Wyoming Ranch Workshop
Equine Photo Encaustic Workshop
September 12 - 18, 2026
Wolf, WY
Photographing Horses in the Wide-Open American West
A one-of-a-kind, inclusive art experience at Eatons’ Wyoming Ranch—open to photographers and artists of all backgrounds and experience levels.
About the Workshop
In this immersive Wyoming horse photography workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to photograph horses, expansive landscapes, and the unmistakable spirit of the American West. Set at Eatons’ Ranch in the Big Horn Mountains, each day offers encounters with horses moving freely through light, dust, and open land—including the unforgettable experience of more than 200 horses running past every morning
Our time will be shared between the field and the studio, where we’ll refine photographic skills, explore new ways of seeing, and discuss how to translate what you capture into finished work. You’ll have the opportunity to ride daily and photograph the horses in their natural environment, surrounded by the sweeping beauty of Wyoming’s wide-open spaces.
This workshop extends beyond photography alone. In the studio we’ll take selected images, print them on tissue paper, and embed them in encaustic—introducing a tactile, layered process that adds depth and luminosity to your photographs.
At its heart, this is a gathering of artists who value curiosity, connection, and shared creative time. Through conversation, laughter, and making, we create a supportive environment where experimentation is encouraged and individual voices are respected.
You’ll leave with meaningful artwork, new perspectives, and lasting connections with fellow artists who share a love of photography and photo encaustic. If you’re drawn to horses, landscape, and creating work that feels grounded and personal, this workshop offers an invitation to step into the beauty and quiet power of the Big Horn Mountains of Wyoming.
Our adventure takes place in the heart of the American West, in a landscape where little has changed over generations. Set on a working cattle ranch in a remote and quiet part of Wyoming, our week together unfolds among wide-open spaces, horses, photography, and art making—within a supportive community of like-minded artists.
This workshop offers a rare opportunity to explore photo encaustic with a focus on horses, combining photography and wax in a way that honors both process and subject. The beauty, strength, and presence of the horses become not just what we photograph, but how we learn to see.
The mountain ranch itself is deeply inspiring and home to more than 200 horses. On the first morning, as the herd runs past, the experience is both exhilarating and humbling. Throughout the week, you’ll have opportunities to photograph horses at liberty, create portrait images with horses and wranglers, and capture the energy of rodeo roping. The light and colors of fall bring a distinct warmth and vitality, infusing your work with a sense of movement and life.
As we explore the ranch, our cameras become constant companions. Majestic horses, expansive landscapes, and quiet, unscripted moments provide endless photographic possibilities—from early morning light over grazing horses to candid scenes of wranglers at work. The untamed beauty of Wyoming shapes both what we photograph and how we respond creatively.
Our days are thoughtfully structured, balancing time in the field with workshop instruction, mentoring, group discussion, and dedicated studio and open studio time. After each shoot, we’ll review and download images together, discussing which photographs best support your creative vision. A large, well-equipped studio will be set up for the workshop, including a 13×19 photo printer and a generously stocked supply table. You’ll go home with up to four finished encaustic pieces.
Throughout the workshop, we’ll explore the full creative process, including::
• Perspective and seeing
• Composition
• Photographing
• Editing and image selection
• Printing
• Embedding photographs into encaustic
This is a one-of-a-kind experience and as the workshop comes to a close, you’ll leave with renewed creative energy, a strong collection of photographs and finished artwork, and memories shaped by time, land, and shared experience. It’s in these moments—of connection to place, to horses, and to one another—that this workshop becomes something truly meaningful.
So, saddle up, grab your camera, and join us on this unforgettable adventure.
About Clare O'Neill
Clare O’Neill is a fine-art photographer and encaustic artist whose work is deeply rooted in photographing horses and translating their presence, movement, and spirit into layered, tactile artwork. Her encaustic pieces—often created by embedding tissue paper prints into beeswax—are known for their depth, luminosity, and quiet sense of power, echoing the landscapes and animals that inspire them.
Horses play a central role in Clare’s creative practice. She photographs them not as subjects to be directed, but as living beings in relationship with land, light, and weather. That same respect and attentiveness carries through her encaustic work, where layers are built slowly and intuitively, allowing images to reveal themselves over time.
Clare is known for sharing her process openly and generously. Her teaching style is hands-on, thoughtful, and encouraging, offering clear demonstrations and step-by-step guidance while leaving room for personal exploration. Participants are invited to experiment with materials, take creative risks, and embrace the unexpected—often where the most compelling work emerges.
