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About Our Company
Capturing Majesty: Photographing Bald Eagles in the Alaskan Wilderness
Published October 3, 2023
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!
We offer world-class travel photography
experiences around the world.
Each tour is bundled with lodging, meals, and transportation between workshops included, allowing you to focus on photography instead of the stress of traveling.
experiences around the world.
Each tour is bundled with lodging, meals, and transportation between workshops included, allowing you to focus on photography instead of the stress of traveling.
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Explore our library of articles that cover everything from common questions, to in-depth guides on how to achieve that perfect shot.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
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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 2025
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 2025
TRIP CATALOG
Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.