Unblinking Majesty: Overcast Bald Eagle Portrait

After what felt like an endless journey to my Ultimate Brown Bears of Alaska Workshop—from Montreal to Vancouver, then on to Anchorage, and finally touching down in Kodiak, Alaska—I was more than ready to settle into my hotel room. The travel day had been long, but the crisp Alaskan air beckoned. A brisk 45-minute walk to the grocery store seemed like a good way to stretch my legs and grab some essentials.

Bags in hand, I made the 45-minute trek back, eager to unwind. As I closed the curtains, a fresh cup of hot ginger tea in hand, I spotted a magnificent bald eagle perched regally on a garbage dumpster behind the hotel. What struck me immediately was its pristine condition; most city eagles look dirty and ratty.

My fatigue instantly vanished, replaced by a surge of excitement. I quickly grabbed my camera, knowing this was a moment I couldn't miss with the soft, overcast evening light. I spent a few minutes patiently waiting, hoping for that perfect shot with the Eagle staring directly at me. I made sure to stop down to f/22 to ensure both its piercing eyes and powerful beak were tack sharp. It was an incredible welcome to Kodiak, a truly unforgettable start to my Alaskan adventure.

American Bald Eagle UNBLINKING MAJESTY (Hailiaeetus leucocephalus, Pygarge a tete blanche, Pigargo americano BAEA) from my Ultimate Coastal Brown Bears of Katmai adventure workshop in Alaska. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a9 III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS Lens @800mm ISO 6,400, f/22 @ 1/640s. Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Beyond the Bears of Katmai: Long-Tailed Duck

While the main event of my Ultimate Brown Bears of Alaska Workshop in June is, of course, the magnificent Coastal Brown bears (also known as Grizzly Bears), the Alaskan wilderness often offers surprises. During a short boat excursion around a small, rocky island, our group had some truly excellent opportunities to photograph Surf Scoters, with their distinctive, colourful bills, Harlequin Ducks and both Tufted and Horned Puffins. While everyone was happily preoccupied with capturing the antics of a playful sea otter, I caught a glimpse of something unique along the Katmai coast in June: a Long-tailed Duck (formerly known as an Oldsquaw) in beautiful breeding plumage as it was taking off from the water. These ducks are stunning, especially the males with their elongated tail feathers and striking plumage.

Long-tailed Ducks are a fascinating species, well-adapted to the cold northern waters. While they breed across the Arctic and Subarctic, including vast areas of Alaska and Canada, they are most often encountered in coastal marine waters during migration and winter. Their impressive diving abilities, reaching depths of over 200 feet, and their complex moulting patterns—boasting three distinct plumages throughout the year—make them a truly unique and beautiful subject for any birder or photographer.

In Alaska, when you're there for one spectacular creature, Mother Nature always has more surprises in store if you're ready to look for them.

Long-tailed Duck Take-off (Clangula hyemalis, Harelde kakawi, Pato havelda, LTDU) from my Ultimate Coastal Brown Bears of Katmai adventure workshop in Alaska. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a9 III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS Lens @800mm ISO 1,600, f/8 @ 1/5,000s. Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Bald Eagle Shadow Huntress & Sony X Royal Photo Montreal Masterclass with Christopher Dodds

Thrilled to share a glimpse of a powerful new print! I've just meticulously reprocessed this image of a hunting bald eagle, preparing it for a stunning 40" x 60" print for a client. This never-before-seen shot was taken in 2019 with a Sony a9 and the incredible Sony 400mm f/2.8 lens, and it's part of the same captivating series as "Bald Eagle Shadow Huntress" (click to view).

Capture Eagles Like a Pro: Join My Sony Photography Masterclass in Montréal!

Want to elevate your photography and try out top-tier gear? Join me tomorrow, July 12th, in Montreal for a Sony x Royal Photo Masterclass! For only $20, you'll gain a deeper understanding of photography, have the chance to experiment with the same Sony equipment that I use every day, and receive a $20 gift card back, making your experience truly invaluable (and free!). I'm looking forward to connecting with you there!

American Bald Eagle SHADOW HUNTER (Hailiaeetus leucocephalus, Pygarge a tete blanche, Pigargo americano BAEA) from my BALD EAGLE WORKSHOP in Kachemak Bay (near Homer), Alaska ©Christopher Dodds All Rights Reserved. Sony Alpha a9 Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 400mm f/2.8 G Master OSS Lens  ISO 4,000, f/4 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Atlantic Puffin Flying with Fish at Sunrise

Last-Minute Opening: Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Photography Workshop in Quebec!

