Nature Photography Workshop in the Tetons

Learn from National Geographic photographers and leading conservation storytellers during Summit’s flagship nature photography workshop. Spend five unforgettable days photographing wildlife, dramatic mountain landscapes, vibrant fall color, and the natural beauty of Grand Teton National Park while receiving personalized instruction, daily image critiques, and one-on-one mentoring.

Where Photography and Nature Come Together

September 27 - October 1, 2026 | September 26-30, 2027

Jackson Hole, WY

Tuition: $3,395 | Deposit: $800

Deposit due upon registration, full tuition due 120 days before the workshop. Workshop limited to 30 participants.

For more than 40 years, Summit Nature has brought photographers together to learn, create, and grow in one of North America’s most inspiring landscapes. Whether you’re building confidence behind the camera or refining your artistic vision, you’ll leave with stronger photographs, new friendships, and skills that will continue to shape your photography long after the workshop ends.

1 Spot Remaining!

September 26 - October 1, 2026

$3,395

Now On Sale!

September 26-30, 2027

$3,395

Why Photograph Grand Teton National Park with Summit?

For more than 40 years, Summit Nature has helped photographers experience Grand Teton National Park in a way few workshops can. Our combination of world-class faculty, hands-on instruction, and small-group mentoring creates an experience that goes far beyond simply visiting iconic locations.

Late September offers some of the park’s best photographic opportunities, from bugling elk and moose to vibrant fall color, dramatic mountain light, and ever-changing weather that creates unforgettable images. But it’s not just about being in the right place—it’s about learning how to make the most of every moment in the field.

Throughout the week, you’ll photograph alongside National Geographic photographers and leading conservation storytellers who provide real-time guidance in the field, daily image critiques, and one-on-one portfolio reviews. You’ll leave with stronger technical skills, greater creative confidence, and a deeper appreciation for both photography and the natural world.

A Complete Photography Experience

Five Days of Hands-On Photography Instruction

Photograph alongside an experienced team of professional photographers during sunrise, sunset, and daytime field sessions throughout the park.

Daily Image Critiques

Receive constructive, personalized feedback on your photographs in a supportive environment designed to help you improve.

One-on-One Portfolio Reviews

Meet individually with faculty to discuss your photography, identify opportunities for growth, and receive guidance tailored to your goals.

Presentations from Elite Photographers

Learn from National Geographic photographers, conservation storytellers, editors, and industry professionals through inspiring presentations and interactive discussions.

Small Group Learning

With a limited enrollment of just 30 participants and multiple instructors, you’ll receive personalized attention both in the classroom and in the field.

Planning & Workshop Logistics

We’ll handle the permits, location planning, and coordination so you can focus on learning, creating, and enjoying your time in the Tetons.

Welcome & Closing Receptions

Connect with fellow photographers, instructors, and industry professionals during our opening welcome and final receptions.

Access to Sony Professional Equipment

Try the latest Sony cameras and lenses during the workshop at no additional cost, with guidance from instructors to help you get the most from the gear.

Master Wildlife & Landscape Photography

Photograph wildlife, dramatic landscapes, macro subjects, and night skies while learning how to work with changing light, compose stronger images, and tell compelling visual stories. Every field session is an opportunity to build confidence and expand your creative skills.

Learn from World-Class Conservation Photographers

Work side-by-side with National Geographic photographers and leading conservation storytellers who provide real-time guidance in the field, daily image critiques, and personalized portfolio reviews. You'll gain practical techniques you can apply long after the workshop ends.

Grow Through Hands-On Experience

This isn't a photo tour, it's an immersive learning experience. Photograph alongside experienced instructors in Grand Teton National Park, receive constructive feedback on your work, and connect with a community of photographers who share your passion for nature and conservation.

The Summit Nature Community

At Summit Nature, the photographs are only part of the experience. For more than 40 years, this workshop has brought together photographers from around the world who share a passion for nature, conservation, and storytelling.

From early morning field sessions to evening image reviews and conversations over dinner, you’ll become part of a community that encourages creativity, supports growth, and celebrates each other’s successes.

