Why Should Photographers Come to Canada in 2016?

In addition to vast areas of untouched geography, abundant wildlife and some of the most photogenic seascapes in the world, there is an even more attractive reason to consider coming to Canada in 2016 while you search for your next photography workshop, the weakness of the Canadian dollar.

In a recent article in Reuters, the wrote the following, “The Canadian dollar will not gain back any ground against its U.S. counterpart in the coming year as the resource-dependent economy feels the pinch of low crude oil and commodity prices, a Reuters poll found.

Canada is the world's fifth largest producer of oil and a steep slump in its price since June last year has led to falling revenues at energy firms and pushed the currency down 10 percent in 2014. It has lost another 8 percent so far this year.

The survey of 45 foreign exchange strategists predicted the Canadian dollar will trade at C$1.26 in a month and C$1.28 by end-June. It was trading at $1.252 on Thursday.

Analysts expect the currency, known as the loonie, to hold close to C$1.27-C$1.28 between six months to a year.”

What does that mean for our tours that we run in Canada? Have a look at what you will pay in US dollars for our workshops and tours…

Snowy Owl Week Long Workshop from Jan 17 - Jan 21st, 2016 has a price of $2795Canadian. Depending on the exact currency exchange at the time of your booking would cost you somewhere around $2150USD for the five day quest for majestic Snowy and Great Grey Owls in Ontario, Canada. Be captivated by their mesmerizing eyes, witness the stealth flight on the unsuspecting voles and rodents they feed upon. Come join us and witness the magic while you capture amazing images of these very photogenic owls.

All the details are here. http://northof49photography.com/2015-owl-workshop

Aurora Workshop from October 19, 2015 to October 23, 2015 has a price of $2375 Canadian. Depending on the exact currency exchange at the time of your booking would cost you somewhere around $1825USD to visit the best location in the world for viewing the aurora borealis. As the nights grow longer, the green, red and mauve lights of aurora borealis, or northern lights, are absolutely brilliant in their dance across the sky.

All the details are here. http://northof49photography.com/2015-aurura-workshop

Yukon Winter wonderland Workshop is February 24, 2016 to March 2, 2016 and has a price of

$3975CAD. Depending on the exact currency exchange at the time of your booking would cost you somewhere around $3050USD

This trip offers a close up view of life in the Yukon. Step back in time; this tour will take you on historic trails used by many trappers over the years. You learn the basics of mushing and form a close relationship with your dogs when we’re setting off into the wilderness, exploring the pristine winter wonder land of the Yukon through our lenses. If we’re lucky we may see the amazingly beautiful Aurora Borealis dancing in the sky, or see some of Yukon's abundant wildlife.

See the details here. http://northof49photography.com/yukon-winter-photography-tour

Yukon Wildlife Tour is from March 2, 2016 to March 9, 2016 and is priced at $4750CDN. Depending on the exact currency exchange at the time of your booking would cost you somewhere around $3640USD

It is said that the Moose outnumber humans two to one and the wildlife is so plentiful that visitors are amazed at the ease of accessibility with the right guides.

We have been traveling to the Yukon for two years now and have created a specific trip for wildlife enthusiasts that appreciate pristine mountain landscapes as a backdrop for their images.

See the details here. http://northof49photography.com/yukon-wildlife-tour

Nova Scotia Lighthouse Route run on June 12 to June 18, 2016 and June 19 to June 25, 2016. They are priced at $3595Canadian. Depending on the exact currency exchange at the time of your booking would cost you somewhere around $2750USD

With more lighthouses per square mile of any coastline in North America, the lighthouse route in Nova Scotia offers the photographer an abundance of lighthouses and small east coast fishing villages to capture. From the famous harbor front in Halifax, to Peggy's Cove, and Lunenburg and the whales, the photo ops are iconic.

Details for this tour are coming soon.

Newfoundland and Labrador tours are from June 9, 2016 to June 18, 2016 (Sold Out) and June 19 to June 28th, 2016. Our price in Canadian dollars are $4885 Canadian. Depending on the exact currency exchange at the time of your booking would cost you somewhere around $3750USD

On this tour to the east coast of Canada as we track down icebergs on their journey south, migratory whales that are on their journey north, and timeless lighthouses throughout the pristine landscapes along the northern coastline of Newfoundland and Labrador.

See the details here. http://northof49photography.com/new-page-1

Our east coast workshop to photograph Humpback Whales, Bald Eagles, Puffins and Icebergs runs from July 3 to July 8, 2016 and from July 9 to July 14, 2016. The price in Canadian is $2995CAD. Depending on the exact currency exchange at the time of your booking would cost you somewhere around $2300USD

Here you will join us for a trip that will have you photographing bald eagles fishing on cod in the shallow waters, humpback whales and orcas swimming and breaching in the Atlantic waters, photographing 500 pairs of mating puffins on an a private island and taking zodiac tours to photograph the icebergs as they pass down iceberg alley.

