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Newbie here, thinking of making my first visit to Antelope Canyon during an upcoming Az trek this October. Have any of you done much photography within either Upper or Lower during this time of year? Just wondering what the lighting might be like, whether it'd be worth it, or should I plan something closer to May thru June?

Probably a great question to post in a forum dedicated to photography, I know you could get some great answers in the RMNP forum at naturephotographers

I would figure that since the best time to shoot Antelope is during midday when the direct light reflects off the walls, the time of year wouldn't really be a huge issue? Either way, if the light doesn't pan out in Antelope there's plenty of other places nearby. Horseshoe bend, Vermillion Cliffs, Lake Powell. It's not like you won't be itching to return again after the first time ;) If the light isn't great in Antelope in October it'll be a great excuse to come back!

My understanding is that the light beams only show up in the summer months, when the sun is closer to straight up-and-down. In the spring, fall, and winter, the sun is at too low of an angle to penetrate the convoluted canyon walls. Best way to find out would be to call one of the tour companies up here.

The tour companies are VERY keyed into the photography in the Upper Canyon - to the point where there are very scripted moments when you and 15 of your new best friends all stop to get the very same shot. They'll be able to tell you quite a lot about the timing and light conditions. If you go, pay the extra $$ for the photography tour - you'll have much more time to work with and they'll even shoo people out of the way for you. Unless you get lucky and go during the week, don't expect to be alone, however. It's quite the tourist attraction.

Ok, thanks, Yeah that was my understanding as well, about the winter sun's angle, that it might have an effect on how much light gets in there.