Mojave Desert Travel Photography Guide: Capturing the Vast Beauty of the Desert

The best time to visit is during March-April for wildflowers, October-November for mild weather, June-August for astrophotography. However, avoid July-August during peak heat, January-February due to occasional road closures due to less favorable conditions.

The nearest airport is McCarran International Airport (Las Vegas) or Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Limited; personal vehicle is essential Ample parking available at most sites, though dirt roads require high-clearance vehicles

Recommended cameras include Sony A7III, Nikon Z7 II. For lenses, consider bringing 16-35mm f/2.8 for landscapes, 70-200mm f/2.8 for compressing dunes and wildlife, 24mm f/1.4 for astrophotography.

Joshua Tree National Park: Best visited during Golden hour or nighttime for astrophotography. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of trees and sky Kelso Dunes: Best visited during Sunrise or sunset for dramatic light on dunes. Use telephoto lenses to emphasize dune patterns Amboy Crater: Best visited during Morning or late afternoon for side lighting on the crater. Climb the crater for panoramic views Red Rock Canyon State Park: Best visited during Golden hour for warm light enhancing the rock colors. Use polarizing filters to deepen rock colors Mojave Lava Tube: Best visited during Midday when light beams are most visible. Bring a flashlight for exploring and composing shots

Carry extra water and sunscreen Bring a sturdy tripod for night and low-light photography Plan for spotty cell service; download maps in advance Use high-clearance vehicles for remote locations