Homer Bald Eagle Photography Tour: Alaska’s Coastal Eagles and Winter Light

Experience one of the world’s best opportunities to photograph bald eagles up close on this photo tour and workshop. Each day, we’ll explore the coastal beauty of Homer, Alaska, surrounded by snow-covered peaks, icy bays, and hundreds of eagles soaring, diving, and perching along the shoreline.

We will photograph from private charter boats and along the coast, capturing eagles in flight, fishing, and interacting at close range. Many of our sessions take place on the water, where eagle activity is often most dramatic, and behavior unfolds just yards away. Between sessions, enjoy the charming seaside town, where fishing boats line the harbor and mountains rise straight from Kachemak Bay.

This tour is designed for photographers who want to focus on wildlife behavior and composition in dramatic Alaskan light. You’ll refine your skills with fast-moving subjects, work with dynamic backgrounds, and learn techniques for tracking birds in flight, all with expert guidance.

What Makes Homer Exceptional

• Unrivaled Eagle Density: Dozens of birds gather along the beaches, pilings, and tidal flats, creating a constant flow of action from sunrise to sunset.

• Close‑Range Encounters: Eagles frequently soar low overhead, perch within ideal shooting distance, and engage in aerial interactions that make for spectacular sequences.

• Epic Backdrops: Snow‑capped mountains, icy blue water, and soft winter light combine to elevate every frame.

• Predictable Behavior: With abundant food sources and consistent patterns, photographers enjoy reliable opportunities for both flight and perched shots.

What You’ll Photograph

• Eagles in flight, perched on driftwood, and diving for fish

• Snow-covered peaks and icy waters of Kachemak Bay

• Sea otters and other coastal wildlife

• Soft morning and evening light reflecting off the bay

• Boat-based shooting for incredible close encounters

Tour Experience

This tour is designed for photographers who want maximum time in the field and expert guidance in capturing fast action. We position ourselves in the best locations for light, wind direction, tides, and wildlife behavior, ensuring you’re ready when the action unfolds.

Each day typically includes several hours photographing from a private charter boat, with additional shoreline photography opportunities depending on conditions. You will have ample opportunities to create a diverse and compelling portfolio.

WHEN
Feb 28 –March 5, 2028 (4 spaces left)

GETTING THERE

Participants should plan to fly into Anchorage, Alaska (ANC). We recommend arriving in Anchorage at least one day before the tour begins to allow for possible weather-related delays.

From Anchorage, participants can reach Homer by renting a car and driving or by using a shuttle or bus service.

Renting a car and driving is a common option. Homer is about a 5-hour drive from Anchorage along the Seward and Sterling Highways. March conditions can include snow and icy roads, so participants should be comfortable driving in winter conditions.

Shuttle and bus services also operate between Anchorage and Homer. Travel time is typically 5 to 6 hours, depending on weather and stops along the route.

ITINERARY

Day 1 – Arrival in Homer

We will meet in the evening to introduce ourselves and review the itinerary. We’ll begin with a short slideshow presentation covering bald eagle behavior, camera settings, and strategies for photographing birds in flight to help you prepare for the days ahead. Afterward, we’ll enjoy dinner together as a group.

Days 2–5 – Daily Photography Sessions

Alaska’s weather has a mind of its own, and the best wildlife photography happens when we work with the conditions rather than against them. To give you the highest chance of exceptional images, our daily schedule remains flexible.

Each day typically includes several hours photographing from a private charter boat, where eagles are often most active. Depending on conditions, we may also photograph along the shoreline and harbor.

We may adjust start times, extend or shorten sessions, or shift locations based on wind, light, tides, and wildlife activity. These adjustments are always made with one goal in mind: placing you in the best possible conditions for safe, productive, and inspiring photography.

In the evenings, we’ll gather after dinner for classroom-style discussions and optional photo critiques. These sessions allow us to review images from the day, talk through techniques, and share ideas for improving composition and capturing wildlife behavior.

Participants should be prepared for early mornings, variable hours, and occasional weather-driven changes. Each day unfolds around the rhythms of the landscape and the behavior of the eagles.

Day 6 – Departure

GROUP SIZE

The group size is limited to 6 participants with 2 leaders. This small group format maximizes learning opportunities and allows more space to photograph wildlife comfortably.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

• Anyone with an interest in photography, from beginner to professional, is welcome on this tour. The participants should have a working knowledge of their camera, a love of nature, and enjoy the company of other people in a small group setting.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• 5 nights lodging in Homer, Alaska

• Daily photography instruction and field sessions

• Private boat charters

• Local transportation during the tour

• All park and permit fees

• Classroom time and Photo Critiques

NOT INCLUDED 

• All Airfare

• Lodging before or after the tour

• Transportation outside of the tour

• Meals and Drinks

• Tips for boat drivers

ACCOMODATIONS & TRANSPORTATION

We’ll be based in Homer for the full duration of the tour, staying at a comfortable lodge close to the harbor and local restaurants. Each day, we’ll travel short distances by van or private boat to our shooting locations, keeping logistics simple and maximizing our time in the field.

SKILL & FITNESS LEVEL REQUIREMENTS

• Participants should also be able to climb in and out of boats in sometimes slippery conditions, carrying photo gear.

• Participants should be in good health and self-sufficient.

WEATHER
This is Alaska, and the weather can change in a second. All events must be tentative and flexible. Safety is the top priority.

PRICE
$6,495 per person
Deposit: $1000 per person (this reserves your spot)
Single-Room Upgrade: $395

The final balance for this tour is due 6 months before your tour begins, with exact timing based on lodge and vendor requirements.

We’re happy to offer flexible payment options—just reach out, and we’ll work with you to find a plan that fits.

PAYMENT
Payment can be made by check to Slonina Photography. We also accept credit cards through our online shopping cart.

Click here to see Testimonials.

About the Leaders

John Slonina is a professional nature photographer with more than 35 years of experience and decades spent exploring Alaska. His deep understanding of wildlife behavior, light, and composition helps participants anticipate key moments and capture powerful, well-timed images in the field.

Jenny Bowlden is a skilled bird and wildlife photographer with more than 20 years of experience photographing nature. She has traveled extensively throughout Alaska and has co-led multiple photography tours with John. Her approachable teaching style and creative eye make the learning experience both fun and rewarding.