General

What skill level do I need? Do I need to have professional equipment?
You don't need professional camera equipment for our tours. We welcome all levels of photographers, from beginners to professionals, and our tours are designed to accommodate a wide range of camera equipment. Our experienced guides will help you make the most of your photography experience, regardless of the gear you bring.

How many participants are on each tour?
Depending on the tour, our workshops are intentionally kept small to provide a personalized experience. Our low student-to-instructor ratio ensures that everyone receives individual guidance and attention.

What if you are nervous about your first tour?
Many first‑time participants feel the same way, and it’s completely normal. A photo tour isn’t a technical boot camp — it’s a guided field experience designed to help people enjoy photography at whatever level they’re currently at. You don’t need advanced skills, expensive gear, or years of experience. If you can operate your camera at a basic level and enjoy being outdoors, you’ll fit in right away. Instruction is always optional, hands‑on, and tailored to each person. You can ask as many questions as you want, or simply shoot quietly and take in the scenery. No one is judged on ability, and there’s no pressure to keep up.

What are the other participants and instructors like?
The group dynamic is one of the biggest surprises for new participants. Most people who join a photo tour are friendly, down‑to‑earth, and excited to be in beautiful places with others who share the same interest. Groups tend to be a mix of beginners, hobbyists, and experienced photographers, and everyone learns from each other. It’s a supportive environment where people help one another, share ideas, and celebrate each other’s images.

Many participants end up building genuine, long‑lasting friendships with both the instructors and fellow travelers; connections that often continue well beyond the tour itself. For us, we treat everyone like family; that is why we have so much repeat business.

Is lodging included?
Lodging is included on most of our photo tours, and we make the process as easy as possible for participants. We typically choose a hotel that’s close to the airport so arrival day is simple and stress‑free. Whenever possible, we select properties that offer an airport shuttle and have a good restaurant either on‑site or within easy walking distance. It gives everyone a comfortable place to settle in, meet the group, and kick things off before we head into the field.

Is the number of spaces left on the website accurate?
We keep the number of spaces remaining on each tour accurately updated on the website, and we adjust it as soon as a registration comes in. In the rare situation where we’re traveling and briefly unable to update the site, the shopping cart will automatically prevent an over‑booking.

What if a tour is sold out and I want to join?
When a tour is marked sold out, it means all available spaces have been taken, and the shopping cart will no longer allow additional registrations. However, spots do occasionally open due to cancellations or schedule changes. If you’re interested in a sold‑out tour, the best thing to do is contact us right away so we can check the current status and, if possible, add you to the waitlist. Most of our tours do eventually sell out, so reaching out promptly gives you the best chance of getting in if a space becomes available.

Do you provide transportation, or can I drive my own car?
Transportation is provided on the majority of our tours, so in most cases, you will not need to rent a car. Please review the individual tour page for specific details, as there may be exceptions.

If you are bringing your own car, you are welcome to use it during the tour. Most participants choose to ride with us for the daily photography outings, then use their own vehicle when we move between towns. If you prefer to drive your own car for the entire tour, that is fine too. Just let us know so we can coordinate meeting points with the group.

Is travel insurance important?
Traveling is always unpredictable. Travel insurance protects you against the unexpected. If you were to get sick, injured, or have a medical emergency, would you be able to accept the financial loss? Travel insurance can help you with those concerns and more. I recommend you check out Insure My Trip. They will give you quotes for several different companies.

What do I pack or not pack?
We send a specific packing list for each trip. Here are some things you DO NOT need to pack: suits, dress shoes, and high heels. Yes, we have had people bring these things.

Do you have any travel tips?
Click here to see my article on that subject.

Photo Tour & Workshop Specific

What is your favorite thing about the tours?
I enjoy the participants the most.

Our shared passions for nature and photography bring us together, creating a sense of friendship that's truly special. Witnessing awe-inspiring moments and being able to share them with like-minded individuals is an extraordinary experience. We've shared countless laughs and funny adventures that still bring a smile to my face whenever I think about them. I consider each participant a friend, and I often find myself reflecting on how fortunate I am to be part of this community.