You’ll learn from world-class instructors, but you’ll also learn from the photographers beside you. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just beginning your journey, every participant brings a unique perspective, and those shared experiences often become some of the most memorable parts of the week.

Many Summit students return year after year, building friendships that extend well beyond the workshop. You’ll leave with stronger images, new inspiration, and a network of fellow photographers who continue to share ideas, opportunities, and encouragement long after your time in the Tetons ends.

Join a community of photographers who come together to learn, create, and grow.

"I have only one regret with attending the Summit workshop - and it is a fairly significant one: I regret not doing it years sooner. Making connections is one of my chief reasons for coming, but I did not fully anticipate the sense of belonging that I would feel. The sense of finding my place. It is a newfound ambition to remain a part of this community. The knowledge and cumulative experience of the faculty is only matched by their freely sharing of it. I would pay just to sit and listen to Jim Richardson's stories for hours, and the one-on-one time with him and all the other faculty members was priceless. I expected to learn a lot. I did not expect to feel so moved."

Graham Gerdeman

"The caliber of the faculty was/is outstanding. But, more than that, each of the instructors was able to meet me, as a beginning photographer, where I was. They were so open, encouraging and gracious despite the fact I didn't know how to manage my camera's ISO or shutter. Heck, I didn't even realize I could turn the screen around at the back of my camera to have faster access to my menu. (Thank you, Michael!). My head is exploding from all that I learned and, even though I was incredibly anxious, everyone helped and made me feel like it might be possible for me to capture a good photo."

Vivien Zepf

"Feedback from the instructors is priceless. Mike and Dave both helped me in finding a direction to move forward with, in my photography. As always, I am very pleased with how Summit as awhile presents itself and delivers on their workshops. The community that it creates is stellar and hard to find elsewhere. I have suggested to the few photography friends that I have to attend the nature workshop. A special thanks to Chris, Matt, Meg and Ben for all of the hard work put in to make this workshop work so well."

Chris Volpe

"Simply stated, if you want to improve your photography, Summit is the way. With hands on instructors in amazing locations, Summit always delivers the best experiences."

Rick Tackett

"Such a great way to meet other photographers of all standards and learn from each other, everyone had stories and ideas to share."

Malcolm Snelgrove

"I had an excellent time at the workshop. Chris, the photography instructors and the technical staff went out of their way to answer questions and provide advice and assistance whenever necessary. Conversations were straightforward and clear — no ‘fuzz’ and no confusion. Very enjoyable and well worth repeating on future workshops."

Thomas Rorex

Workshop Information

*Summit Workshops is an Authorized Permittee of the National Park Service*

No two days in Grand Teton National Park are ever the same. Each morning brings new light, changing weather, and unexpected wildlife encounters. Our itinerary is designed to give you the time and flexibility to fully immerse yourself in the landscape while learning, creating, and connecting with fellow photographers.

From sunrise field sessions to evening critiques, every part of the week is thoughtfully designed to help you become a stronger photographer.

Please note that while nature doesn’t follow a schedule, neither do we. Our itinerary adapts to changing weather, wildlife activity, and the best photographic opportunities available each day. This allows us to spend more time creating meaningful images and less time simply checking locations off a list.

Day 1: Welcome to the Tetons

Your Summit Nature experience begins by meeting your instructors and fellow photographers. We'll gather for introductions, inspiring presentations from our faculty, and conversations about the week ahead.

You'll begin building connections with a community of photographers who share your passion for nature, storytelling, and exploration.

Days 2–4: Photograph, Learn, Create

The heart of Summit Nature happens in the field.

Each day begins with the best light of the day as we explore Grand Teton National Park with our instructors. Photograph wildlife, fall colors, mountain landscapes, and the unexpected moments that make nature photography so rewarding.

Between field sessions, you'll return to the classroom to download, edit, and refine your images. Through presentations, image critiques, and portfolio reviews, you'll learn how to strengthen your photography and develop a more intentional creative approach. You'll receive guidance on everything from composition and light to storytelling and technique—all while learning directly from some of the industry's most respected nature photographers.