Dreaming of capturing stunning images of Atlantic Puffins? Due to a couple of last-minute cancellations, two exclusive rooms have opened up for our highly sought-after Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Workshop in Quebec. Join us from August 10-13, 2025, for an unforgettable photography experience.

Your Island Retreat

Imagine spending four incredible days "nesting" in a beautifully restored lighthouse keeper's home on a tiny island. You'll be right in the heart of a bustling wildlife haven, surrounded by thousands of Atlantic Puffins, Razorbills, Murres, and Guillemots. Keep an eye out for majestic Grey Seals and even various species of whales that frequent these waters.

Unlike typical crowded photography trips, convenience is key here. Your comfortable accommodations, featuring delicious gourmet meals, are just 200 meters from where we'll be photographing the puffins. That means more valuable time behind your lens and less time commuting!

Capture Puffins at Their Peak

This workshop is perfectly timed for prime puffin action. The first two weeks of August are when these charming birds are most active, diligently bringing back impressive catches of fish to their growing pufflings. This is your chance to build a stunning portfolio of unique and intimate images, showcasing these charismatic birds during a crucial stage of their breeding cycle.

Master Your Bird Photography Skills

Beyond just incredible photo opportunities, this workshop is designed to significantly enhance your photography skills. You'll delve into every aspect of bird photography, from understanding avian behaviour and mastering exposure and composition to conquering the challenging art of birds-in-flight photography. Our expert guidance and masterful hands-on instruction will ensure you return home not only with breathtaking images but also with a deeper understanding and improved techniques that will benefit all your future photography adventures.

Don't miss this rare chance to immerse yourself in Atlantic Puffin country and refine your skills. These last two spots will go quickly!

Ready to seize this incredible adventure? Contact us today to secure your place!

Atlantic Puffin Golden Light and background with fish (Fratercula arctica, Macareux moine, Frailecillo atlántico, ATPU) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Workshop, Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a9 Mark III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @1,200mm. ISO 12,800, f/8 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Razorbill in flight with beak full of fish

Last-Minute Opening: Your Chance to Photograph Atlantic Puffins in Quebec!

Sometimes, the stars align just right! If you've been dreaming of capturing the charm of Atlantic Puffins with your camera, this is your moment.

Due to a last-minute cancellation, a couple of highly sought-after spots have opened up for my Deluxe Atlantic Puffins Workshops! These workshops, which are otherwise completely sold out, offer an unparalleled opportunity to photograph these incredible birds on Quebec's picturesque Lighthouse Island (Île aux Perroquets).

Imagine spending four days, from August 10 to 13, 2025, immersed in the stunning natural beauty of the island. This timing is absolutely perfect, as the puffin babies have grown and are demanding more and more food until they fledge, which means you'll have the absolute best chance to capture those iconic shots of puffins with their mouths full of fish!

While puffins are the stars, Île aux Perroquets is also home to a vibrant array of other seabirds. You'll also have the chance to photograph Razorbills, Black Guillemots, Common Murres, and various shorebirds, passerines and gulls. It's truly a bird photographer's paradise!

Don't miss out on this unexpected opportunity to join an exclusive group and create lasting memories and incredible photographs while staying in a renovated lighthouse and eating gourmet food!

CLICK HERE to learn more and sign up

〰️

CLICK HERE to learn more and sign up 〰️

Razorbill in flight with Fish (Alca torda, Petit Pingouin, Alca común, RAZO) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Lighthouse Island Workshop Adventure. Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony Alpha a1 Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @1,200mm. ISO 2,500, f/8 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Atlantic Puffin Out of the Fog

In my previous post (Atlantic Puffin in flight with fish & Atlantic Puffin Photography Workshop Update), I shared our initial disappointment when a thick blanket of clouds and fog obscured the glorious morning light we'd hoped for during one of last summer's Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Workshops. However, as often happens on foggy mornings when the temperature climbs above the dew point, things began to change, and they did change quickly!

Shortly after capturing those first foggy images, the fog started to lift. The sun's golden light broke through, while hundreds of Puffins began returning to their burrows, their beaks laden with fish for their hungry young. It was a moment that gifted us with an abundance of unforgettable images to complete our already bursting portfolios.

The dew point is a crucial atmospheric measurement, representing the temperature at which air becomes saturated with water vapour and condensation begins. When the air temperature cools down to meet the dew point, the invisible water vapour in the air transforms into tiny liquid water droplets. If this condensation happens at ground level, we experience it as fog. As the sun rises and warms the air, the temperature often climbs above the dew point, causing these tiny water droplets to evaporate back into vapour, and the fog dissipates, revealing clearer skies and, as in our case, incredible photographic opportunities.