Alaska Bears

Are bears dangerous?
Yes, all wild animals can be dangerous, but bear attacks are rare. It’s unlikely to encounter a bear attack when there are three or more individuals present, and incidents involving four or more people are virtually unheard of.

We also carry bear spray, and one of the guides carries a gun. We have never used either one. The camp hasn’t used either one in 30+ years.

I have been photographing bears for several years, and I have never felt any danger. I have decades of bear experience, so I am always watching their behavior. Bears have a lot of interesting behaviors, which lead to incredible photographs.

What is unique about your bear tour?
One of the biggest advantages of our bear tour is flexibility. Bear activity can change from year to year, week to week, and even day to day, often depending on where the salmon are running.

Because we can access different areas by boat and on land, we are not limited to photographing in one location. If bear activity is better somewhere else, we can move. This gives us a better chance of finding more bears and photographing a variety of behaviors and interactions.

Click here to read my article on bears.

This article covers the different types of Alaska bear photography experiences, including guided and independent options for a range of budgets.

How many bears have you seen in one day?
We usually see several bears each day, and our record is 35 in a single day. Of course, wildlife is never guaranteed, and bear activity can change quickly depending on factors such as the salmon run. A location that has several bears one week may have very few the next. That is why having access to multiple locations and knowing where the bears are most active at that time can make such a difference.

Alaska Land and Sea

What makes this trip special?
Alaska is truly exceptional. Twenty years ago, I fulfilled a lifelong dream by visiting this remarkable place, and it exceeded all my expectations. Inspired by that experience, I spent the last decade meticulously crafting a tour that showcases the very best of Alaska, a journey that's nothing short of exhilarating.

This tour is the result of over 20 years of research, involving personal investments exceeding $25,000 in solo trips and explorations of top-notch boat companies and bear lodges. It encapsulates the essence of Alaska in four distinct days, spread across two different locations, each on a private boat.

One location offers breathtaking encounters with eagles, sea otters, and stunning scenery, allowing our groups to capture thousands of eagle and otter images daily. Additionally, we have access to a nearby beach teeming with eagles and their nests.

The other location is equally spectacular, as we venture into the renowned Kenai Fjords National Park. Here, we explore glaciers and look out for majestic Humpback Whales, Fin Whales, and Killer Whales (Orcas). Both places are a haven for tufted puffins, horned puffins, sea lions, seals, and various other marine creatures, providing fantastic opportunities for landscape photography.

The beauty of our tour lies in the small, private boats we use. It grants us the privilege of getting close to wildlife and accessing areas that larger boats simply can't reach. Most of the wildlife encounters are so close that they fill the frame with a long lens (400 mm or more). 

Our journey also includes visits to multiple glaciers. The thrill of Alaska lies in its unpredictability – you never know what surprise awaits around the corner or might cross your path.

Alaska Aurora (Northern Lights)

How often do you see the aurora, and do you guarantee it?
While we don't provide a guarantee of witnessing the aurora, our approach significantly increases the likelihood of experiencing this breathtaking natural phenomenon. We carefully select prime locations and schedule our trips during the optimal times of the year, maximizing our chances of observing the aurora in all its splendor.

Number of years photographing the aurora: 8

Nights the aurora has been out and active: Every single night the aurora has been out when we were there, regardless of the solar cycles.

What’s the catch? Cloud Cover. The aurora could be active, but the clouds can block some or all of the view.

We have done eight trips (seven nights each) = 56 Nights. Out of the 56 nights, we have lost five.

Five of the eight tours had no cloud cover. On one of the eight tours, we lost one night. On two of the eight trips, we lost two nights.

So every night you have a 92% chance of success. That’s every night. So you should see the Northern Lights several times each trip.

Why do you go in March?
This is when the Aurora is most active. It is also one of the best months for a clear sky.

What is the temperature like in March?
Daily high temperatures: 17°F to 34°F, rarely falling below -3°F or exceeding 47°F.

Daily low temperatures:  -5°F to 10°F, rarely falling below -26°F or exceeding 25°F.

Let’s be honest, it can get cold. It is low humidity, so the numbers are not as cold as they seem, but proper dress is required. We also try to go later in the month, as it is warmer in late March than early March. We provide a suggested equipment and clothing list before the trip.

