Adventuring in Alaska – Alaska photography workshop
Alaska is a special place for my wife Darlene and me. We return whenever we can, drawn to its untamed beauty and rugged landscapes. In August 2021, we had the opportunity to lead a small group of photographers on a five-day journey through some of our favorite places in the state during our Alaska photography workshop.
From coastal fjords to glacial valleys and wildlife-rich rivers, this trip had everything I love about Alaska—and more.
Exploring the Kenai Peninsula
We started our adventure on the Kenai Peninsula, hoping to photograph wildlife—especially bears. We spent the day exploring the Kenai and Russian Rivers, where we watched red-sided Coho salmon make their way upstream to spawn. Although we didn’t spot any bears, we enjoyed incredible scenery and photographed loons at Skilak Lake.
The views were stunning, with the Chugach and Kenai Mountains towering in the distance and the Turnagain Arm adding dramatic curves to the landscape as we followed the Seward Highway.
A Foggy Cruise from Seward
On day two, we boarded an excursion boat from the coastal town of Seward. As we cruised through Resurrection Bay, a light drizzle and pockets of fog gave the shoreline a dreamlike quality. We passed the Chiswell Islands, photographed bald eagles, puffins, and sea lions, and were lucky enough to see a humpback whale surface near the boat.
Later, we reached the Aialik Glacier, where we watched chunks of ancient ice calve into the sea. Harbor seals floated nearby on small icebergs, keeping a safe distance from nearby orcas.
Into the Talkeetna Mountains
Day three took us north into the Talkeetna Mountains, where jagged peaks and glacial valleys stretched in every direction. The tundra was still green, and late-season wildflowers dotted the hillsides. We visited Hatcher Pass and the historic Independence Mine, capturing wide-angle views and colorful, glacier-fed rivers.
That evening, we continued toward Talkeetna, a quirky little town filled with character and creativity. Along the way, we passed through Broad Pass, where stunted trees and beaver ponds reflected the foothills of the Alaska Range.
Denali National Park: A Foggy Day with Surprises
We reached Denali National Park on a drizzly, gray morning. Even so, the scenery was breathtaking. As we boarded the park bus, clouds moved across the peaks, revealing glimpses of the vast landscape.
During the drive, we spotted ptarmigan, caribou, and two grizzly bears in the distance. At the Eielson Visitor Center, we watched the same grizzlies graze on the tundra ridge above us. Later, they came down closer to the road, giving us the chance to capture some unforgettable shots before they disappeared over the hill.
Moose, Mountains, and a Clear Sky Farewell
Back at the park entrance, we gathered for a warm meal. We reflected on the amazing week we’d had, though two things were missing—a moose sighting and a clear view of Denali.
As luck would have it, we didn’t have to wait long. Just ten miles down the Parks Highway, we found a bull moose grazing near the road. We pulled over and photographed him—another wish fulfilled.
The next morning, the skies cleared. As we left Talkeetna, we stopped at a viewpoint and, at last, saw Denali—snow-covered, majestic, and towering above the Alaska Range. It was the perfect ending to an unforgettable trip.
Final Thoughts
This Alaska photography workshop had it all—wildlife, stunning scenery, great company, and just enough surprises to make it magical. Every photographer in the group left with full memory cards and hearts filled with memories.
✅ Call to Action
Want to experience the wild beauty of Alaska with your camera in hand?
Watch for upcoming dates on my workshops page, or contact me here to be notified about future trips.
You can also view more images from Alaska in my gallery or follow along on Instagram for new photo stories every week.
