Picture spectacular vistas of sandstone cliffs with forests of gambel oak and sparkling crystal waters tumbling in playful rapids on the Rio Chama in New Mexico’s Georgia O’Keeffe country. Then picture yourself capturing all that beauty on film with the expert tutelage of Colorado’s premier landscape photographer and naturalist, John Fielder.

The Rio Chama, designated by Congress as a “Wild and Scenic” river, flows through 35 miles of remote canyon wilderness in northern New Mexico, where towering ponderosa pines decorate pristine campsites. Make your reservations now to join Fielder’s Rio Chama Photography Adventure, planned for Aug. 23-26, and you’ll be on your way to an extraordinary wilderness canyon adventure.

You’ll climb to sublime overlooks of the river and its colorful canyon walls, float through heavily forested sandstone canyons, and visit old homesteads and the Christ of the Desert Monastery — all providing some of the most photogenic scenery in the Southwest. An assortment of calm water and moderate whitewater is suitable for first-time river travelers or those seeking outstanding scenery without challenging rapids. Easy hiking along the river’s edge makes this adventure a comfortable experience for every photographer.

This workshop offers a well-rounded educational experience, appropriate for any level of outdoor photographer and nature lover, but especially for beginners and intermediates. No one should feel underqualified to attend. A limit of 13 participants gives everyone quality time with Fielder and ensures that each person gets the specific instruction needed, based on their individual level of experience.

Learn how to spot photo opportunities, experiment with perspectives, improve compositions and get an insider’s look at professional techniques.

Your river trip, coordinated by Arkansas River Tours, will begin at El Vado Ranch, a 30- to 40-minute drive from Chama, N.M. You vehicle will be shuttled to the take-out at Big Eddy, where it will be waiting at the end of the trip. Along the way, you’ll fine ample opportunities to spot wildlife on the shore, and there will be plenty of time for hiking and photography while camping. A rainy summer could offer a profusion of wildflowers and plenty of green.

IF YOU GO

Tuition for Fielder’s Rio Chama Photography Adventure is $1,395 per person and includes group and individual workshop instruction; your guided three-day, two-night rafting trip; all meals, except breakfast on day two (vegetarian and other dietary needs can be accommodated); and information on products and services.

Get a detailed itinerary and make you reservations by visiting www.johnfielder.com, or call 1-303-368-5208. Two one-day upcoming photography workshops, “Spring Scenery Photography Workshop,” in Breckenridge, are scheduled for June 16 and June 17.

JOY HARPER, THE GAZETTE

The Rio Chama, designated by Congress as a “Wild and Scenic” river, flows through 35 miles of remote canyon wilderness in northern New Mexico. Photo courtesy of John Fielder

Photo courtesy of John Fielder