Dreamy Draw Photo Hike

Photography doesn’t need to be technical or fast-paced to be meaningful. This guided photo hike introduces desert landscape and plant photography in a calm, observational way, helping you slow down and create images that feel intentional and expressive. We’ll focus on seeing, composition, and light rather than camera settings or technical overload.

In this relaxed, hands-on experience, we’ll walk together on hiking trails at Dreamy Draw Recreation Area, stopping intentionally to photograph the desert as the afternoon light softens toward early evening. We’ll work with the natural environment, focusing on shape, texture, shadow, and mood, and how small creative choices can dramatically change how a scene feels.

You’ll explore:

• Desert Landscape Composition – Simplifying scenes, working with scale, and using negative space
• Plants & Cactus as Subjects – Photographing desert plants as sculptural forms rather than background elements
• Light & Shadow – Using direction, contrast, and shadow as part of the composition
• Texture & Detail – Finding visual interest without relying on color or dramatic subjects
• Perspective & Movement – Changing how images feel by adjusting position, height, and distance
• Creative Observation – Learning how to slow down and see potential images before raising the camera

This photo hike is intentionally light, creative, and concept-driven. Rather than formal instruction, I’ll share what I’m seeing, offer creative prompts, and be available for questions throughout the hike. All cameras are welcome, including phones. Participants bring whatever gear they already have. Macro lenses are encouraged if you own one, but this is not exclusively a macro-focused event.

By the end of the hike, you’ll have practical experience photographing desert landscapes and plants with more intention, and a better sense of how to approach natural environments creatively rather than technically.

Cost: $15 before the hike begins
Sign Up: https://matteblackcamerarentals.com/phoenix-photography-classes-and-events/

What to Bring:

• Any camera you enjoy using (DSLR, mirrorless, film, or phone)
• Charged battery and memory card
• Sturdy shoes or hiking boots
• Water
• Sun protection
• Curiosity and willingness to experiment

Event begins promptly at 5:00 PM. We recommend arriving a few minutes early to check in, get settled, and start the hike together. The hike will wrap up shortly after sundown.