The word ‘standardize’ makes me twitch here, because a simple photo on a guide cover can't, on its own, dictate an entire travel itinerary, especially when targeting lesser-known places.
An image is an spark, a starting point for imagination, but the story of a real trip is built with many more chapters, twists.
For the first trip to the southwestern United States including The Wave and these authentic places, thorough research and a good dose of personal exploration are needed, not just a visual impulse.
It's a bit like a student who sees a beautiful illustration in a book without reading the words: you get the desire, but not the deep understanding or direction.