Slot Canyons/Sand Dunes

[brettski]

I've been inquiring about going to AZ to take some shots of slot canyons. Due to winter sun I have found out that there won't be any light beams shinning through. I'm not too bothered by that if the canyons themselves have sufficient lighting and color. Looking for advice from anyone who has shot slot canyons/desert this time of year. Wouldn't mind getting some rippled dune shots either. I have some time off and I am lacking these types of shots. Thanks for any info.

[sparker1]

Brett, I've been to a number of slot canyons in AZ and UT, almost always in the winter. I have never seen the distinct beam in Upper Antelope because of going in Feb and Mar. On the other hand, the crowds are less of an issue. You can look at some of my shots to judge for yourself. Just go to my gallery and click on Arizona, then Antelope Canyon and Secret Canyon. In the Utah gallery, click on Southwest, then Slot Canyons. I feel pretty good about my experiences in the slots, and I think you will, too. Of course, those states have lots more to offer than slot canyons.

[Tdragone]

In March there are sun beams in Antelope:
http://www.pbase.com/tdragone/image/75981843

If you go; I recommend going straight to the trailhead and paying for the "photographers tour" which is essentially a ride in and a ride out, and you're left to your own devices in the canyon.

I got my best shots in between the tour groups who are herded through for their 30 minute tours. (I never got a beam when there was a tour group around.. there were just too many people cramming around to see it)

Be prepared with patience.. you have to wait for the gawkers to finish walking around the corners so you can shoot without other people in your shots. The canyon itself isn't really long... but has tons of twists and turns to obscure one group from another.

Bring a good tripod, TONS of cards and bracket EVERYTHING you shoot. Some pix you can get away with only one exposure, some you'll need 2 and some 3 depending on the day. I recommend going into the canyon an hour before the sun is at it's higest. You'll be in and 'established" when potential sun beams happen.