Day 5: Celebrate Your Growth

Your final day brings together everything you've learned throughout the week. After one last opportunity to photograph in the Tetons, you'll share your work, receive final feedback from faculty, and celebrate the images and experiences you've created.

You'll leave with more than a collection of photographs. You'll leave with new skills, new friendships, and a renewed inspiration for your photography.

Travel Details

Our workshop is based at Jackson Lake Lodge, located inside Grand Teton National Park. The nearest airport is Jackson Hole Airport, which is approximately a 45-minute drive from the lodge.

If you’re flying in, we recommend arriving on the first day of the workshop with enough time to travel to the lodge before our evening welcome session. We’ll be in touch ahead of time to help coordinate arrival and departure timing, and many participants choose to share rental cars. While having a car is not required, it does make getting around the park much easier.

Getting Around the Park

Much of our time is spent out in the field photographing throughout the park. We typically travel short distances between locations, often at sunrise and sunset when light and wildlife activity are best. If you do not have a vehicle, we will help coordinate ride-sharing with other participants during field sessions.

Health & Fitness

This workshop is designed to be accessible to a wide range of photographers. Most shooting locations are reached by short walks from parking areas, and we do not require strenuous hiking. If you have specific concerns about mobility or accessibility, feel free to reach out. We’re happy to help you determine if this workshop is a good fit.

That said, you should be comfortable:

Standing for extended periods
Walking on uneven terrain such as dirt trails, grass, or rocky areas
Being outdoors in cool early morning and evening conditions

What to pack

Late September in the Tetons brings a mix of conditions. Mornings can be cold, often near freezing, while afternoons are typically mild and comfortable. Weather can change quickly, with sun, clouds, wind, and occasional rain all possible in a single day.

We recommend building your packing list around layers, protection, and comfort in the field.

CLOTHING:

Warm layers (thermal base layers, fleece, insulated jacket)
Windproof and waterproof outer layer
Hat, gloves, and warm socks
Comfortable, weather-appropriate footwear
Formal attire for welcome and closing receptions (optional)

OTHER:

Pack for carrying gear in the field
Flashlight and/or headlamp (red)
Water bottle
Energy bars or other snacks
Sunscreen and sunglasses

PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR:

2 camera bodies
Wide angle lens
Medium zoom lens
Telephoto lens (ideally 400mm–800mm range)
Tripod or monopod (optional, depending on preference)
Camera bag
Extra batteries and chargers
Laptop or tablet
Memory cards
Hard drive

Sony Gear

We are proud to partner with Sony, giving students the unique opportunity to experience some of the latest professional camera bodies and lenses in the field during the workshop. Throughout the week, participants can check out Sony gear to test and use in real shooting conditions in the field. This hands-on access allows you to explore new equipment, refine your technique, and see how different tools can impact your creative results, all while receiving guidance from our instructors in real time.

a faculty of World-Class Wildlife Photographers

National Geographic photographer Jim Richardson — Jim Richardson

Michael Forsberg Portrait session for Nebraska Luminaries Project — Michael Forsberg

