Dates : May 13 -19, 2027
Duration: 7 days
Instructors: Viktoria Haack & Monika Deviat
Photography Level: All
Fitness level: Easy (One longer hike which may be opted out of – see below)
Where you’ll stay: Boutique Hotel in Skidigate
Number of participants: Maximum 10
Cost: $4950 CAD + GST (Double Occupancy) (Approx $3600 USD)
$5640 CAD + GST (Single Occupancy) (Approx $4100 USD)
“Overall, this workshop was transformative, blending technical skill-building with a deep appreciation for nature and culture. I left with beautiful photographs, lasting memories, and friendships. I highly recommend this workshop to any photography enthusiast.”
Don S
Haida Gwaii is a remote archipelago off British Columbia’s north coast, where ocean, forest, and culture come together in a landscape shaped by both nature and thousands of years of Haida presence.
Haida Gwaii, meaning “Islands of the People” in the Haida language, is the ancestral homeland of the Haida Nation. These unique islands off British Columbia’s north coast are not only breathtakingly beautiful – they are deeply sacred to the Haida people, whose connection to land, sea, and story spans millennia.
Haida Gwaii is a nature photographers’ paradise with lush mossy forests, endless beaches, and an incredible array of marine and land-based wildlife species. From grand landscapes with dark skies for night photography to unique coastal textures and details, join fellow Nikon Ambassador Monika Deviat and I, to experience Haida Gwaii’s raw beauty.
What to Expect:
Our base for this workshop will be in and around Daajing Giids at a Boutique Hotel beside the ocean. There are great views and opportunities to photograph wildlife including whales, right beside our accommodation. Each day will include guided outings to capture the landscapes, moods, and stories of this unique location. Our itinerary will be tentative and subject to change as we adapt to changing weather conditions and tides. We try to be as flexible as possible to take advantage of the best conditions or subjects that nature presents.
This is not a very active workshop, but participants should be able to walk up to 2km on relatively flat ground, beach, and maintained trails. There is one hike that is 12km round-trip. mostly flat ground, some elevation at the start up to 45m. Participants may opt out of this one, understanding that they may be spending time without an instructor. There are photography options that are a walkable distance from the hotel.
A boat tour is included in this workshop. Expect to be out on this trip for 8-9 hours. The trip will include a stop at one of the southern islands. During our time on the water we will be looking for wildlife opportunities including whales, sea lions, and eagles.
Diverse Photography Opportunities:
Haida Gwaii is an ideal place to approach photography as a way of connecting with land and story. In Haida worldview, everything in nature is connected and meaningful and the boundaries between person and place are fluid. From abstract forest scenes and mist-draped beaches to tidepools, eagles, and expansive seascapes, the islands offer endless creative possibilities. Depending on the conditions, you’ll be free to explore subjects and styles that suit your interests – whether that’s intimate details at low tide, wide seascapes, minimalist scenes, or working with changing light and weather.
Cultural and Natural Connections:
We’ll have the opportunity to engage with the living culture of Haida Gwaii through experiences such as visiting the Haida Heritage Centre and taking part in a Haida-led boat trip. These encounters offer insight into the Haida people’s deep connection to the land, their history, art, and ongoing stewardship -helping us approach our time on the islands with greater understanding and respect.
Technical and Creative Guidance:
As we move through these varied environments, we will offer support in both technical and creative aspects of your photography. We will be on hand to help with a range of techniques – such as long exposures, night photography, focus stacking, and exposure blending – based on your interests and goals.
Safety, Ethics, and Respect for Nature:
Safety, ethics, and respect for nature are key priorities in this workshop. They help ensure that wildlife remains undisturbed and wild, while participants stay safe and comfortable in often remote and sensitive environments. Following these principles allows us to honour the land, its cultural significance, and preserve it for future generations.
Weather Considerations:
May in Haida Gwaii can bring a beautiful variety of conditions – sunshine and mist, showers and shifting light. Mornings may be crisp, with temperatures typically ranging from 5°C to 13°C. Come prepared for mixed weather, as these conditions often yield the most evocative images.
As nature photographers, we regard nature as a collaborator rather than a commodity. It offers an endless source of inspiration – rich with moments, details, and surprises that can spark creativity. When we approach the natural world with openness, curiosity, and deep respect, we begin to notice the subtle shifts, the quiet beauty, and the stories the land has to tell.
Escape to Nature photography workshops are designed to help you connect more deeply with the natural world. Led by Canadian-based Nikon Ambassadors Viktoria Haack and Monika Deviat, these small-group experiences take place in wild and inspiring locations. We focus on nurturing each participant’s personal artistic vision and individual connection to the landscape, while offering guidance in photographing nature, landscapes, and wildlife. With an emphasis on ethical practices, skill-building, and creative exploration, our workshops offer meaningful opportunities to grow as a photographer and to cultivate a deeper appreciation for the environment.
The most convenient way to reach Haida Gwaii is by flying into Sandspit Airport (YZP) from Vancouver. We will arrange a group pick-up from the airport and provide participants with detailed arrival information closer to the workshop date.
