What we’re about
The Desert Photo Explorers is the group for all outdoor and landscape photographers who enjoy capturing the amazing natural beauty that is found all around Nevada, Utah, California, Arizona… And states beyond!
DPE welcomes outdoor photographers of all skills from beginner to professional, and fosters an inclusive environment of sharing knowledge and learning from each other. Events will visit both popular locations, and well as some of the lesser known spots, to put you in a position to come home with images that you make you proud! Timing will vary depending on event and location for the best possible success, whether that is sunrise, sunset, blue or golden hour, or even nighttime for astrophotography.
Some events may be free of charge, others could have a fee payable at the event location or due to the organizer. These will be outlined in the event page itself. Attending events could also result in additional costs such as transportation, splitting of gas if carpooling, food, lodging and all other expenses.
If you are looking forward to having some outdoor photo adventures, meeting new people, improving our photo skills and having fun then click that Join button to become the newest DPE member!
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Please be aware that outdoor photography often requires hiking up to several miles in exposed conditions, standing and/or walking on sandy, gravel or other uneven or slick surfaces, and changing weather conditions while carrying your photo equipment. By signing up for this group, you certify that you are aware of these risks and others that could result in personal injury or death, or property damage, and agree to hold the group organizer(s) and event leader(s) free of all liability.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Mesquite Motor Mania 2025Casablanca Resort in Mesquite, Mesquite 89027, NV
Those who attended this event this year had an absolute blast and got some amazing pictures, so let’s go back again in 2025! With over 900 cars on display, it was a photographer’s paradise – a dazzling mix of classic hot rods, modern muscle cars, and sleek supercars. The event, which runs from January 17-19 next year, features stunning chrome, eye-catching paint jobs, and roaring engines.
We had so much fun capturing not just the cars, but also the passionate owners who proudly shared stories of their beloved vehicles. The energy and excitement was contagious, and the camaraderie made for some great candid moments. We’ll definitely be back at this amazing show held at various Mesquite locations, including the CasaBlanca Resort, Eureka Casino, Oasis, and Virgin River parking lots.
If you can’t find something to take a great picture of here, well… you are not trying too hard!
Click here for more information about the Mesquite Motor Mania Car Show
While this is a 3 day show, Saturday is the “official” DPE event day. Feel free to attend any of the days that match your schedule, however.
MEETUP INFO:
This is a NO HOST meetup; information is being posted solely to make DPE members aware of this event. If anyone plans to attend and wants to meet other group members, drop a note in the discussion section.Mesquite is around a 90 minute drive from Las Vegas, so plan accordingly to arrive in time for the scheduled event(s).
The event schedule can be found online here.
MEETUP FEES:
There are no fees for this Meetup.ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
By submitting you RSVP and participating in any Desert Photo Explorers event, you agree that the Organizer(s), and Event Host(s) are NOT responsible for your safety or for any injury or damage to your person or your property, or that of your guest(s). You agree that you have read the instructions of this announcement and that you and your guest(s) are assuming all risks of participating in the event. - Mesquite Hot Air Balloon Festival 2025Casa Blanca Resort, Mesquite, NV
This is becoming an annual tradition because if offers so many interesting photo opportunities and it’s an event our members really seem to enjoy!
Hot Air Balloons may not be the fastest way to fly the skies, but you can’t argue that they can be among the most colorful! Let’s take the opportunity to shoot these brightly colored balloons at the annual Mesquite Hot Air Balloon Festival taking place from January 24-26. Our official DPE day will be on Saturday, January 25, but feel free to attend and enjoy any or all of the days!
As the sun goes down, a balloon glow will take place in the evening (6-7pm), offering a beautiful photo opportunity of inflated balloons lit by their burners. And early each morning the balloons will take flight (weather permitting) for more photo opportunities as they go up, up and away! Spectators are invited to walk among the inflated hot air balloons on display for an up-close experience.
The Festival takes place at the Casablanca Resort in Mesquite, NV.
Click here for more information about the Mesquite Hot Air Balloon Festival
Note that the balloon events are weather dependent, so the schedule could change without notice.
MEETUP INFO:
This is a NO HOST meetup; information is being posted solely to make DPE members aware of this event. If anyone plans to attend and wants to meet other group members, drop a note in the discussion section.Mesquite is around a 90 minute drive from Las Vegas, so plan accordingly to arrive in time for the scheduled event(s).
The event schedule can be found online here.
MEETUP FEES:
There are no fees for this Meetup.ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
By submitting you RSVP and participating in any Desert Photo Explorers event, you agree that the Organizer(s), and Event Host(s) are NOT responsible for your safety or for any injury or damage to your person or your property, or that of your guest(s). You agree that you have read the instructions of this announcement and that you and your guest(s) are assuming all risks of participating in the event.