Atlantic Puffin Out of the Fog with fish (Fratercula arctica, Macareux moine, Frailecillo atlántico, ATPU) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Workshop Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a9 Mark III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens @600mm ISO 3,200, f/4 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Atlantic Puffin in flight with fish & Atlantic Puffin Photography Workshop Update

The air was thick with anticipation during my Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Workshop, but a hush fell over the group as we realized our much-hoped-for golden sunrise was a no-show, replaced by a soft blanket of fog and an overcast sky. For many, a "perfect" sunrise is the holy grail of wildlife photography.

But here's a little secret: sometimes, imperfect conditions lead to the most perfect moments.

As the fog rolled in, something magical happened. Hundreds of Atlantic Puffins, undeterred by the muted light, began their graceful descent, wings beating steadily, beaks laden with silvery fish. They weren't waiting for the sun; they were focused on their mission: feeding their hungry pufflings nestled deep in their burrows.

And that's when the true beauty of the scene unfolded. The monochromatic backdrop, with its soft, diffused light, made their vibrant, almost neon-orange beaks truly pop. Every feather, every subtle movement, became incredibly defined against the muted tones. It was a masterclass in how different light can reveal different dimensions of a subject.

This is the essence of the Deluxe Atlantic Puffins Workshop: learning to see beyond the obvious and capture the unique beauty in every moment, no matter the weather. It's about understanding puffin behaviour, anticipating their movements, and mastering your camera to create stunning images in a variety of conditions.

Your Chance to Experience the Magic

Due to a recent cancellation, a couple of rare spots have become available for the otherwise sold-out Deluxe Atlantic Puffins Workshop, August 10-13, 2025. If you're ready to embrace all that a puffin morning can offer – sun-drenched or wonderfully foggy – and create images that truly stand out, this is your chance.

Ready to see how a little fog can lead to incredible photographs? Click the image to learn more or sign up.

Atlantic Puffin Foggy Flight with fish (Fratercula arctica, Macareux moine, Frailecillo atlántico, ATPU) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Workshop Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 1.4X Teleconverter @840mm ISO 1,250, f/5.6 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Atlantic Puffin Pink Sky at Night

Last-Minute Opening: Your Chance to Photograph Atlantic Puffins in Quebec!

Sometimes, things align perfectly! I'm thrilled to announce that, due to a last-minute cancellation, a few coveted spots have opened up for my otherwise sold-out Deluxe Atlantic Puffins Workshops on Quebec's picturesque Lighthouse Island from August 10 to 13, 2025.

Not just any puffin workshop; it's an opportunity to visit what I believe is the best place in the world to photograph Atlantic Puffins. Imagine spending your days on a charming island, surrounded by breathtaking coastal scenery, all while capturing stunning images of Atlantic Puffins in their natural habitat. And when I say "just outside the door," I mean it! There are hundreds of puffins right there, with only about a 200-meter walk to our prime photography spots. It doesn't get any easier or more spectacular. Accommodations are truly special in a fully restored lighthouse keeper's house, and the gourmet food is off the charts!

On the last night of last year's workshops, after an incredible dinner and dessert, we set up our gear in anticipation of a spectacular sunset. And let me tell you, we were not disappointed! The colours that painted the sky were simply magical, providing a perfect backdrop as a grand finale.

If you've been dreaming of photographing Atlantic Puffins, this is your chance. These spots won't last long!

Atlantic Puffin Pink Sky Delight (Fratercula arctica, Macareux moine, Frailecillo atlántico, ATPU) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Workshop Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 1.4X Teleconverter @840mm ISO 8,000, f/6.3 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Atlantic Puffin Portrait & Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Workshop Update

Puffin Perfection: A Dream Shoot in Quebec, Canada!

My Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Workshop in Quebec, Canada, always delivers unforgettable magic; This time, an Atlantic Puffin striking a pose against a beautifully blurred backdrop of seaweed. This region is widely considered the best place in the world to photograph Atlantic Puffins, and it's easy to see why!

The conditions were nothing short of ideal. We were blessed with bright, overcast light, a photographer's dream for crafting dramatic portraits. And thanks to the low tide, an extensive bed of seaweed was revealed, providing that fantastic, soft, out-of-focus background.

The night before had been quite stormy, and the puffins were out in full force! They emerged from their burrows, dotting the rocks in a bustling scene before heading off to fish for their hungry pufflings. It was an unforgettable experience, and I'm already looking forward to my next visit!

Don't Miss Your Chance; August 10-13, 2025 OPENINGS!

There have been a couple of cancellations for my otherwise sold-out Deluxe Atlantic Puffin workshop. This incredible experience includes dreamy lighthouse accommodations and gourmet food. Did I mention the puffins are only a short 200-meter walk from your bedroom and dining room? The New York Times even declared this a top travel destination!

