Dates: May 28 – June 1, 2026
Duration: 5 days
Instructors: Viktoria Haack & Michelle Valberg
Photography Level: All
Fitness level: Easy
Where you’ll stay: Ocean Light Adventures vessel ‘Afterglow l’
Number of participants: 6
Cost: 6495
SOLD OUT!
‘Elements’ is a series of photography workshops crafted specifically for women and female-identifying individuals. Rooted in connection, creativity, and a deep respect for the natural world, each experience is thoughtfully designed to foster community, build confidence, and inspire personal and artistic growth.
Join us on an unforgettable photography adventure into one of Canada’s most remote and wildlife-rich landscapes. Co-led by Nikon ambassadors Michelle Valberg and Viktoria Haack, this unique experience brings you into the raw, untouched beauty of the Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary—accessible only by boat and home to one of the densest populations of coastal grizzlies in North America. It’s an intimate opportunity to immerse yourself in powerful wildlife encounters while connecting with a supportive and like-minded community of women.
Designed as a women-specific experience, this expedition offers a safe and inclusive environment to build confidence, try new things, and find your unique voice as a photographer. You’ll be surrounded by women who share your love of nature, your curiosity, and your drive to create.
Nestled 40 kilometers northeast of Prince Rupert on the British Columbia coast, the Khutzeymateen Valley is a sanctuary dedicated to the preservation of the grizzly bear. Spanning 39,000 hectares, it’s an untouched wilderness teeming with a variety of wildlife. An estimated population of 40 – 60 grizzlies thrive here, supported by the valley’s rich ecosystem of spawning salmon and mammoth Sitka spruce trees.
The area also serves as a habitat for wolves, migrating geese, ducks, harbour seals, beavers, otters, as well as orca and humpback whales. The watershed itself supports over 100 species of birds including owls, grouse, shore birds, hummingbirds, swifts, woodpeckers, and kingfishers. Uninhabited by humans and devoid of roads or campsites, the valley maintains its pristine condition, making it an ideal home for its wild residents and a perfect venue for nature and wildlife photography.
Day 1
We begin in the coastal community of Prince Rupert, where you will either embark on a early morning float plane flight that will take us to the Afterglow I. The rest of the day will be dedicated to pursuing bear-viewing opportunities.
Days 2-4
These days will be flexible to allow us to maximize each day’s bear and wildlife viewing opportunities. The daily tide schedule will largely dictate our itinerary. Expect to see a variety of animals, including black and grizzly bears, seals, river otters, many birds including eagles. Each evening, we will return to the boat to enjoy dinner and reflect on the day’s events.
Day 5
After breakfast, the float plane will arrive for your return trip to Prince Rupert.
Camera gear:
- DSLR / Mirrorless camera
- Variety of lenses
- Batteries & chargers
- Spare memory cards
- Lens cleaning supplies
- Rainproof cover for camera
- Waterproof camera bag
- Laptop if you would like to store or work on images
Other items:
- Appropriate clothing and layers for the environment and weather (A full packing list will be sent to you)
- Waterproof boots to the knee
- Durable waterproof rain jacket and pants
- Warm drink flask, water bottle, snacks
- Sunscreen & lip salve
- Sleeping bag, pillow case & sheet
- Personal toiletries
- Lightweight camping towel & face cloth
- Bug spray
- 1 small day pack or camera bag for shore excursions
- Water bottle
What’s included
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The services of a fully qualified skipper/bear guide and a cook/crew aboard Afterglow
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Return air charter by float plane to the Afterglow in Khutzeymateen
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All meals as listed on the itinerary provided
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Pre-trip zoom call with Michelle, Viktoria and the group
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In the field photography instruction by Michelle and Viktoria
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$200 Park Fee
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$25 Bear Sustainability Fee for research and conservation
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$25 Bear Viewing License fee
What’s not included
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Gratuities for crew
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Transportation between your home and Prince Rupert, BC
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Personal belongings and equipment as per “Clothing & Equipment List”
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Any meals and accommodation in Prince Rupert prior to Day 1
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Excess baggage charges
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Any extra personal expenses incurred because of weather, logistical delays, or delayed departures of chartered or scheduled aircraft
Do you have a question about this workshop? Please contact me!
Please view the Terms & Conditions for this workshop HERE.
