“f/2.8, ISO 3200โ€“6400, 10โ€“20 seconds. Weโ€™ll dial this in on-site based on your lens, camera, and the conditions.

Will we photograph the Milky Way at every workshop?

We schedule around the Milky Way season and dark skies, but visibility depends on weather, haze, smoke, and sky conditions. If skies are clear, weโ€™ll prioritize Milky Way shooting time.

Where do we meet, and will the exact location be shared publicly?

Meet-up details are provided after registration. Some locations are kept private to protect sensitive landscapes and to keep the experience quiet and focused.

How physically demanding is it?

Most locations are beginner-friendly, but you should be comfortable walking on uneven terrain in low light. Colorado workshops are at high elevation (often 10,000โ€“11,000+ ft), so pacing and hydration matter.

What should I bring besides camera gear?

Warm layers (it gets cold fast after sunset), gloves, a hat, sturdy shoes/boots, water, snacks, and any personal meds you may need. A small camp chair can be nice during instruction breaks.

What happens if the forecast is cloudy or the weather changes?

If conditions are safe but the sky isnโ€™t ideal, the workshop still runs with sunset technique, night setup, and in-field instruction. If severe weather makes it unsafe (lightning, heavy rain, extreme wind), we may reschedule or provide an alternate option as communicated to registered participants.

Is there post-processing instruction?

Yes. Many workshops include a follow-up online session where we walk through editing your night images, step-by-step, so you can finish strong.

How many people are in each workshop?

Group sizes are intentionally small so you get real help (not โ€œlisten to a lecture and hopeโ€). Exact caps vary by date, but the goal is always hands-on support.

Does the 3-night Colorado retreat include lodging?

Yesโ€”accommodations are included for the Colorado 3-night retreat. Full lodging details, itinerary flow, and whatโ€™s included will be shared on the retreat page as details are finalized.

Do you provide transportation or meals?

Transportation to the area is not included. For single-night workshops, we typically meet at a central location and caravan. Meals are not provided unless explicitly stated on a retreat pageโ€”plan to bring your own snacks and water.

What is your cancellation / transfer policy?

Payments are generally non-refundable. If you canโ€™t attend your original date, reach out as soon as possible and weโ€™ll do our best to offer a transfer option when space allows (policy details may vary by event type and are always confirmed at checkout).

Can I bring a friend or spouse who isnโ€™t photographing?

Because these are small, instruction-based experiences (and weโ€™re moving around in the dark), attendance is usually limited to registered participants. If you have a special situation, email us and weโ€™ll tell you whatโ€™s possible for that specific event.

Is it safe to be out shooting at night?

Safety is a priority. We keep groups small, review night-safety basics, and choose locations intentionally. Youโ€™re responsible for your own footing and awareness, but you wonโ€™t be out there alone.