If you've ever dreamed of photographing these incredible birds in an idyllic setting, now's your chance!

Atlantic Puffin Portrait

Atlantic Puffin Portrait (Fratercula arctica, Macareux moine, Frailecillo atlántico, ATPU) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Workshop Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 400mm f/2.8 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @800mm ISO 800, f/6.3 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Coastal Grey Wolf of Hallo Bay in Katmai National Park

I just reprocessed this image before delivering it for publication. Way back in 2010, during my Ultimate Brown Bears of Alaska Workshop, we experienced something truly unforgettable with the wolves of Katmai National Park in Hallo Bay. Back then, I would be the bear guide and safety officer (today, I hire a bear biologist, so we are essentially two guides for safety). While Katmai is world-renowned for its incredible brown bear population, the wolves here are just as captivating, especially with their unique coastal adaptations (known for their exceptional hunting behaviour, preying on marine mammals like sea otters and harbour seals).

One particular day stands out. We'd been patiently photographing a coastal brown bear for hours as she skillfully tried to catch a flounder. Eventually, she decided to take a well-deserved rest on a rising sandbar. What made this scene even more remarkable was the presence of a coastal gray wolf. This wolf had been keenly observing the bear's fishing attempts, clearly hoping for some leftovers. It, too, settled down on the same sandbar.

As the tide slowly rose, the massive bear and the lean wolf found themselves moving closer and closer together on the shrinking patch of dry land. It was an incredible display of nature's delicate balance and the intriguing interactions between species. You can see that astonishing moment in this blog post: Unlikely Friends in Alaska: The Brown Bear and the Wolf.

After that breathtaking experience, we navigated to our designated pick-up spot to meet the skiff that would take us back to the ship for a well-deserved, excellent salmon dinner. Along the way, we were fortunate enough to stumble upon another wolf, peacefully resting in the tall grass. It stirred just long enough for us to capture a couple of quick frames before it curled back up, melting into the natural camouflage of the long grass as we respectfully departed.

Looking back at these images, it's incredible to see how far the photography workflow has come since 2010.

Coastal Grey Wolf (Canis lupus, loup gris) from my Ultimate Coastal Brown Bears of Katmai adventure workshop in Alaska. Image Copyright 2010 ©Christopher Dodds. 500mm lens with doubler @ 1,000mm. ISO 800, f/11 @ 1/400s. Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Unsolicited testimonials for my 2010 Ultimate Brown Bears of Alaska:

The trip with Chris on the Coastal Explorer along the Katmai coast was fantastic. Without a doubt it was one of the top photo trips I have taken over the last several years due to the amazing variety and density of wildlife in such completely unspoiled and uninhabited wilderness. Unlike land based lodges, with the Coastal Explorer you have the opportunity to photograph in several of Katmai's secluded bays versus being limited to an area adjacent to a land-based lodge. What helped make the trip so successful was Chris's work ethic where he is always ready to shoot in any weather conditions and will stay in the field as long as there is any possibility for high quality photography. This is essential in a place like coastal Alaska where it can go from direct sunny conditions to heavy overcast to rain in the blink of an eye and where the sun doesn't set until the late evening. If the best time to photograph Brown Bears chasing down salmon was after 10:00PM, you bet we'd be on the river bank waiting on the massive Brown Bear boars to make their spectacular runs--photography is top priority after safety of course. The daily great fresh seafood didn't exactly hurt the trip either.

As I write this I've only a little over two weeks removed from returning from Katmai and I'm still having serious withdrawals--right now I really want to be on the Coastal Explorer's skiff heading to shore to photograph more bears, eagles, and wolves. - Steve Metildi Southern California | USA

I have known Chris for a few years and in July 2010 I attended Chris’s workshop for Coastal Brown Bears. The trip will always hold very special memories for me as I can honestly say it was the most enjoyable and productive trip I have ever made, and the most exhausting :o)) As a professional photographer I tend to try and put together my own trips but when I heard Chris was organizing this trip I had no hesitating in contacting Chris and booking. I would advise anyone else to do the same.

From the moment I landed at Kodiak airport, we were out shooting literally within a few hours. Every day we made the most of early morning and late evening light. Photographing some days till 11 pm. The number of subjects we captured was unbelievable: Fox Cubs, Song Birds, Eagles, Seals, Sea Otters, Wolves and… BEARS! 

After spending three days on Kodiak Island we headed for the Katmai Coast by floatplane and stayed on the Coastal Explorer, which was our home for a week. Almost every day we had a different location to go to and made the most of the weather. At times it rained non-stop and at others, I was walking around in just a t-shirt. Getting up close and personal with the bears was the ultimate thrill and having an enormous boar run, at what seemed directly at me whilst chasing salmon, was a heart-thumping moment I will never forget; Though our safety was Chris's primary concern.

