Why is this photography experience so magical?
Magic of Cowboys is so much more than just your standard photography workshop with horses, cattle and cowboys. This is delightfully SO much more! Numerous participants have come back annually -- a testament to how special and beloved this event has become.
Feeding the heart, soul and camera
The Magic of Cowboys will lift your spirits! You'll have a buffet of photo opportunities that are creatively packed into three days of fun. Marvel at the diversity of high quality, unique images you'll come away with and how much you'll learn along the way.
He's Back! Duncan Vezain returns for the workshop
A Hollywood Movie Stuntman, Returning in 2026
We are excited to welcome back Duncan Vezain for the Magic of Cowboys workshop in Gold Canyon, Arizona, February 5 to 8, 2026. A Hollywood stuntman and stunt coordinator known for motion-picture work and acting, Duncan brings more than 25 years of experience in breeding and training versatile horses. His skills span ranch work, stagecoach driving, and precision horsemanship. Duncan will again bring his skilled team to work with us, creating dynamic, authentic scenarios and elevating the experience for every participant.
What You'll Learn
Action
Learn to capture dynamic scenes with fast-moving horses, cattle, and cowboys in action. You'll photograph roping, herding, and many other exciting ranch activities!
Portraiture
Designed for photographers of all levels, this relaxed and judgment-free experience will guide you through portrait photography, making it fun and approachable for everyone.
Silhouettes
Master the art of creating dramatic and beautiful silhouettes of cowboys, cowgirls and landscapes. You'll learn how to use light and shadow to produce images.
Want to Learn More?
Head over to the registration page for full workshop details, daily itineraries, and more.
What's Included
Important Information
Once you register for the workshop, we will provide you with all the necessary information to ensure your trip is stress-free and enjoyable. This includes travel details, such as transportation options and directions, as well as a more detailed description of the workshop itinerary and schedule. Our aim is to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of what to expect from the workshop, so that you can arrive feeling prepared and ready to learn.
Location
An easy, 45-minute drive from the Phoenix Sky Harbor airport transports you to an entirely different place where time slows down, history is deep, and the traditional ways of cowboys and cowgirls are carried on. Located against the stunning backdrop of the legendary Superstition Mountains on 5,800 acres of the pristine Sonoran Desert in Gold Canyon, Arizona, lies the very special Donnelly D-Spur Ranch.
The “D-Spur” is a decades-old, privately owned, working ranch with some of the most spectacular scenery in the Valley of the Sun. Situated adjacent to the Tonto National Forest and legendary Superstition Mountains, It will be our jaw-dropping setting for your Magic of Cowboys Photo Experience!
What Else?
Award-winning, authentic "Chuckwagon" meals
Our "chuckwagon" chef has won numerous awards and competitions for her chuckwagon style cooking over an open fire! Using hot coals, cast iron, and incredible recipes, she’ll prepare meals by campfire for us that are beyond amazing! See how it was done 100+ years ago and taste the rich flavors that go along with the experience!
Free-Roaming horses/cattle
Our cowboys will work cattle in the pen, the nearby landscape, and/or will round up free-range cattle in from the open range for us to photograph. Additionally, there are often free-roaming horses on the land surrounding the ranch.
Free-time for your photography
Apply what you have learned! Explore the ranch and photograph the landscape, cattle, cowboys, cowgirls, horses, and more.