Summit Instructor Morgan Heim — Morgan Heim

Summit Workshops director Chris Steppig — Owner / Director
Chris Steppig

Summit Instructor Matt Stirn — Faculty / Staff
Matt Stirn

Jim Richardson

Jim Richardson is a photographer for National Geographic Magazine and a contributing editor for its sister publication, TRAVELER Magazine. Richardson has photographed more than fifty stories for National Geographic. Richardson’s work has taken him around the world, from the tops of volcanic peaks to below the surface of the soil that provides our food, from the Arctic to the Antarctic and many places in between. ABC News Nightline produced a story about the long process of assembling a National Geographic coverage by following Richardson in the field and at National Geographic Society headquarters in Washington, D.C. In addition to his color photography, Richardson has built a distinguished body of black-and-white documentary work about rural Kansas life. His audiovisual presentation, “Reflections From a Wide Spot in the Road,” has toured internationally. His 40 years of photographing life in the Kansas town of Cuba, population 230, was published in National Geographic and featured twice by CBS News Sunday Morning, most recently in May 2004. His 1979 study of adolescence, “High School USA,” is now considered a photo essay classic and is used in college classrooms. Richardson was named Kansan of the Year in 2007 by the Native Sons and Daughters of Kansas. In 2015 he was honored by his fellow National Geographic photographers as their “Photographer’s Photographer.” And in 2017 Kansas State University bestowed an honorary doctorate for his work in cultural and environmental communications. He is co-founder of Eyes On Earth, an educational collaborative seeking to inspire next generation environmental photographers. Jim’s career at National Geographic magazine and National Geographic Traveler spanned over 35 years, during which time he produced over 50 stories. His stories ranged from poignant location based essays to complex scientific and geographical issues coverage. He’s valued for his compelling storytelling and his deft command of technical skills. Beyond his picture making he’s also highly regarded as a presenter and teacher. His lectures draw corporate clients to international venues. His topics ranged widely from world food, small towns and light pollution to include his much sought after whisky tastings. Whether discussing documentary, landscape, night sky or iPhone photography, he brings a down-to-earth practicality to his lectures that is as enjoyable as it is instructive.

Michael Forsberg

Michael Forsberg is a Nebraskan whose 30-year career as a photographer and conservationist has been dedicated to wildlife and conservation stories in North America’s Great Plains, once one of the greatest grassland ecosystems on Earth. His images have been featured in publications including Audubon, National Geographic, Nature Conservancy, and Sierra magazines. His fine art prints are in public and private collections, and his solo exhibitions have traveled nationwide.

In 2017, Mike received the Ansel Adams Award for Conservation Photography from the Sierra Club in Washington, DC, and the Environmental Impact Award from the North American Nature Photography Association. Also, in 2017, his image of sandhill cranes on the Platte River was selected to illustrate USPS’s Forever stamp celebrating Nebraska’s 150 years of Statehood. In 2000, his photograph of a Nebraska tallgrass prairie was issued as an international airmail stamp in the United States Postal Service’s American Scenes Series. In 2020, Mike received the J. Sherwood Chalmers Medal from The Garden Club of America.

Mike is the author and photographer of On Ancient Wings – The Sandhill Cranes of North America, self-published in 2005, Great Plains – America’s Lingering Wild, published by the University of Chicago Press in 2009 and Into Whooperland – A photographer’s journey with whooping cranes, self-published in 2024. He was featured in the Nebraska Public Media documentary Crane Song and co-produced Great Plains – America’s Lingering Wild, based on his book of the same title, released on PBS in 2013.

In 2011, Mike co-founded Platte Basin Timelapse (PBT) in partnership with the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and Michael Farrell Photography and Fine Art. Today, it is a conservation storytelling project that informs scientific research, builds educational content, and tells stories of a Great Plains watershed in motion. The documentary Follow the Water, based on the project and Mike’s traverse across the Platte Basin watershed, was released on PBS nationally in 2019.

Mike is a faculty member in the School of Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, a Fellow with the Center for Great Plains Studies and the Daugherty Water for Food Institute, a member of The Photo Society, and a Senior Fellow with the International League of Conservation Photographers.

Melissa Groo

Melissa is a photographer, writer, and conservationist. She considers herself a “wildlife biographer,” telling stories with images and words that showcase the unique character and beauty of wild beings.

She’s a Sony Artisan of Imagery, an Associate Fellow with the International League of Conservation Photographers, and advisor to the National Audubon Society on photography content and ethics. She’s a contributing editor to Audubon magazine.

Melissa is an assignment photographer for Audubon and Smithsonian magazines, traveling far afield to cover conservation stories. Her work also appears in publications such as National Geographic, National Wildlife, and Living Bird magazines. Melissa is represented by National Geographic Image Collection and has a long-term gallery at Audubon Greenwich in Connecticut.