Life on the Coastal explorer was fun and we were all well looked after with meals ready for us at all times. The downtime was relaxed and we watched movies and even spent one-afternoon fishing where I caught Halibut and a silver salmon. Plus I landed the biggest Halibut, don’t let Chris tell you otherwise :o)) As you can tell even when we were not photographing we were having fun.

If you are considering such a trip or one of Chris’s other workshops my advice is not to hesitate and to book straight away. You will be guaranteed a good time and have plenty of photos and memories to take home with you after the trip. 

Thanks for a great time Chris and I look forward to the next one!!

Best Wishes- Darren Holloway (FMPA FBIPP QEP) Smallfield | Surrey | UK

Red-necked Phalarope in flight

We had settled into a quiet spot on the edge of a stream in Kukak Bay, surrounded by the sweeping beauty of Katmai National Park during my Ultimate Coastal Brown Bears of Alaska workshop. In front of us, a male and female Coastal Brown Bear—two massive Grizzlies—grazed peacefully on coastal sedge grass.

But as the group focused intently on the bears, my attention drifted between a Greater Yellowlegs feeding along the stream's edge, a Savannah Sparrow that kept darting around in the long grass nearby, and a Golden-crowned Sparrow foraging on the top of a big rock. I found myself trying to get the workshop group excited about these little creatures—the shorebirds, the sparrows, the quiet moments in between the big-action shots. But, unsurprisingly, the bears were the stars of the show. I kept pointing out the smaller birds, hoping someone would catch my enthusiasm, but they were more fixated on the Grizzlies. It's hard to compete when you're in bear country.

And then, just as I was trying (unsuccessfully) to get someone else excited about the Savannah Sparrow, a Red-necked Phalarope appeared out of nowhere. It made a single, swift pass behind the group, flying in a perfect line parallel to us. I snapped off a quick burst of eight frames before it disappeared, never to be seen again. Of those eight shots, only one had a clear view without part of the bird covered by an out-of-focus person.

The Red-Necked Phalarope (Phalaropus lobatus) is a fascinating and often overlooked resident of the Alaskan coast, including the rich ecosystems of Katmai National Park. The females are the more colourful of the two sexes, and it's the males who do all the incubating and chick-rearing. They're not common in this part of Alaska, but during migration, you sometimes get lucky. These small, elegant shorebirds are particularly interesting for their unique foraging behaviour, often seen spinning rapidly on the water's surface to create a vortex that brings small invertebrates closer to the surface for easier feeding.

In Katmai National Park, the presence of Red-Necked Phalaropes is a testament to the park's incredible biodiversity and the health of its coastal and freshwater habitats. Their migratory journeys are epic, often travelling vast distances from their Arctic breeding grounds to warmer ocean waters for the winter. 

Red-necked Phalarope in Flight (Phalaropus lobatus, Phalarope à bec étroit, Falaropo picofino, RNPH) from my Ultimate Coastal Brown Bears of Katmai adventure workshop in Alaska. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a9 III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS Lens @800mm ISO 3,200, f/8 @ 1/5,000s. Manual exposure.

Used Sony 400mm f/2.8 for sale!

Two friends/clients have mint condition (like new) Sony 400mm f/2.8 lenses for sale:

Vancouver, BC area: Wynne (wynnepowell@hotmail.com) is asking CAD $12,900 but open to reasonable offers.

Burlington, ON area: Mike (mmcgugan2@icloud.com) is asking CAD $12,000.00 and including the 1.4 and 2X teleconverters in the deal.

Orange-crowned Warbler

I always make it a point to arrive early for my photography workshops. It’s not just about possible travel and baggage delays; it’s also about giving myself a chance to settle in and explore the area before the official program kicks off. That proved to be a great decision during my recent "Ultimate Brown Bears of Alaska" workshop.

On the first morning in Kodiak, before the hustle and bustle began, I met up with my friend and participant, Dave Evans. We decided to take an early stroll around the local boat launch, harbour and walk the trails on Near Island; often a goldmine for wildlife photographers, frequently offering fantastic opportunities to capture a diverse range of bird species, seals, and even the majestic Stellar's sea lions.

We were hoping to catch some exciting action, and I was patiently trying to frame a good shot of a Black-billed Magpie when a flash of movement diverted my attention. Perched for just a fleeting moment was an Orange-crowned Warbler. It was a quick, unexpected distraction, but one I was absolutely thrilled with! While the Magpie decided to play hard to get, I was more than pleased with the warbler's unexpected portrait.

