Kristy Jessica's Art Nude
Photography in Utah Excursions

How do your Utah shoots work — is it a workshop?
Not at all — it’s casual and one-on-one. Most shoots are just me and the photographer, though bringing a second model or second photographer is totally fine too, as long as everyone fits in the truck.

What kinds of locations can we shoot in?
Slot canyons, cliff edges, rolling valleys, rainbow-colored bentonite hills, badlands, red rock formations, and canyons with “Swiss cheese” textured walls.

Do you handle location scouting, or should I?
I’ve got it covered. I’ve been shooting in this region for five and a half years and I’m constantly out scouting new spots between bookings — there are endless options.

What region is this in?
About an hour and a half west of Moab, in the San Rafael Swell area near Capitol Reef. I’ll tell you exactly where to stay and the nearest airport (Salt Lake City) once we’re booked.

Will we be hiking, and how strenuous is it?
It’s fully tailored to you. If you have limitations, we can keep walks to just a few minutes and still hit 4-6 locations a day. The longest hike I’ve ever done with a photographer is about 20 minutes.

What should I bring?
Your camera, a wide angle and portrait lens (most photographers don’t go longer than 100mm), sunscreen, and hiking or tennis shoes. Lighting gear is optional — better to have it and not need it. I bring water, snacks, a towel, and my own wardrobe.

What time of day do we shoot?
Sunrise to sunset with a long lunch break — about 8 hours total, split into two 4-hour blocks around the best light.

Will other hikers or tourists see us?
Rarely. I choose secluded spots specifically for privacy, and I’ve found alternative locations away from the more “Instagram-famous” spots. If someone does pass by, I just throw on a jacket — never been an issue.

What’s your posing style?

Fine art nude is my specialty, but I’m equally experienced in glamour, pinup, advanced yoga, and avant-garde. I love bringing your vision to life — send me inspiration images and I’ll make it happen. I can also fully direct myself if you’d rather just shoot.

Can I record video or behind-the-scenes content?
Yes, absolutely — I love it, and I love seeing BTS content shared too.

What happens if the weather’s bad?
Spring and fall are usually mild, but if rain rules out a shoot day, I’ll refund you. So far, that’s never actually happened.

Do you provide transportation?
Yes — we ride in my 2023 Ford Ranger 4×4, built for the dirt/mud/rock roads out there. You just need to get yourself to the town where we’re staying; I handle all driving to locations from there.

How do we handle image releases afterward?
I’ll sign any model or commercial release you need. You don’t owe me any images — my compensation is the shoot fee — though I always appreciate it when people share a few.

Are you comfortable working with beginners?
Yes, as long as the focus is genuinely on photography. Happy to hop on a call first so we’re both comfortable before the shoot.

How far in advance should I book?
I recommend 6 months out — I’m usually fully booked within 4 months of the season opening. Accommodations in town are limited too. That said, cancellations happen, so it’s always worth reaching out even last-minute.

I’ve never worked with a nude model before — should I be nervous?
It’s totally okay to feel nervous. My job is to help you get comfortable, and I promise it’ll be fine.