See the details here. http://northof49photography.com/newfoundland-whales-eagle-puffins-workshop

Our annual Northern Gannets Photography Workshops are on July 18 to July 20th, 2016 and July 21st to July 23rd, 2016. Our price for this workshop is $1995CAD. Depending on the exact currency exchange at the time of your booking would cost you somewhere around $1525USD

Here you will join us for three days and four nights at the largest Northern Gannet colony in the world. Our destination is Bonaventure Island, and is home to more than 55,000 nesting pairs of Northern Gannets. National Geographic Traveler Magazine ranks the area of Gaspé the number three tourism destinations in the world.

See the details here. http://northof49photography.com/bonaventure-gannet-workshop

Our west coast workshop to photograph Orcas, Bald eagles and Bears run on April 25 - 29, 2016  /  May 2 - 6, 2016 and May 9 - 13. 2016 and has a Canadian price of $3495CAD. Depending on the exact currency exchange at the time of your booking would cost you somewhere around $2680USD

This is a workshop that will have you photographing bald eagles fishing on krill, humpback whales and orcas feeding on seal and swimming and breaching in the Pacific waters, photographing black and brown bears in one of the most highly concentrated areas of Canada.

See the details here. http://northof49photography.com/british-columbia-whales-and-wildlife

Our tours across Vancouver Island run on the dates of July 25, 2016 to July 31st, 2016  /  August 1, 2016 to August 7th, 2016  /  August 8th to August 14th, 2016 and  October 17th to October 23rd, 2016 and October 24th to October 30th, 2016. We have priced this workshop at $3795CAD. Depending on when you book, the USD price will be $2900USD.

Here you will join us as we travels to the extreme west coast of British Columbia. We are headed to Vancouver Island to capture some of Canada's most pristine landscapes, whales and seascapes during a time of year when the morning fog creates a mysterious aura.

See the details here. http://northof49photography.com/2016-tofino-workshop

You can come with us to photograph one of Canada's largest herd of Bison from September 18 to September 22, 2016. Our price for this workshop is $2995Canadian. Depending on the exact currency exchange at the time of your booking would cost you somewhere around $2290USD

This is a true Northern Canada Safari on the Wild West Side of Prince Albert National Park. In addition to viewing the free ranging bison, you may also encounter wolves, elk, moose, deer, bears and countless birds and waterfowl.

See the details here. http://northof49photography.com/bison-workshop-in-saskatchewan

Our annual Autumn Aurora Hunt runs from September 24, 2016 to September 29, 2016. The price of the workshop is $3595Canadian. Depending on the exact currency exchange at the time of your booking would cost you somewhere around $2750USD

You will visit the aurora capitol of the world, Whitehorse... where the skies present the dancing lights, the landscapes are endless and Bison are known to create what’s known as the Canadian Roadblock. We will center this trip around Whitehorse and daily head out into the countryside to capture the history and auroras, and one of Canada's post picturesque areas.

See the details here. http://northof49photography.com/yukon-workshop

Newfoundland Photography Tour

 

We will begin our time together as we live the life of a lighthouse keeper overlooking “Iceberg Alley”.

 

Here we will hear the Killer Whales’ call echoing off massive icebergs in our own private cove and hopefully awaken to the sounds of the Humpbacks calling you across vast stretches of the North Atlantic. From this location we will explore the rugged landscape made famous in “The Shipping News”, the Pulitzer prize-winning novel and Kevin Spacey movie.

 

Dates of Workshop: Workshop #1 - June 9 to June 18, 2016 (Sold Out) and Workshop #2 - June 19 to June 28th, 2016

Price of Workshop:  $4885CDN

Photographic Leader(s):  Kevin Pepper and Len Silvester

Maximum Number of attendees: 7

Deposit to secure space in workshop:  $750CDN

What is Included: 10 day workshop with 9 nights’ accommodation (including 3 at Quirpon Lighthouse Inn and 2 at Cape Anguille Lighthouse Inn). 5 breakfasts, daily snacks, juice and water, 5 dinners. Western Brook Pond boat tour. All park and site passes. Transportation.

What is not included: anything not mentioned as included, alcohol, International airfare, items of personal nature, travel insurance.

Arrival should be early afternoon on June 21st and departure times after 2pm on June 30th from Deer Lake Airport in Newfoundland.

Imagine the feel the salt spray in your face as you journey out to remote Quirpon Island amidst the dolphins and whales. As you land in the cove, imagine you are returning home to the sod huts, thousands of years old, which lay undisturbed here. Forge a link with ancient humans as you stand in the remains of their huts overlooking the cove and picture the tiny beach coming to like as it was eons ago.

This is your home for three days. It lies atop the cliffs at the northern tip of this deserted island. The contrast of the rugged beauty of the island and the cozy luxury of Quirpon Lighthouse Inn will bring back your childhood feelings of laying by the fire as a storm raged outside. Imperceptibly your priorities in life will shift as you become part of the primal connection between humans and the remote reaches of the sea.