Orange-crowned Warbler (Leiothlypis celata, Paruline verdâtre, Reinita coroninaranja, OCWA) Kodiak, Alaska, before my Ultimate Coastal Brown Bears of Katmai adventure workshop in Alaska. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a9 III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS Lens @700mm ISO 6,400, f/8 @ 1/5,000s. Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Coastal Brown (Grizzly) Bear Spring Cub: Mama's Little Shadow

Day two of my Ultimate Brown Bears of Alaska Workshop brought another incredible moment, highlighting the harsh realities and tender care within the bear world. We spotted a sow with her three cubs, and one, in particular, caught our attention: the smallest of the triplets, a tiny "runt" nestled securely beneath its mother.

There was a quiet discussion among the group about the survival chances of this little one. It's a harsh world out there for bear cubs, and the smallest often face an uphill battle. However, observing this particular mother, my doubts began to fade. She was incredibly attentive, constantly watchful, and incredibly protective of her offspring; all qualities of an experienced and capable mother.

Witnessing such devoted maternal care, it wouldn't surprise me one bit if this little runt beats the odds and thrives. It's a powerful reminder that even in the wild, the bond between a mother and her young can be a formidable force against the challenges of nature.

Coastal Brown (Grizzly) Spring Cub Hiding(Ursus arctos, ours brun) from my Ultimate Coastal Brown Bears of Katmai adventure workshop in Alaska. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a9 III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS Lens @800mm ISO 3,200, f/8 @ 1/5,000s. Manual exposure.

Beyond Bears: The Greater Yellowlegs of Katmai National Park

When you think of Katmai National Park, your mind likely conjures images of majestic brown bears - and rightfully so! They are an incredible sight to behold, and our Ultimate Brown Bears of Alaska Workshop certainly delivers on that front. But to truly experience the wild heart of Katmai, you need to look beyond the obvious. This park is a vibrant ecosystem teeming with life, and sometimes, the most surprising encounters come from its smaller, feathered residents.

While the bears certainly provided us with countless photographic opportunities, we had some absolutely fantastic opportunities with a variety of avian species, showcasing the incredible biodiversity of Katmai.

Among the most memorable were the Greater Yellowlegs. These elegant shorebirds, with their strikingly long yellow legs and distinctive calls, were actively on nests during our visit, and they put on quite an aerial display! Every time a bear lumbered too close to their precious babies, these dedicated and protective parents would launch into the air, swooping and diving with incredible precision, seemingly "attacking" the much larger predator. It was a testament to the fierce loyalty and courage of these small birds. To witness such a size difference and see the sheer determination of these parents defending their young against a creature as formidable as a bear was simply amazing.

So, while the "Ultimate Brown Bears of Alaska Workshop" certainly lives up to its name, remember that Katmai offers so much more. From the delicate dance of a Greater Yellowlegs defending its nest to the intricate tapestry of its diverse flora and fauna, every moment in this incredible park is an opportunity to connect with the wild in a profound way. Come for the bears, but stay for the unexpected wonders that truly make Katmai an unforgettable experience!

Greater Yellowlegs (Tringa melanoleuca, Grand Chevalier, Archibebe patigualdo grande, GRYE) from my Ultimate Coastal Brown Bears of Katmai adventure workshop in Alaska. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a9 III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS Lens @800mm ISO 8,000, f/8 @ 1/5,000s. Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Coastal Brown (Grizzly) Spring Cubs Playing during my Ultimate Brown Bears of Alaska Workshop

Playtime Perfection: The Ultimate Brown Bears of Alaska Workshop

There's something truly magical about witnessing wildlife in its natural habitat, and my recent Ultimate Brown Bears of Alaska Workshop delivered that magic in spades. Among the many incredible moments, a particular highlight was spending time with two of a trio of adorable brown bear triplets.

We made sure to get low to the ground—a key technique for a more intimate and less intrusive view—and settled in to watch the show. And what a show it was! These two energetic youngsters played with a contagious exuberance. They wrestled, chased each other, and tumbled in the grass, seemingly oblivious to our presence. Time melted away as we watched their playful antics, captivated for what felt like hours.

Moments like these truly define the Alaskan wilderness experience. Observing such pure, uninhibited joy in these magnificent creatures is a powerful reminder of the beauty and importance of preserving these wild spaces. Every growl, playful swat, and curious glance was a testament to their trust in us.

Being able to share this incredible experience with the workshop participants, all equally enthralled, made it even more special. We left with full hearts, incredible photos, and a renewed appreciation for the ultimate brown bears of Alaska.

Ready to capture your own unforgettable moments? Join me next year for the Ultimate Brown Bears of Alaska Workshop and experience this magic firsthand!