What is your knowledge of astronomy?
For me personally, very little, but that is why I have a co-leader on this tour. John Chumack is an expert astronomer and astro photographer. He has done work with NASA, Time Magazine, and several other publications.

Why is Fairbanks, Alaska, one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights?
Fairbanks’ location is ideal for northern lights viewing because it is under the “Auroral Oval,” a ring-shaped zone over the far north where aurora activity is concentrated. Additionally, Fairbanks’ low precipitation and distance from coastal areas contribute to consistently clear nights. All combined, these variables make the Fairbanks region an outstanding destination for possible aurora borealis viewing. There are some other places under the belt, like Iceland, but they have high humidity, so the clouds are often in the way.

Great Smoky Mountains

When do you visit the Smoky Mountains?
I have visited both in spring and fall. Both seasons have their pros and cons.

April is the height of spring. Rivers and waterfalls are flowing at peak rates. The dogwoods are out and look incredible. It is also the peak time for wildflowers. We also see lots of black bears and turkeys. White-tailed deer are also around, but do not have large antlers this time of year.

October brings peak fall color, and the landscapes look incredible. We typically see fewer bears than in April, but it’s the start of the rut for white-tailed deer, and the bucks have impressive antlers. The main drawback in October is traffic during peak foliage. Cades Cove can be especially busy on weekends, so I avoid it on Saturdays and Sundays.

What are the photo conditions like in the Smokies?
The Smokies have classic mountain layers, morning fog, flowing rivers, and soft light. In April, fresh greens and mist create great conditions along the rivers and ridgelines. In October, fall color and crisp air add contrast and depth. Both seasons offer strong opportunities for landscapes throughout the park.

Maine Coast Trips

Downeast vs Acadia National Park

I have two different tours along the Maine Coast: Acadia and Downeast (Bold Coast), Maine. Both are beautiful coastal locations for landscape photography.

What are the differences between the two?

Puffin boat trips:
Acadia: 1 Puffin Trip
Downeast: 2 Puffin Trips

Whales and lighthouses by boat:
Acadia: One sunset landscape photography tour
Downeast: We have a private boat tour that takes us out to see multiple lighthouses, seals, eagles, and a chance of seeing whales.

Distance from Bangor Airport:
Acadia: 1 hour
Downeast: 2 hours

Lighthouses:
Acadia: 1
Downeast: 3+

Shopping:
Acadia: Yes, but not part of the tour
Downeast: No

Countries:
Acadia: United States only
Downeast: We visit Campobello Island (Canada). You need a passport.

Time of Year:
Acadia: We go in June before tourist season kicks in
Downeast: June or July, but it is not that crowded

Landscape Photography: Both are really great

Wildlife Photography: The Downeast trip is better

Summary:
Acadia National Park is more accessible and touristy. There are multiple gift shops, great restaurants, and gas stations. Acadia has world-famous locations like Cadillac Mountain, which you can drive up for sunrise. 

Downeast has more wildlife and more boat rides. It is a little harder to reach since it is farther from the airport. It is also less touristy. Gas stations, supermarkets, restaurants, and ATM’s are less common than Acadia. This trip visits Campabello Island in Canada, which requires a passport. This trip also features Quoddy Head Lighthouse, which is the Easternmost Point in the U.S.

Wildlife: All trips go to the same island for the puffins. For the Downeast trip, we visit the island twice and add a whale watch.

This is all weather permitting.

Florida

We visit several locations in Florida. I have been photographing wildlife there for several decades.

Snakes: They are around, but we hardly ever see them. Average one per trip.

Alligators: At some locations, we see several. They are all over Florida. Alligators can be dangerous, and most are afraid of people. We just walk around them at a safe distance. They are fun to watch and photograph.

Mosquitoes: They are not a problem in the winter.

Why is Florida great for bird photography?
Florida is a haven for bird photography enthusiasts, and there are several compelling reasons why it's such a fantastic destination. One notable aspect is the remarkable proximity that can be achieved with the birds. Many of them seem almost indifferent to human presence, allowing for close-up shots from just a few feet away.