Above all, Clare creates a supportive and inclusive environment where artists feel safe to explore, ask questions, and develop their own voice. She offers individualized feedback and mentorship, helping each participant connect more deeply with both their subject matter and their way of working.
To learn more about Clare go www.ClareONeill.com
Working with beeswax and photography is full of mystery and magic. Add the power and beauty of a horse, and something truly captivating emerges.
FAQ's
How much photography experience do I need?
You don’t need to be a professional photographer—just someone who enjoys photographing. All levels are welcome. Bring whatever camera you’re most comfortable using, whether that’s a point-and-shoot, mirrorless, or DSLR. The only requirement is that you’re able to transfer your images to a computer or jump drive so they can be printed.
Can I come with just my iPhone?
Absolutely. Many participants attend the workshop using only their iPhone and create beautiful, meaningful work.
How much encaustic experience do I need?
To get the most out of this workshop, it’s helpful to have some prior experience working with encaustic. We won’t be covering the very basics—such as substrates, applying wax, fusing, pigments, or photo transfers—so having a foundation will allow you to focus on your creative vision rather than learning from scratch.
If you’re new to encaustic, please don’t let this stop you from registering. I’ve made this easy and accessible so you don’t miss out on the experience. Before the workshop, I offer a short, beginner-friendly video series that covers the essentials, along with a simple starter kit so you can get a feel for working with molten beeswax and fusing at home. This introduction allows you to arrive in Wyoming feeling confident and ready to create.
Do I need to bring any supplies?
All encaustic materials will be provided. If you have favorite tools, pigments, or mark-making materials you enjoy using, feel free to bring them along. A detailed list of what’s provided—and what you may want to bring—will be sent several weeks before the workshop.
Can I work on photographs that weren’t taken during the workshop?
Absolutely. You’re welcome to work on any images you choose. In past workshops, participants have brought everything from wildlife to personal projects. This is your time to explore and create.
Will we have permission to photograph the wranglers and use the images?
I’ll have model release forms available for the wranglers to sign, as well as a property release if needed. When I arrive at the ranch, I always speak with the wranglers ahead of time to confirm that everyone is comfortable being photographed and willing to sign a release. I want to be clear from the start if there is anyone we should not photograph.
While the wranglers change from year to year, I’ve never had anyone decline to sign a release. It’s highly unlikely, and if there were any restrictions, we would know before taking any photographs.
When does the workshop begin and end?
Please plan to arrive at the ranch by 4:00 pm on Saturday, September 12. We’ll wrap up late afternoon on Thursday, September 17, and you can plan your departure for Friday, September 18.
Where is the workshop held?
The workshop takes place at Eatons’ Ranch in Wolf, Wyoming.
What airport should I fly into?
The closest airport is Sheridan, Wyoming (SHR), with connections through Denver on United Airlines (note that these flights may not always appear on third-party booking sites, so check United.com directly). Transfers to and from Sheridan are included in the workshop price. You may also fly into Billings, Montana (BIL), which offers more airline options. Billings is about a two-hour drive from the ranch, and you’ll need to rent a car.
My flight arrives late—will transportation still be available?
If your flight arrives late in the evening, I recommend staying overnight at a hotel in Sheridan. The ranch van will pick you up at your hotel the following day, making the arrival process smooth and stress-free. Be sure to choose a hotel that offers airport shuttle service.
Can I stay an extra night after the workshop?
Yes. If you’d like to extend your stay, you can arrange additional nights directly with Eatons’ Ranch.
Can I bring someone who isn’t taking the workshop?
No. In the past, this has proven distracting for both participants and the group as a whole. To keep the experience focused and fair for everyone, spouses, partners, or friends not enrolled in the workshop may not attend.
What is the accommodation like?
The ranch has 51 individual cabins, and no two are alike. While everyone pays the same base rate, cabins vary in size and décor and are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. If you’ve attended before and would like the same cabin, early registration is recommended.
Can I share a cabin with a friend?
Yes. There are several two-bedroom cabins available. You may also choose to have your own cabin if you prefer.
What kind of food is served?
Meals are hearty, authentic ranch-style western cuisine, typically served buffet-style with multiple entrée options.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes. You’ll be asked about dietary needs during registration, and this information will be shared with the ranch kitchen so accommodations can be made.
Do I have to ride a horse?
Riding is optional. Everyone will have the opportunity to ride (daily except for Sunday), and for some photo shoots you may choose to ride to the location. These are gentle rides and not mandatory. If you’d rather not ride, there are other options to get to the photo shoots.
I haven’t ridden in years—can I still ride?