Coastal Brown (Grizzly) Spring Cubs Playing (Ursus arctos, ours brun) from my Ultimate Coastal Brown Bears of Katmai adventure workshop in Alaska. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a9 III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS Lens @400mm ISO 3,200, f/8 @ 1/5,000s. Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Coastal Brown (Grizzly) Bear Ultimate Brown Bear a la Sony a1 mark II and 50mm F1.2 GM lens

Unforgettable Encounter From My Katmai Brown Bear Adventure!

I'm just back, still buzzing with excitement, from my "Ultimate Brown Bear Adventure Workshop" in the breathtaking Katmai National Park, Alaska! What an incredible experience it was. We captured so many phenomenal images, it's genuinely hard to know where to begin.

But let's start here, with one of the many close encounters that made this trip so special. This image was made with my trusty Sony 50mm F1.2 GM lens and the Sony Alpha 1 Mark II camera.

On the second day of the workshop, we found ourselves perched on the edge of a serene stream. We had just been examining a broken egg we'd discovered in the grass when, almost as if on cue, this magnificent male brown bear began to approach us. It was a truly humbling and exhilarating moment.

It’s highly likely this impressive animal was following its incredibly sensitive nose to investigate the scent of the broken egg. Brown bears possess an astonishing sense of smell – far superior to that of a bloodhound, and estimated to be up to seven times better than a domestic dog! This incredible ability allows them to locate food, find mates, and even detect danger from miles away. It's truly one of their most remarkable adaptations, and we witnessed it firsthand.

Speaking of remarkable, I have to give a massive shout-out to the Sony 50mm F1.2 GM lens. While it's known for its incredible low-light performance and beautiful bokeh, it's also a surprisingly versatile lens. For this shot, I stopped down to f/16 to ensure I captured not only the bear in stunning detail but also the breathtaking Katmai scenery that surrounded us. Even at this narrower aperture, the distortion-free, edge-to-edge sharpness is simply outstanding, delivering incredible clarity from foreground to background.

Join me next June for an eight-day, unforgettable trip of a lifetime, immersed in Earth's highest-density brown bear population along the Katmai coast. Learn more about my Ultimate Brown Bears of Katmai Adventure HERE.

Coastal Brown (Grizzly) Bear (Ursus arctos, ours brun) from my Ultimate Coastal Brown Bears of Katmai adventure workshop in Alaska. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony Alpha 1 mark II Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 50mm f/1.2 G Master lens. ISO 500, f/16 @ 1/500s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Bonaventure Island Red Fox

Another incredible Gannets Galore Workshop has come and gone, and what an experience it was! We'd just wrapped up a fantastic time on our Zodiac on the last morning of the second group, cruising beneath the towering cliffs of Bonaventure Island, mesmerized by the sheer scale of the seabird colony. The air was alive with the calls of thousands & thousands of northern gannets, a truly unforgettable experience.

But just when we thought the highlight reel was complete, a new star emerged! The first-time participant, France, suddenly called out, "Fox! Fox! Fox!!" And there it was – a magnificent red fox, perched gracefully on the uniquely textured and vibrantly coloured rocks on the North Side of the island. It was a stunning moment, a perfect culmination of an already spectacular boat excursion.

Beyond our foxy friend, the waters and cliffs around Bonaventure Island never cease to amaze. We were treated to sightings of playful Gray Seals, sleek Razorbills, charming Black Guillemots, vibrant Harlequin Ducks, and thousands of Common Murres (including their striking bridled form). Of course, the sheer abundance of Northern Gannets and the delicate Black-legged Kittiwakes added to the constant visual feast. It is hard to imagine being immersed in thousands of swirling seabirds!

The red foxes of the Gaspé Peninsula are truly a sight to behold. These adaptable and intelligent creatures thrive in the region's diverse landscapes, from coastal areas to dense forests. While they can be notoriously shy, their rusty red coats, often tipped with white on the tail, make them stand out against the greens and grays of their habitat. Spotting one is always a special moment, a reminder of the wild beauty that exists just beyond the beaten path. Their presence on Bonaventure Island adds another layer of magic to an already captivating ecosystem.

Join Me for the Adventure!

Ready to capture unforgettable wildlife moments? If you're passionate about photography and yearn for an immersive experience in one of Canada's most breathtaking natural settings, consider joining me next year for the Gannets Galore Workshop! It's more than just a workshop; it's an incredible photographic adventure designed to put you in the heart of the action, offering unparalleled opportunities to photograph the magnificent seabirds, marine life, and perhaps even a foxy surprise that calls the Gaspé home.