Morgan Heim

Morgan (Mo) Heim raises a camera for one purpose – to capture moments in an animal’s life that will make us consider what that life means. Inevitably, those stories involve people as much as wildlife. How we treat them. Why we need them. What we love, or hate about them. Mo, used to work as a wildlife ecologist for NOAA on things like killer whale surveys and the Elwha Dam Removal project. She later earned a Master’s in environmental journalism and is a senior fellow of the International League of Conservation Photographers (iLCP). She has covered endangered fishing cats and shrimp farm development, and the environmental impacts of marijuana grows in our nation’s forests. In 2016, she became a National Geographic grantee for her collaboration on urban coyotes. Her photographic work has appeared in outlets such as Smithsonian, Discover, NationalGeographic.com, Nature Conservancy Magazine, and bioGraphic.com.

Dave Showalter

Conservation photographer and author Dave Showalter is based in Colorado and focused on the American West. Dave has published three books – the new book: Living River – The Promise Of The Mighty Colorado, Sage Spirit, The American West at A Crossroads by Braided River (2015); and Prairie Thunder by Skyline Press (2007). Dave’s photographs and articles have appeared in numerous publications, including Audubon, Conservation Biology, Outside, Outdoor Photographer, National Parks Magazine, High Country News, Wilderness, Colorado Life and elsewhere. In partnership with Braided River, Dave’s exhibit “Colorado: Sage Spirit and Roaring Rivers” was displayed at Denver International Airport 2018/2019 and viewed by over 2 million people. Dave is faculty with the Summit Series of Photo Workshops, a Senior Fellow Photographer in the International League of Conservation Photographers (iLCP), and works in partnership with numerous conservation groups, including Audubon Rockies, The Nature Conservancy, and Trout Unlimited Headwaters (Colorado River).

Dave travels extensively presenting Living River, Sage Spirit and a range of western topics. Please contact Dave directly through this site to plan a presentation, hire Dave for assignment, or plan a photo workshop.

Mariah Lundgren

Mariah is a conservation storyteller, filmmaker and photographer. She is dedicated to telling stories within the Great Plains and the American West. She loves giving voice to the voiceless and telling stories that will help people better understand our natural world.

She is a graduate of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln with a BS in Environmental Studies, and a minor Fisheries & Wildlife. She is the producer & project manager for the Platte Basin Timelapse project; a long-term documentary project using time-lapse and traditional photography and multimedia storytelling to educate about the Platte River Basin and what it means to live in a watershed today. This project has taught her the art and importance of storytelling and science communication. She is also a photographers assistant with Michael Forsberg who is Senior Fellow with the International League of Conservation Photographers and is represented by National Geographic Creative.

Allen Murabayashi

Allen Murabayashi is the Chairman and Co-founder of PhotoShelter, the worldwide leader in photography portfolio websites, photo sales, marketing and archiving tools for photographers. Allen previously served as a founding employee and Senior Vice President of Engineering at HotJobs.com.

Owner / Director

Chris Steppig

Chris has spent his entire career at Summit Workshops, joining in 2004 as his first job out of college, becoming director in 2014, and taking ownership of the company in 2019. That trajectory shows in how he runs it: he oversees every part of the Summit experience, workshop operations, scheduling, logistics, faculty, marketing, and partnerships, with a belief that the best photography workshops don’t just teach technique, they build the kind of connection that shapes people as much as their pictures.

That belief has been tested and deepened through Chris’s work off the trail. He previously served on the board of the International League of Conservation Photographers (iLCP), a global network of visual storytellers using photography to advance conservation, including six months as the organization’s interim executive director, and continues to support iLCP’s fundraising efforts today. The experience reinforced what Chris has long believed: that photography, at its best, is a way of paying closer attention to the people and places in front of the lens, and that the stories worth telling are built on real connection first.

Faculty / Staff

Matt Stirn

Matt is a photographer, writer, and archaeologist based between Boston and Jackson Hole, Wyoming. He holds a graduate degree in Environmental Archaeology and focuses on stories related to culture, history, and conservation. Matt is a Contributing Editor for Archaeology Magazine, a National Fellow at The Explorer’s Club and has written and photographed over three dozen feature stories for publications including Smithsonian Magazine, National Geographic, The New York Times, BBC Global News, and GEO.

