Art Of Tiny: Macro Photography Masterclass
Our exclusive new offering gives you the chance to capture the smallest details through daily workshops right in the heart of Chicago.
Pre-Booking Available NOW!
2024 Travelers' Choice
Office Hours: 8AM-4PM MT, Monday-Friday
supervisor_account
Find Your Next Photo Adventure
Trip Calendar Most Popular Photography Tours 2024 Photography Tours 2025 Photography Tours 2026 Photography Tours 2027 Photography Tours Spring Photography Tours Summer Photography Tours Fall Photography Tours Winter Photography Tours Landscape Photography Tours Wildlife Photography Tours International Photography Tours
Stay Up To Date On All Things
Backcountry Journeys
Backcountry Journeys
Our Photography Community
Our Blog
From articles on the latest camera gear, to trip reports from our latest expeditions, our blog is meant for all interested in travel photography.Our Webinars
Our regularly hosted webinars provide photography instruction from our own guides on a wide range of topics.Our Education Portal
Explore our library of articles that cover everything from common questions, to in-depth guides on how to achieve that perfect shot.Community Testimonials
We're proud to foster an amazing group of photo travelers, and here you can find their stories from their past adventures.About Backcountry Journeys
Why Choose Backcountry Journeys
If you're considering a photography tour, hear why Backcountry Journeys delivers the best experience in the industry.Frequently Asked Questions
If you're new to photography tours, or new to BCJ, you can find our common travel questions here.Fitness Levels
Our trips vary on physical intensity, and by reviewing our fitness levels, you can find out which trips may be more challenging, or aligned more closely with your comfort level.Meet The Crew
We've built an amazing team of experienced guides, and dedicated office staff that elevate your travel experience. Get to know their backgrounds, and hear their stories.Travel Desk
You can review our various payment, and travel policies here, along with resources regarding international travel.Gift Certificates
Give the gift of photo adventure! We offer gift certificates that can be applied to any of our upcoming tours.Loyalty Program
We reward our frequent photo adventurers with exclusive discounts on amazing photography tours.Contact Us
If you need to get in touch with our office staff, or have additional business inquiries, you can find our information here.Resources For Photographers
About Our Company
Capturing Majesty: Photographing Bald Eagles in the Alaskan Wilderness
Capturing Majesty: Photographing Bald Eagles in the Alaskan Wilderness
by Keenan Hursh
Deep in the heart of the Alaskan wilderness, a thrilling adventure awaits those who yearn to capture the essence of freedom and majesty. Amongst the countless natural wonders and wildlife species of Alaska, there's one iconic symbol that stands in a realm of its own: the bald eagle. These magnificent raptors are not just birds; they are living and breathing symbols of power, grace, intelligence, and freedom.
Bald Eagles are some of the most fascinating and beautiful raptors on the entire planet. These birds are incredibly intelligent, have insanely powerful and impressive vision, are skilled hunters and opportunists, and are an absolute joy to observe and photograph.
Capturing images of bald eagles in their natural Alaskan habitat is an experience that transcends the ordinary, offering photographers a chance to witness these awe-inspiring birds up close and personal. Bald eagles are some of my absolute favorite wildlife photography subjects and if you haven’t had the pleasure of photographing them yourself, I implore you to add this to your list.
In today’s article, we'll explore the thrills, joys, and the overall epic nature of photographing bald eagles in one of the best locations on earth: the Chilkat River region nestled deep in the Alaskan wilderness. Let’s get into it and discover just how incredible these raptors really are and why they’re exceptional photography subjects!
Photographing Bald Eagles with Backcountry Journeys
Before we get into it, I’d like to share this awesome video filmed by BCJ founder Russ Nordstrand and edited by our Director of Marketing and Photo Trip Leader Matt Meisenheimer. As they say: if a picture tells a thousand words, then a video tells a million. This video provides a firsthand account of just how incredible photographing bald eagles in the Alaskan wilderness can be!
Bald Eagles are some of the most fascinating and beautiful raptors on the entire planet. These birds are incredibly intelligent, have insanely powerful and impressive vision, are skilled hunters and opportunists, and are an absolute joy to observe and photograph.
