ALASKA
The vast landscapes surrounding Iliamna, Alaska are full of wildlife roaming the rugged habitat. Exploring this untouched land and photographing the animals that call it home was a surreal experience. During a trip sponsored by Alaskan Grizzly Safari and Hunts Photo & Video, myself and a group of other passionate photographers were able to explore this wilderness in pursuit of photography.
Hunts Photo & Video was founded in 1889, and is a company dedicated to making genuine connections with photographers. I have worked with this company for several years, in which they have sponsored the gear I use and thus helped me to pursue my art. Alaska Grizzly Safaris is a hospitable and knowledgeable team of bear experts and guides whose understanding of the Alaskan terrain allows for people to view the wildlife from a personal yet safe distance. A group of fellow wildlife photographers and myself were sponsored by these two companies in order that we could photograph the Alaskan Grizzly Bears and gain experience as the future generation of photographers.
From viewing the vast landscape from above by bush planes, to eating lunch together in the heart of bear territory, traveling with this incredible group of people throughout uncharted Alaska was an unforgettable experience.
Iliamna, Alaska
The shores of Iliamna, the remote home base for the Alaskan adventure.
Wildlife of Alaska
During the late Spring of Alaska before the salmon run has begun, Grizzly Bears roam around the lush mountain meadows, search for food amidst lakes at low tide, and teach their cubs how to survive.
Although bears are the stars of the Alaskan wilderness, many other species of wildlife call this place home. Mountain Goats and Pikas search for food and raise their young amidst rocky terrain. Shorebirds such as Wandering Tattlers and Upland Sandpipers breed in vastly different habitats from coastal shorelines to remote tundra meadows. And Ptarmigan blend in with their mountainous homes, while Dippers search for food just out of sight from local fishermen.
Swipe through the gallery above to view all Alaskan wildlife photos...
Overall, I am so thankful for this opportunity. I feel so lucky to have met so many inspiring people along the way, worked with such incredible companies, witness the beauty of Alaska and its wildlife, and grown as a photographer. I never expected to be so in awe of every part of this experience, and even though chasing the Alaskan midnight sunsets left me quite tired the following mornings, every day spent fully living in the moment and learning was well worth it.