Bear Country: An Alaskan Photography Expedition
Right after the 2025 Fourth of July weekend, I set off for Alaska to join a small group of seasoned photographers on a Colby Brown workshop. Our destination: the wild, breathtaking expanse of Katmai National Park. We were based out of Alaska Grizzly Safaris, Jacques Adventure Lodge—a rustic yet comfortable outpost, perfectly suited for the adventure ahead.
Each morning began with a floatplane flight over shimmering lakes, snow-dusted mountains, and winding marshlands. After a smooth water landing, we’d hike into remote corners of the wilderness, cameras ready, hoping to catch a glimpse of the stars of the show: the Alaskan brown bears. And they did not disappoint. At one point, we counted over 30 bears gathered in a single cove, feasting on salmon during the seasonal run. It was raw, wild nature at its best.
The lodge staff made us feel right at home, the food was hearty and delicious, and the pilots and guides were top-notch—skilled, knowledgeable, and always ready with a story or a tip. What made the trip truly special, though, was the camaraderie. Sharing these awe-inspiring moments with such a passionate, supportive group of fellow photographers made the experience even more memorable.
It was an extraordinary week—part wilderness immersion, part photographic pilgrimage—and one I won’t soon forget.