Capturing images of bald eagles in their natural Alaskan habitat is an experience that transcends the ordinary, offering photographers a chance to witness these awe-inspiring birds up close and personal. Bald eagles are some of my absolute favorite wildlife photography subjects and if you haven’t had the pleasure of photographing them yourself, I implore you to add this to your list.
In today’s article, we'll explore the thrills, joys, and the overall epic nature of photographing bald eagles in one of the best locations on earth: the Chilkat River region nestled deep in the Alaskan wilderness. Let’s get into it and discover just how incredible these raptors really are and why they’re exceptional photography subjects!
Photographing Bald Eagles with Backcountry Journeys
Before we get into it, I’d like to share this awesome video filmed by BCJ founder Russ Nordstrand and edited by our Director of Marketing and Photo Trip Leader Matt Meisenheimer. As they say: if a picture tells a thousand words, then a video tells a million. This video provides a firsthand account of just how incredible photographing bald eagles in the Alaskan wilderness can be!
This video highlights our incredibly popular Bald Eagles of Alaska photography workshop. This workshop is solely focused on photographing bald eagles around the Chilkat River near Haines, Alaska where they congregate in incredible numbers every year. If you’ve been dreaming of getting up close and personal with these iconic raptors, then this trip is for you! CLICK HERE to learn more!
Alright, with that being said, let’s get into today’s article and discuss the art of photographing bald eagles in the wild!
Alright, with that being said, let’s get into today’s article and discuss the art of photographing bald eagles in the wild!
The Splendor of Bald Eagles
Before we dive into the art of capturing these magnificent birds through a lens, let's take a moment to appreciate just how special, unique, and interesting bald eagles are as a wildlife species.
Bald eagles are instantly recognizable with their striking white heads and tails, sharp yellow beaks and talons, and piercing eyes. One characteristic that truly sets them apart is their impressive size, with wingspans that can exceed seven feet. These powerful raptors are built for success in their hunting endeavors, possessing talons capable of gripping prey such as fish with incredible force.
Bald eagles are also incredibly adaptable birds, inhabiting a range of environments from coastal regions to inland lakes and rivers. Their versatility in finding and securing food sources contributes to their widespread distribution. Whether they're skillfully fishing from a river or seeking out a carcass to scavenge on they are truly versatile animals that can adapt to survive in many different climates and ecosystems.
It's also a gift that we’re lucky enough to have their presence in today’s skies. The story of the bald eagle's recovery from the brink of extinction is a testament to the power of conservation efforts. Once listed as an endangered species, their population has rebounded significantly, thanks to concerted conservation actions. This success story highlights the importance of protecting our natural world and the species that inhabit it. Thanks to conservation efforts we can enjoy and photograph thriving eagle populations throughout the world today!
FUN FACT: Bald eagles don't fully develop their distinct black and white coloring until their at least 5-6 years old. Juvenile bald eagles are often confused with golden eagles.
Before we dive into the art of capturing these magnificent birds through a lens, let's take a moment to appreciate just how special, unique, and interesting bald eagles are as a wildlife species.
Bald eagles are instantly recognizable with their striking white heads and tails, sharp yellow beaks and talons, and piercing eyes. One characteristic that truly sets them apart is their impressive size, with wingspans that can exceed seven feet. These powerful raptors are built for success in their hunting endeavors, possessing talons capable of gripping prey such as fish with incredible force.
Bald eagles are also incredibly adaptable birds, inhabiting a range of environments from coastal regions to inland lakes and rivers. Their versatility in finding and securing food sources contributes to their widespread distribution. Whether they're skillfully fishing from a river or seeking out a carcass to scavenge on they are truly versatile animals that can adapt to survive in many different climates and ecosystems.
It's also a gift that we’re lucky enough to have their presence in today’s skies. The story of the bald eagle's recovery from the brink of extinction is a testament to the power of conservation efforts. Once listed as an endangered species, their population has rebounded significantly, thanks to concerted conservation actions. This success story highlights the importance of protecting our natural world and the species that inhabit it. Thanks to conservation efforts we can enjoy and photograph thriving eagle populations throughout the world today!
FUN FACT: Bald eagles don't fully develop their distinct black and white coloring until their at least 5-6 years old. Juvenile bald eagles are often confused with golden eagles.
