The Salton Sea, California’s largest lake, was formed by accident in 1905 by an engineering mishap during irrigation of the Imperial Valley. Over time, it has been a hotbed for sports fishing, a recreational area boasting more visitors than Yosemite, and an important wetland for migratory birds. Currently the sea is lined with dead fish and is shrinking fast, and its decaying ruins, plentiful birdlife, intriguing off-the-grid culture, and gorgeous light have made it something of a Mecca for photographers. Sandi Wheaton has been traveling to the Salton Sea annually to document its constantly changing landscape and knows exactly where the great places are for interesting photographs. In this workshop, you will explore the east shores and discover inspiring art sites like Leonard Knight’s Salvation Mountain (featured in the movie “Into the Wild”) and East Jesus sculpture garden, as well as spend time capturing beautiful natural landscapes and seascapes along the southeast shores of the Salton Sea. Be sure to bring rubber boots, as some of the best locations are muddy near the water’s edge (but that’s where the best photos are!). Please note that the Salton Sea is constantly changing, and some of the iconic structures that have been popular to photograph are rapidly disappearing – but new great photo locations are revealing themselves as well!

Click to download the course outline: Salton Sea Photography Workshop