Red Fox on the cliffs of Bonaventure Island(Vulpes vulpes, Renard roux, Zorro rojo). From my Gannets Galore Workshop, June 7, 2025, at Parc national de l'Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher‑Percé. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony a9 III Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS Lens @800mm ISO 10,000, f/8 @ 1/5,000s. Manual exposure. Full frame image.

The Art of the Puffin Portrait: Shallow Depth of Field and Perfect Exposure

There's a unique satisfaction in capturing a wildlife portrait that goes beyond simply documenting a subject. It's about crafting an image and using technical skills to create an image with visual impact. I achieved this while photographing an Atlantic Puffin, focusing on the interplay of shallow depth of field and precise exposure during my Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Lighthouse Adventure Workshop.

Using my Sony a9 III and the 600mm lens with a 2X teleconverter, I worked at the lens's minimum focusing distance, wide open, creating a beautifully shallow field depth, rendering the foreground and background grass as a soft, out-of-focus frame. With its head sticking out, the Puffin became the sharp, captivating focal point.

The cloudy, bright conditions made finding an angle with the perfect foreground, background, and Puffin pose easy without being concerned about harsh shadows spoiling the image. I aimed to capture rich detail in the highlights – the intricate details of the Puffin's feathers – while minimizing noise in the shadows, so careful attention to the exposure and histogram was key. The result is an image that showcases the Puffin's beauty and demonstrates the power of technical knowledge in wildlife photography.

Atlantic Puffin Portrait (Fratercula arctica, Macareux moine, Frailecillo atlántico, Frailecillo atlántico, ATPU) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Workshop Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 2X Teleconverter @1,200mm ISO 5,000, f/5.6 @ 1/2,500s Manual exposure. Full frame image.

Deluxe Atlantic Puffin Workshop Update

Beyond Your Wildest Dreams: Photograph Atlantic Puffins on an Exclusive Island Escape!

Have you ever dreamt of capturing that iconic shot – an Atlantic Puffin, beak overflowing with fish, returning to its hungry chick? Imagine yourself not just seeing it but mastering every aspect of bird photography. If this sounds like your ultimate photographic adventure, get ready because I'm thrilled to share an unparalleled opportunity: my Deluxe Atlantic Puffins & So Much More Workshop!

Decades in the Making: An Unrivaled Puffin Experience

For decades, I've had the immense privilege of guiding hundreds of participants to the magical L'île aux Perroquets in the Mingan Islands, nestled in the stunning Gulf of St. Lawrence. Over the years, I've poured my heart and soul into refining this workshop, transforming it into an experience beyond photography.

Way back when we'd make daily treks from the mainland to the island. But that all changed with the magnificent renovation of the lighthouse on L'île aux Perroquets. Now, we don't just visit – we live the dream on the island! I have total exclusivity for these cozy lighthouse accommodations at the peak time for Puffins returning with the most fishto feed their growing babies for two weeks every year, ensuring that my group are the only overnight guests on the island.

Your Island Paradise: Photography, Luxury, and Learning

Not just a trip; it's an immersion. The island is a photographer's dream – a mere 1 kilometre (.6 mile) in circumference. And here's the best part: all of your puffin photography takes place a breathtaking 200 meters from our cozy lighthouse accommodations.  Are you scared of heights? It's not an issue here; most photography takes place on the beach at sea level. Imagine waking up to the calls of seabirds, stepping out, and being instantly immersed in the heart of the action!

But it's not just about proximity. My Deluxe Atlantic Puffins & So Much More Workshop is meticulously designedto help you build an incredible portfolio of puffin images while simultaneously learning to master every aspect of bird photography. From understanding light and composition to perfecting your camera settings and mastering birds-in-flight photography, I'll be there every step of the way, sharing insights gleaned from my forty years of experience.

And let's not forget the "so much more" part! This refined offering now includes gourmet food – because an extraordinary photographic adventure deserves equally extraordinary culinary delights.

Ready to Capture the Magic?

If you're serious about elevating your bird photography and capturing truly iconic images of Atlantic Puffins in their natural habitat, this is the workshop you've been waiting for. Spaces are limited and fill up quickly, so don't let this incredible opportunity fly by!

Are you ready to create the puffin portfolio of your dreams?

Atlantic Puffin in flight with fish (Fratercula arctica, Macareux moine, Frailecillo atlántico, Frailecillo atlántico, ATPU) from my Deluxe Puffins Galore Workshop Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec, Canada. Image Copyright ©Christopher Dodds. Sony Alpha 1 Mirrorless camera & Sony FE 600mm f/4 G Master OSS Lens with Sony FE 1.4X Teleconverter @840mm ISO 1,000, f/5.6 @ 1/5,000s Manual exposure. Full frame image.