Florida's appeal for bird photography extends beyond accessibility. The state boasts a rich biodiversity and hosts many unique bird species in substantial numbers. Found here are Roseate Spoonbills, Burrowing Owls, Purple Gallinules, Snail Kites, and nesting Bald Eagles. These captivating species provide abundant opportunities for capturing stunning and distinctive photographs.

Is this a good trip for me?
If you love wildlife and bird photography, yes. If not, I recommend you skip it.

Why winter?
The birds are in large numbers and less spread out. The average temperature is in the 70s. No bugs.

Yellowstone and Grand Teton

I have been photographing both Yellowstone and Grand Teton and the surrounding areas for 30+ years.

Why Grand Teton National Park?
In my own experience, I've found that the wildlife in the Tetons is equally impressive when compared to Yellowstone. In fact, for certain species such as Moose, it surpasses Yellowstone. Additionally, the Tetons offer a more striking display of fall colors and reflections.

What is your favorite time to visit?

January: Yellowstone in the winter is incredible, and this is the best month to visit for winter photography.

September:
Fall color and elk and moose are in the rut, which leads to dramatic behavior. The crowds are greatly diminished.

Why not summer?
Peak crowds, less wildlife, and hot weather. If there is a roadside bear, traffic can be backed up for several hours.

Why not October?
It is past peak for fall color in most of the park, and a good portion of the park facilities are closed or closing. There is a high probability of road closures also due to snowstorms. The advantage is lower-priced lodging and fewer people.

The Canadian Rockies

Are the hikes in the Canadian Rockies difficult?
Most outings are easy to moderate. We choose locations with strong photo potential that don’t require long or steep climbs. You’ll have plenty of time to explore, compose, and shoot without feeling rushed.

What kind of weather should I expect?
The Rockies can shift quickly, even in summer and fall. Expect cool mornings, mild afternoons, and the possibility of changing light. This variety often leads to great photography conditions.

Do you photograph the classic spots in Banff and Jasper?
Yes. We visit well-known locations like Moraine Lake, Peyto Lake, and Maligne Lake, along with quieter areas that offer great compositions with fewer people.

Are the lakes really that blue?
They are. The color comes from glacial rock flour suspended in the water, and it looks even better in person. Weather and light can change the shade, which makes each visit unique.

How long are the drives between locations?
Banff and Jasper are connected by the Icefields Parkway, one of the most scenic roads in the world. We make regular stops for wildlife, waterfalls, and mountain views, so the drives feel like part of the experience.

New England Fall

When is the peak?
The peak is always subject to change, but 95 % of the time it is October.

First week: Northern Maine, NH, Vermont, Berkshires

Middle of the month: Acadia, Quabbin (MA), Lakes Region, NH, Southern Maine and NH, Eastern MA, Southern VT

Late October: Southern CT, Coastal MA (Cape Cod, but not great for foliage)

Suppose the peak is early or late?
Not everything turns at once. There are always a few good areas if you know the area very well and are willing to drive. Remember that the overall peak usually occurs north to south.

There are two exceptions:
a.) Higher elevations turn first
b.) Coastal areas turn later (warm ocean breeze delays foliage)

The Southwest: Bryce, Zion, Arches, Canyonlands, plus Sedona, Monument Valley, and Page

Are the hikes too challenging on your Southwest tours?
No. We design our routes for a range of fitness levels. With two guides, you’ll always have options and support so you can enjoy the locations at a pace that works for you.

Why do you visit in late October and November?
These times offer great light, fall color, comfortable temperatures, and a quieter experience.

Do you visit The Narrows in Zion?
Yes. Water levels in November are usually low, and we offer two choices. One guide leads a group into The Narrows, and the other takes a dry trail along the riverbank with classic fall color and canyon scenery.

What about crowds?
During most of the year, these places can be crowded, but late October and November are much calmer, which helps with photography and timing.

Do you work with Navajo guides in Monument Valley?
Yes. Local Navajo guides lead us through restricted areas and share insight into the land and culture. The outings include multiple photo stops with easy walking, plus sunrise and sunset opportunities.

Do I need any special gear for slot canyons or desert locations?
No technical gear is needed. Good hiking shoes, layers, and basic camera protection are usually enough. We send a full packing list before the trip.