Arizona photography : slot canyons

First time visitors to the slot canyons near Lake Powell should be forgiven their initial look of dismay when standing near the parking area of these marvels. There in the sometimes harsh desert light, it is easy to doubt that the vast expanse of sandstone before their eyes could contain so much magic.

Arizona light

Located near Page, Antelope Canyon is the most famous of these slots on the Colorado Plateau. Part of the Navajo Nation, Antelope Canyon is in fact two separate slot canyons, upper and lower. A journey into either will leave one speechless.

Over time, rain and wind erosion have combined to sculpt stunning formations in the sandstone, creating a photographer’s dreamland. From the outside, Upper Antelope Canyon appears as nothing more than a huge crack in a rock wall. Walking inside, photography becomes the name of the game.

Working with a tripod is essential in these slot canyons, as low light conditions will create multiple-second exposures. The quality of light in these slots seems to glow at times, thanks to indirect light bouncing all over the canyon walls.

During the height of summer, visitors to these canyons should be aware of two things. One, indescribable shafts of sunlight hitting the canyon floor near midday. Second, plan on a bit of patience, as there may be throngs of people waiting for that moment. Upper Antelope Canyon is much smaller than the lower canyon, and for this reason, many people will walk right in to snap a few pictures, quickly departing to leave the serious photographer alone in thought.

Rock photography

Be prepared to crane the neck a bit, as many of the shapes and forms of the rock are illuminated from above, helping create a sense of motion as waves and lines are created by highlights and shadows. Remember, when using that digital camera, expose for the highlights.

Lower Antelope Canyon is much longer and narrower than the upper slot, and requires a bit more effort to create great photography. Starting out as a crack in the desert floor, this slot canyon quickly descends down into an intimate setting. Ropes, ladders, and handholds are required use as one works through this playground for cameras.

Frequently one will be working sideways through this narrow slot. This is good, as it forces one to see what is being left behind. Many good images can be created in this manner.