The Joys of Photographing Bald Eagles
Now that we've explored the remarkable nature of bald eagles as animals, let's dive into the joy of photographing them in the wilderness.
One of the most thrilling aspects of photographing bald eagles is the opportunity to witness their aerial displays. These birds are renowned for their agility in the air, with the ability to soar effortlessly on thermal currents or execute breathtaking aerial acrobatics. They use their incredible speed and precision to dive, swoop, and snatch prey from the water's surface and to fight with one another when necessary. Capturing these moments of sheer power and grace is a photographer's dream come true.
And Alaska is the ideal place to photograph these marvelous raptors. Regions of raw and largely untouched wilderness provide an unrivaled backdrop for photographing bald eagles. Vast expanses of pristine forests, towering mountains, and crystal-clear waters create a dramatic and dynamic canvas that elevates any photograph. Whether perched majestically on a towering tree or silhouetted against the setting sun, bald eagles become part of the breathtaking Alaskan scenery, creating compositions that are truly magical.
One of the best photography opportunities arises when bald eagles are hunting for prey. They are skilled hunters, primarily feeding on fish but also opportunists constantly seeking out carcasses and dead animals to scavenge on. Watching them execute precision dives and swoops to pluck fish from the water's surface is a sight to behold. The intense concentration in their eyes, the powerful talons gripping their catch, and the triumphant ascent into the sky make for remarkable photographic opportunities. These moments capture the essence of their survival instinct and prowess.
And last but certainly not least, bald eagles are iconic birds that represent boldness and freedom. Photographing bald eagles is more than just capturing their actions and physical beauty; it's about encapsulating the spirit of freedom that they symbolize. As the national bird and symbol of the United States, these eagles evoke a sense of patriotism, pride, and the enduring American spirit. Photographing them in their natural habitat brings a deeper connection to this symbol, stirring emotions that go beyond the visual.
Now that we've explored the remarkable nature of bald eagles as animals, let's dive into the joy of photographing them in the wilderness.
One of the most thrilling aspects of photographing bald eagles is the opportunity to witness their aerial displays. These birds are renowned for their agility in the air, with the ability to soar effortlessly on thermal currents or execute breathtaking aerial acrobatics. They use their incredible speed and precision to dive, swoop, and snatch prey from the water's surface and to fight with one another when necessary. Capturing these moments of sheer power and grace is a photographer's dream come true.
And Alaska is the ideal place to photograph these marvelous raptors. Regions of raw and largely untouched wilderness provide an unrivaled backdrop for photographing bald eagles. Vast expanses of pristine forests, towering mountains, and crystal-clear waters create a dramatic and dynamic canvas that elevates any photograph. Whether perched majestically on a towering tree or silhouetted against the setting sun, bald eagles become part of the breathtaking Alaskan scenery, creating compositions that are truly magical.
One of the best photography opportunities arises when bald eagles are hunting for prey. They are skilled hunters, primarily feeding on fish but also opportunists constantly seeking out carcasses and dead animals to scavenge on. Watching them execute precision dives and swoops to pluck fish from the water's surface is a sight to behold. The intense concentration in their eyes, the powerful talons gripping their catch, and the triumphant ascent into the sky make for remarkable photographic opportunities. These moments capture the essence of their survival instinct and prowess.
And last but certainly not least, bald eagles are iconic birds that represent boldness and freedom. Photographing bald eagles is more than just capturing their actions and physical beauty; it's about encapsulating the spirit of freedom that they symbolize. As the national bird and symbol of the United States, these eagles evoke a sense of patriotism, pride, and the enduring American spirit. Photographing them in their natural habitat brings a deeper connection to this symbol, stirring emotions that go beyond the visual.
Conclusion
Photographing bald eagles in the Alaskan wilderness is a privilege that offers unparalleled thrills, joys, and excitement for photographers. These incredible birds, with their majestic presence and iconic symbolism, make every encounter a memorable experience. As you embark on your journey to capture the essence of freedom and beauty, remember that the true magic lies not just in the photographs but in the intimate connection you forge with these remarkable creatures and the untamed wilderness they call home. So, pack your camera, embrace the adventure, and let the Alaskan wilderness reveal its awe-inspiring secrets through the lens of your camera.
We hope to see you out there photographing bald eagles in the future and wish you the best of luck on your next photography adventure.
