Alaska - Unparalleled in Wildlife and Landscapes
Alaska, The Last Frontier, Land of the Midnight Sun, acclaimed for its wildlife and nature. Photographers flock to its 571,951 square miles of land each year to experience the best that nature has to offer in North America. The vast Alaskan frontier and the African Serengeti are parallels when it comes to the diversity of wildlife and regions of unspoiled habitat. It’s not always an easy trek to reach Alaska's wilderness, but if you want to see what this special place has to offer, the trek is well worth it. Whether you are looking for moose or caribou, dall sheep and mountain goats, bears or bald eagles you won't be disappointed. Alaska has all that and more. From the tallest mountain in North America, the majestic Mt. McKinley to its ocean waters teaming with a vast variety of sea life, you will have the opportunity to see it all. Mountains and glaciers, wildlife and sea life, what more could a photographer ask for.
The Seasons
Anytime is the best time to visit Alaska. Each season has unique things to offer the serious photographer.
Dramatic snow covered mountains, dog mushing, winter sports and even snow machine adventures await those who are brave enough to face the challenge of winters icy cold grip.
Wildlife that is hard to find during the long hard winters suddenly appears in abundance during the spring, summer and fall months. The next generation of moose, caribou, bears, wolves, fox, sheep, goats and more are just beginning their struggle to survive. The large salmon runs draw bears out of their hiding places while bald eagles soar overhead. Whales, fresh from their winter calving grounds prowl the nutrient-rich waters feeding on the buffet that the ocean has to offer. Seals, sea lions, sea otters fill the bays and rocky beaches.
The fall colors across the taiga and tundra rival those of the eastern US. Wildlife is busy putting away those last few meals to help them make it through the quickly approaching winter or their long migration to the south. The creeks, streams and rivers once filled with migrating runs of salmon are now littered with the dead and dying. Bears still patrol the banks looking for the last few fish still making their way upstream or feeding in the valley bottoms on the last few berries left on the bushes. Moose and Caribou bulls are busy collecting their harems waiting for the rut to begin. With such a huge selection of photo opportunities, it’s no wonder Alaska is one of the top destinations for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
What Do I Bring?
Trying to decide what equipment to bring both clothing wise and photo wise can be a daunting task.
Let's talk about your photo equipment first. You want to be sure that your camera bag is prepared for perpetually damp conditions. A waterproof cover that covers the whole bag or a bag that’s waterproof is essential. Alaska can be a wet place in the summer, so bring equipment to protect not only your camera gear from moisture but you as well.
Your camera gear should include a sturdy tripod, lightweight yet capable of solidly supporting your camera and largest lenses. Alaska offers everything from broad, wide-angle vistas to tiny tundra flowers to animals that can only be photographed with a long, fast telephoto. You’ll need to have lenses that can cover everything. If you’re shooting digital be sure and bring plenty of memory cards and spare batteries. While these items are available in the larger cities, most of your time may be spent in the field, away from the major metropolitan areas. Having a laptop or other storage device (or two) would be an added bonus. Most importantly, make sure you know how all of your equipment works. Practice, practice, practice. Be prepared for the unexpected, and you’ll come home with images to be proud of.
Once your photo equipment is ready, spend some some time thinking about your personal equipment. Waterproof and breathable jackets, boots, overpants and other clothing will keep you warm and dry, which is the key to keeping you comfortable so you can stay outside and take pictures. Early mornings and late evenings can be cold, even in the middle of summer and the wind always seems to be blowing. If you have questions about what works best, confer with your local sporting good clothing store.
Don't forget the little things like your personal hygiene items, a hat, glasses and sunglasses, mosquito repellant, sunscreen (yes, sunscreen), medications, a personal first aid kit, a pocket tool or any other small items you think you may need.
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