Hopeful I am not to late to get my two cents' worth in.

I have done almost exacly what you plan to do a number of times. In my mind the only reason that Las Vegas exists is to provide access to the desert and its photo ops. I am amazed that no one has mentioned the following three possibilities:

MONUMENT VALLEY Absolutely my A number one stop anytime that I am in the southwest. The photo ops are endless and spectacular. Unfortunately, it is a long haul from Las Vegas. I mention it only because I love it so much.

ZION N.P. A mere 3 hours out of Las Vegas and a straight run up I-15 and over Rte. 9. The beauty of Zion is that if you move around and keep your wits about you, quality shooting can go on all day. Scenics and wildlife abound, and there is always the old ghost town of Grafton where numerous movies have been filmed, including Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Grafton is not far off of Rte. 9 a few miles before you hit the entrance to Zion.

BRYCE CANYON N.P. Only about a hundred miles beyond Zion, Bryce will give you the most unbelievable sunrise and sunset shots that you have ever taken.

If you like any of these and want specifics, let me know.