Until next time!
Photographing bald eagles in the Alaskan wilderness is a privilege that offers unparalleled thrills, joys, and excitement for photographers. These incredible birds, with their majestic presence and iconic symbolism, make every encounter a memorable experience. As you embark on your journey to capture the essence of freedom and beauty, remember that the true magic lies not just in the photographs but in the intimate connection you forge with these remarkable creatures and the untamed wilderness they call home. So, pack your camera, embrace the adventure, and let the Alaskan wilderness reveal its awe-inspiring secrets through the lens of your camera.
We hope to see you out there photographing bald eagles in the future and wish you the best of luck on your next photography adventure.
Until next time!
Keenan Hursh
Keenan Hursh is a Photographer, visual designer, and creative story teller based out of Bozeman, Montana. He draws inspiration from his frequent excursions into the natural world and always brings his camera along to capture whatever adventures he finds himself in. Keenan is passionate about documenting and sharing fleeting moments from the natural world and focuses primarily on wildlife, landscape, and adventure photography.
When it comes to gear, he primarily shoots digital with his Canon EOS R5 and EOS 6D mark ii but also has several 35mm film cameras that get out every now and then.
At a very young age, Keenan started bringing a camera along on his excursions and immediately fell in love with the art of photography. He started out with his parent’s cheap point and shoot and has continuously improved his craft and gear refining his shooting style and producing more compelling and intriguing images.
Growing up in the foothills of Boulder, Colorado, surrounded by mountains and wilderness, Keenan has developed a deep passion for many outdoor activities. When he’s not out on a shoot or using his camera, Keenan enjoys skiing, climbing, hiking, backpacking, cycling, whitewater rafting, and paragliding. If he’s outside, away from the distractions of society and civilization, he’s in his happy place.
Keenan studied Emergent Digital Practices at the University of Denver while minoring in Marketing and Entrepreneurship. Since earning his degree in 2019 he was worked with a wide range of clients, companies, and organizations throughout his career. Apart from photography he specializes in content creation, writing, brand development, and graphic design.
You can view Keenan’s portfolio on his website at www.keenanhurshphoto.com
SEARCH THE BLOG
clear
Join our free photo-travel community group on Facebook. A great place to swap stories & share images with fellow photographers!
Live events & webinars from the comfort of your own home. Free webinars on a variety of photography related topics – from photo editing to composition & more.
Checkout the BCJ Trip Calendar. Peruse all of our upcoming Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris!
FEATURED TRIP:
Dolomites in Summer
Dolomites in Summer
Discover the enchanting landscapes of the Dolomites in Summer. Capture breathtaking images of wildflowers, dramatic alpine peaks, and quaint villages on this world-class adventure!
JOIN OUR FREE FACEBOOK GROUP - THE BCJ TRIBE
JOIN OUR FREE FACEBOOK GROUP - THE BCJ TRIBE
UPCOMING TRIPS WITH AVAILABILITY
UPCOMING TRIPS WITH AVAILABILITY
[Block//Web Spots Left]
[Block//Trip//Trip Category (Destinations)]
[Block//Start Date %M d %+0]- [Block//End Date %M d, Y%+0]
From [Block//Current Price]
arrow_drop_down_circle
Divider Text
READ OUR NEWSLETTER FOR NEW TRIPS, ARTICLES, & PROMOS
READ OUR NEWSLETTER FOR NEW TRIPS, ARTICLES, & PROMOS
BACKCOUNTRY JOURNEYS
"Backcountry Journeys offers guests the unique opportunity to explore our natural world from behind their own lens. We run a selection of hand-crafted Photo Tours, Workshops & Safaris connecting passionate people to exceptional experiences. Locations worldwide.
- Russ Nordstrand, Backcountry Journeys Founder & Director
- Russ Nordstrand, Backcountry Journeys Founder & Director
TRIP CATALOG
Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.
All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLCs - Copyright 2024
BACKCOUNTRY JOURNEYS
"Backcountry Journeys offers guests the unique opportunity to explore our natural world from behind their own lens. We run a selection of hand-crafted Photo Tours, Workshops & Safaris connecting passionate people to exceptional experiences. Locations worldwide.
All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Journeys Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLC - Copyright 2024
TRIP CATALOG
Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.