Images from past students

Grand Teton mountains at sunrise in the fall with birds flying overhead

moose standing in forest in Grand Teton National Park during a light rainstorm

elk bugling during fall rut in Grand Teton National Park

One golden aspen among pine trees during fall in Grand Teton National Park

bison herd walking across open plains with Teton mountains behind them

Stars over String Lake in the Grand Teton National Park

black bear feeding on berries in the Grand Teton National Park

bison herd walking across a road in the Grand Teton National park with cars around them

elk during fall rut in Grand Teton National Park with mountains in background

Macro photography of insects in field in Grand Teton National Park

fall colors and Teton Range reflected in calm lake in Grand Teton National Park

bison standing in a field in the Grand Teton National Park

Summit Nature workshop 2025, deer, Jackson airport

Two pronghorn butting heads in a field in the Grand Teton national park

Dramatic light over misty mountains in the Grand Teton National Park

elk bugling during fall rut in Grand Teton National Park with mountains in background

snow-capped Teton peaks in Wyoming during fall

Bull elk standing in the morning mist in Grand Teton National Park during a Summit Nature photography workshop.

Frequently Asked Questions

What wildlife will we see?

Wildlife sightings vary, but common subjects include moose, elk, bison, and pronghorn. Occasionally, photographers may also encounter foxes or bears. Every week is different, which is part of what makes photographing the Tetons so exciting.

Do I need to use a specific camera brand?

No! Summit Workshops is available to any photographer, regardless of what brand of camera you use. We often have camera gear available to borrow, free of charge, but you are not required to use that gear or any specific brand.

What does my tuition cover?

Tuition includes activity fees, location fees, all instruction, planning and logistics. It does not cover hotels, travel, and most meals.

How much experience should I have?

This nature photography workshop in Grand Teton National Park is open to all skill levels. Whether you are a beginner looking to build a strong foundation or an experienced photographer refining your vision, our instructors provide personalized guidance in the field.

What are image critiques?

Our image critiques are constantly mentioned as being the most important/valuable component of our workshops. It's not only a chance to get your work reviewed, but also to see your peers' images. It is not structured as a competition, but a growth experience. So do not feel it has the be your best of the best or how it might stack up to others. You get to hear the opinions of the faculty and everything you will hear from them is 100% meant to help you. They are also anonymous and meant to be constructive and useful to your professional growth.

We ask each student to submit 3-5 images taken while at the workshop. We typically send the link out the afternoon before the image critique, which gives you the evening to get your images in.

Do I need a car for this workshop?

A car isn’t required, but it’s definitely recommended. Having your own vehicle makes it much easier to get around during the workshop and explore the park between sessions. If you don’t have one, we’ll pair you up with another participant for our on-location shoots around Grand Teton National Park.

If you’re flying in, please note that Jackson Lake Lodge is about 45 minutes from the airport. We’ll be in touch ahead of time to help coordinate arrival and departure times so transportation runs smoothly.

Lodging & Classroom

We will be staying inside the Grand Teton National Park, staying at the iconic Jackson Lake Lodge. With stunning views, a restaurant, coffee shop, and shopping right on-site, you’ll be at the heart of the action, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and wildlife just steps away. We’ve secured discounted rates for students of the workshop, making it easier than ever to immerse yourself in this unforgettable experience. This is where the workshop classroom is located and where the faculty and staff will be staying!

After signing up, we will contact you with a booking link to secure your room.

Join Us in Grand Teton National Park

Spend five days immersed in the landscapes and wildlife of Grand Teton National Park, learning alongside passionate photographers and experienced instructors. From early morning light to quiet moments in the field, this workshop is designed to help you grow creatively while experiencing one of the most inspiring places in the country.

Spaces are limited and this workshop fills quickly each year. Reserve your spot today and be part of a tradition that has brought photographers together in the Tetons for over 40 years!

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Our Workshop Partners

Sony Alpha Universe

Sony Alpha Universe is here for the makers, the doers, the people who dream in colors. You bring your curiosity and ideas, we’ll provide the knowledge, the inspiration, and the state-of-the-art imaging tech to help you make dreams reality.