Camera gear:
- DSLR / Mirrorless camera
- Variety of lenses
- Tripod
- Filters
- Batteries & chargers
- Spare memory cards
- Remote shutter release
- Lens cleaning supplies
- Camera bag
- Laptop if you would like to store or work on images
Other items:
- Headlamp
- Appropriate clothing and layers for the environment
- Rain gear – pants, jackets
- Hiking boots, rubber boots, hiking pole etc
- Warm drink flask, water bottle, snacks
- Sunscreen
- Hand/toe warmers
- Bug spray
- Medication
- Personal items
What’s included
- Itinerary planning, photography guiding and instruction
- Accommodations at boutique hotel in Skidigate
- Limited single occupancy rooms
- Double occupancy
- Ferry fees
- Transportation during the workshop
- Boat tour
- Permits and fees for any parks
- Haida Heritage Centre trip
- Inspiration & fun!
What’s not included
- Transportation to and from Haida Gwaii
- Personal expenses
- Meals
- Travel / medical insurance
Haida Gwaii is a remote and remarkable archipelago that offers unique experiences. The communities are small and close knit, and the people are friendly and welcoming. While the island’s isolation is part of its charm, it also brings certain challenges – goods must be imported, healthcare is basic, and access to some services may be limited.
As visitors, it’s important to remember that we are guests on this land. Respect for both the land and its people are essential.
Before registering for the workshop, here are a few important things to know:
- All participants will be required to sign the Haida Pledge.
- Restaurants are limited, but the food is delicious. The pubs and food trucks we visit will have tasty fares, too. Dietary restrictions most likely cannot be accommodated. Please contact us if you have any questions about this.
- Grocery stores are available every day, but close early.
- Island life has island time. Some business and restaurants may simply choose to be closed on a certain day, even though their business hours indicate they will be open.
- We may need to rely on groceries for most lunches, and sometimes for breakfast and dinner.
- Your accommodations will have kitchenettes with a mini fridge, microwave, kettle, dishes, cutlery, and a sink.
- Space is limited in vehicles, please plan to only bring your one camera bag, extra layers, and a small snack/lunch bag on excursions.
- There is a boat tour included and it is a full day.
- There is one 12km hike included, but participants can opt out – there are many photography opportunities near our hotel.
- Due to limited rooms and configuration for double and single occupancy, if you register without a roommate and we are unable to pair you with another participant of the same gender, a single supplement fee will apply. This additional fee covers the cost of the room that would otherwise be shared. We will make every effort to match solo participants with roommates, but cannot guarantee a match. We can also try to offer the single supplement spot to another participant. If no suitable roommate is available by 90 days prior to the workshop, the single supplement charge of 665 CAD + GST & Fees will be added to your final invoice.If you book with a roommate and they are no longer able to attend, we will do our best to find another participant of the same gender to share the room with you. Please understand that you should not expect to have the room to yourself unless we are unable to fill the spot. The single supplement fee will apply.
Do you have a question about this workshop? Please contact me!
“I spent quite a bit of time deciding on a workshop to do this year, and when I found out that Viktoria and Monika were running a workshop in Haida Gwaii, I was in! Haida Gwaii is an absolutely gorgeous location, and is not crawling with endless tourists. Most days in the field we either saw nobody or just a few individuals. Viktoria and Monika were able to provide an action packed schedule while adjusting to unpredictable weather conditions. They each bring your own identity and style to the instruction they provide, which makes things much better than having just one leader. Both are very clear in describing why they do things the way they do. They also managed to fit in time to learn about Haida history and culture, which greatly enriched the experience. I never thought I would want to do the same workshop twice, but this one has me thinking.”
Gord T
“I recently attended a photography workshop in Haida Gwaii led by Monika Deviat and Viktoria Haack and it was an incredible experience. The stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife provided the perfect backdrop for learning. Monika and Viktoria are not only talented photographers but also passionate educators who fostered a supportive environment, helping me enhance my skills.
The cultural immersion with local Haida artists and elders added depth to the experience, allowing me to connect with the essence of Haida Gwaii.
Overall, this workshop was transformative, blending technical skill-building with a deep appreciation for nature and culture. I left with beautiful photographs, lasting memories, and friendships. I highly recommend this workshop to any photography enthusiast!”
DJ Stanley
“Haida Gwaii has been on my list for years so when I saw “Escape To Nature Haida Gwaii” with Monika and Viktoria, I was pretty excited!
I booked right away as I know these workshops can fill up quickly.
From the moment we landed until the time we departed everyone and everything was amazing. The accomodation was great (the attached bistro was wonderful with tasty treats and bigger items on the menu). Plus there were some pretty good local restaurants and pubs.
Everything was well organized with maximum time spent out shooting. The scenery is spectacular and wildlife is abundant. Whales, sea lions, eagles and more.
I highly recommend this workshop!”
Isobel S
“Haida Gwaii is a magical place all on it’s own, however this experience was enhanced by Viktoria and Monika’s weekend long immersive workshop.
Please view the Terms & Conditions for this workshop HERE.
