2027 Great Grey Owl Four Day Photography Tour

2027 Great Grey Owl Wildlife Photography Tour

Dates: February 26 - March 1, 2027
Spots: 3
Cost: $3495 CDN per person + GST

A Great Grey Owl Experience Away From the Crowds

There are places where great grey owls draw photographers from across North America. This is something different.

Join me in Alberta's Boreal Forest, where we will search for great grey owls in locations I have spent years exploring and photographing. There won't be rows of photographers waiting for the same owl on the same familiar perch. Our group is limited to just three photographers, giving us the space and time to respond to whatever unfolds.

And that is part of what makes this experience so special.

Rather than leaving with photographs you've already seen made many times before, you will have the opportunity to work with the light, habitat, behaviour and moments we encounter. A hunting owl crossing an open meadow. Flight through falling snow. A quiet portrait among the trees. Or perhaps one of those moments between the moments that none of us could have planned.

Throughout the four days, I will work with you individually to help you recognize those possibilities and make photographs that feel like your own, whether you are refining advanced field skills or still building confidence with your camera.

Small group. Quiet locations. No photography crowds. Just four days in the Boreal Forest with one of its most extraordinary residents.

What to Expect:

• Tailored Fieldwork: Each day begins before sunrise to take advantage of the best morning light and observe the owls during their most active times. After a midday break, we’ll regroup in the late afternoon to make the most of the golden evening light. Each day can be tailored to your skill level, interests, and activity preferences.
• Seasonal Highlights: Late February to early March is the owls’ mating season, a time when they are often active during the day. This provides a unique opportunity to witness their behaviors and capture incredible moments.

Focus on Ethics and Safety:

Throughout the tour, ethical wildlife photography is my top priority. Your safety and the well-being of the owls are paramount. I will monitor the birds closely to ensure our presence does not cause stress or disrupt their natural activities.

Managing Expectations:

Great grey owls are elusive, even when you’re familiar with their habitat. While I will do everything possible to locate them, sightings cannot be guaranteed. When encountered, interactions may be fleeting or extend over hours, depending on the circumstances.

Tour Details:

All tours are held in the picturesque region of Lac La Biche, Alberta, Canada. Whether you’re an experienced photographer or just starting with your camera, this experience offers valuable insights and techniques to enhance your wildlife photography.

Join me for this unique opportunity to capture one of nature’s most captivating birds while improving your skills in an ethical, supportive environment!

What is covered in the cost?

• Pick up and drop off at your accommodations for tour days
• In-field photography tips and teaching
  

What is not covered in the cost?

• Transportation to and from Lac La Biche, Alberta, Canada
• Accommodations
• Meals

What level of physical activity is required?

• You will need to be able to carry your own camera gear for 100-200 meters in cold weather and uneven terrain. 

What will the weather be like?

• The weather is unpredictable. Temperatures tend to be around -30C in the morning and around -4C later in the day, but can vary greatly.
• An updated forecast will be provided closer to the actual date of the tour. 

What should you bring?

• Warm clothes and footwear to be outside up to -30C for long periods of time. Dress in layers, however, there will always be access to the tour vehicle to warm up.
• Plenty of batteries, as they drain quickly in the cold.
• A lens that has a reach of at least 400mm, 600mm is ideal.
• Tripod is optional, but is not required. 

Daily Itinerary (subject to change)

7:00 am - pick up at accommodations
7:30 - 8:00 am - arrive at first location
8:00 - 10:30 am - look for owls at first location and travel to other locations if needed
10:30 - 11:00 am - return to accommodations
2:00 pm - pick up at accommodations
2:30 - 3:00 pm - arrive at first location
3:00 - 5:30 pm - look for owls at first location and travel to other locations if needed
5:30 - 6:00 pm - return to accommodations

NOTE: While we will make every attempt to find the great grey owls during the tour there is NO guarantee that we will. Inability to find owls does not warrant a refund.