Yes. Horses and rides are well matched to participants, and wranglers are present. You’re never required to ride if you’re uncomfortable.
I’m an experienced rider—can I ride without a wrangler?
Yes, this is one of the aspects that makes Eatons’ Ranch so special. If the barn staff is comfortable with your riding ability, you may ride independently.
Is there a weight limit for riding?
While the ranch doesn’t have an official limit, approximately 250 pounds is generally considered the upper guideline to ensure horse welfare.
How physically demanding is the workshop?
The ranch spans 7,000 acres, but we won’t cover it all. Most walking is easy. Morning shoots may involve a short uphill walk (about 5–10 minutes) to a mountain pasture.
Is internet available?
Limited. Internet is available in the main house and studio, but not in the cabins. Many participants find this a welcome opportunity to unplug.
What additional expenses should I expect?
Airfare, transfers from airports other than Sheridan, alcohol, and personal sundries are not included. Otherwise, the workshop is all-inclusive.
When is the final payment due?
The remaining balance is due June 14, 2026. You’ll receive a payment link about a week beforehand. If you’d like to arrange installment payments, please contact us.
What is the cancellation policy?
We have a firm cancellation policy. A non-refundable deposit of $497 is required upon registration. The balance is due 90 days before the workshop.
In the unlikely event that a workshop must be cancelled due to inadequate enrollment, all fees and deposits are refunded in full. This determination will be made at least 30 days prior to the workshop. Cultural & Destination Specialists, Inc., d/b/a Taylor & O’Neill is not responsible for reimbursement of non-refundable airline tickets or other travel related expenses in the event of a workshop cancellation.
If you need to cancel, your spot is transferable if you find a replacement. Once your replacement is confirmed and paid, you’ll receive a refund minus a 3.5% credit card processing fee.
Refund schedule if no replacement is found:
- Cancel before June 14: deposit forfeited
- June 15 – August 13: refund minus 35%
- August 14 – August 28: refund minus 50%
- August 29 – September 12: no refund
Travel insurance is strongly recommended to protect your investment in case of cancellation or medical emergency.
Immersing yourself in your art creates space not just for making, but for connection
Workshop Includes
- 6 nights single room accommodation
- 5 full workshop days of photographic and encaustic instruction
- All studio materials and fees
- Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner daily
- Daily horseback riding (except Sunday)
- Group transportation to/from Sheridan, WY
- All taxes and gratuities to ranch staff and wranglers
This is the only workshop of its kind—where photographing horses and working in encaustic come together in one immersive experience.
You want to say Yes, but you are new to encaustic and a little apprehensive? I’ve made this easy. Before the workshop, you’ll have access to a short, beginner-friendly video series and a simple starter kit so you can get comfortable with molten beeswax and fusing at home. You’ll arrive in Wyoming prepared, confident, and ready to focus on creating—rather than learning the basics.
Join me in Wyoming
September 12 - 18, 2026
$4350
(includes $325 studio fee)
To secure your place, a non-refundable deposit of $497 is required. The balance is due 90 days before the workshop begins. If you register within 90 days of the workshop, full payment will be due at registration. Cancellation details can be found in the FAQs.
Working with beeswax and photography is full of mystery and magic. Combine this with the power and beautify of a horse and you have something simply captivating.
Who This Workshop Is For
It’s a great fit if you:
- Are drawn to photographing horses, land, and the wide-open American West
- Enjoy photography and want to deepen how you see, not just what you capture
- Have some basic familiarity with encaustic and want to explore it more fully
- Are curious about creating layered, tactile artwork using photographs and beeswax
- Value process, experimentation, and creative growth over rigid formulas
- Appreciate working in a small, supportive, and inclusive group
- Are comfortable learning through doing, observing, and conversation
- Want time and space to focus on your art without everyday distractions
Artists come to this workshop at many stages—from experienced professionals to committed creatives looking to reconnect with their work in a meaningful way.
Who This Workshop Is Not For
This workshop may not be the right fit if you:
- Are looking for a highly technical or gear-focused photography class
- Expect horses to be posed, directed, or controlled for specific shots
- Prefer fast-paced shooting with a focus on volume rather than intention
- Are not comfortable working in a group setting or sharing space with others
- Are primarily looking for a vacation rather than an immersive art experience
There’s no right or wrong here—just different learning styles and expectations. If you’re unsure whether this workshop is a good fit, I’m always happy to talk it through with you.
This Photo Encaustic Equine workshop is a production of Cultural & Destination Specialists, Inc.
For conversations and essays about photography, horses, creativity, and the places that shape how we see and make work. Visit the Media page