You are now in the best spot on earth to visit with whales and icebergs. At dawn, be certain and capture them through your lens while you introduce yourself to your only neighbors – the whales migrating past your doorstep. An abandoned fishing village near the lighthouse will just be one of many hiking destinations at Quirpon. Learn of the tragic but romantic mass murder and suicide that inevitably lead to its demise.

View the “vast cathedrals of ice”. On sunny days they appear lit from inside. On dull days other senses take over as they seem to grow in size. Their chilling effect spreads to your mind and you feel a timeless empathy for sailors who have dreaded these giants for a millennium.

Europeans first arrived in North America 500 years before Columbus. These Vikings settled in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of L’anse aux Meadows. As you visit, one question will fill your mind- Why here? Be sure to ask resident Vikings who work here today. Join them in their huts and sample cuisine from ten centuries ago.

From here we head south along the Viking Trail. If you think the shoreline to this point has been spectacular, wait until your boat tour of Western Brook Pond in Gros Morne. This landlocked fjord was left as a slash in the cliffs when the last ice age ended. 2000 vertical faces slowly come together as your journey on the purest lake in the world. This voyage is guaranteed to give you memories to savor back in the real world. Afterwards, stretch your legs on a valley of ancient earth’s mantle that has made this park a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The landscape evokes images of the moon more than the earth, but this geological wonder has its own charms. You will enjoy it from sun up to sun down through the lens.

We end our trip at Cape Anguille. Surrounding the Inn, the Atlantic Ocean provides a temperamental backdrop to the peaceful landscape dotted with horses and sheep wandering the meadows and hills.
Avid bird photographers will be left speechless by the common and rare birds. All nature lovers will enjoy the eagles patrolling the cliffs and the silhouette of osprey carrying fish to their young as the sun sets in a limitless sea.

 

Last year we hiked the hills and coastline around the lighthouse and surrounding villages. We’re certain all hikers will find enjoyable terrain and spectacular views. Fortunately for those that aren’t interested in the idea of hiking, the beauty of the sea and the sounds of the birds start at the doorstep and a gentle seaside path starts at our lawn.

From this location we can travel along the south coast and photograph scenic vistas and pristine seascapes in the area of Rose Blanche lighthouse and the impressive area waterfalls.

You should also ask us about our four day "Puffin Extension" where we will get you up close and personal with Newfoundland's Provincial bird at a large colony and head over to the area near Twillengate to photograph larger icebergs along the coastal bays.

Contact me to reserve your spot. Email me through our Contact Us Page or email Kevin at kevinapepper@outlook.com

WIldife Photograph Workshop in Newfoundland, Canada

 

Come join us for a trip that will have you photographing bald eagles fishing on cod in the shallow waters, humpback whales and orcas swimming and beaching in the Atlantic waters, photographing 500 pairs of mating puffins on an a private island and taking zodiac tours to photograph the icebergs as they pass down iceberg alley.

Workshop #1 is July 3 to July 8, 2016

Instructors: Kevin A Pepper (K2) and Len Silvester

 

Workshop #2 is July 9 to July 14, 2016

Instructors: Len Silvester and Chris Pepper

 

Price: $2995CAD, to secure your spot is $750

Included: Airport pick up, shared accommodation, private zodiac rides, general admission zodiac rides as mentioned in the itinerary, guiding and photography guidance, juice, water and snacks during the day

 

Not Included: International flights, extra nights, items of personal nature, breakfast and dinners, travel insurance

 

We are headed to Newfoundland again and conducting two workshops in Eastern Newfoundland. We have scouted this location and have identified an area where we can stay within one hour of our hotel and photograph some amazing sights if you like wildlife and birds.

You will be picked up on day one at the airport in St Johns at 11am and brought back to our hotel. Your flight home should be scheduled after 4pm on the last day of the workshop. By doing this we will be able to potentially be able to photograph puffins in the afternoon or evening of day one and the morning of the last day before your departure to the airport.

Our workshops run for six days and five nights and your time with us will include the following.

A minimum of three, three hour zodiac rides to follow and photograph icebergs, humpback whales and orcas

 

One day of photographing bald eagles feeding on capelin and cod in the shallow waters off of one of the shallow bays that the eagles congregate around. We get dropped off on one of these sandy coves before sunrise and will get picked up again later in the afternoon from our private zodiac charter

One day on a private island surrounded by 500 mating pairs of puffins. We get dropped off on this island at sunrise and will get picked up again mid afternoon from our private zodiac charter.

A minimum of one day near Bonavista, Newfoundland photographing another colony of mating puffins.

We do not define which activity occurs on which day because of variables like seas, weather and fish patterns. We promise each will occur over the course of the workshop, we just cannot guarantee in what order. Some activities like landing on the private puffin island require calmer seas.

 

Suggested Camera gear is a telephoto of 400mm or more for the eagles and puffins, a medium telephoto of 70-200mm for icebergs and a wider angle lens for icebergs and landscapes in the range of 24-105mm. You should also bring your tripod and rain coats for your cameras as we are positioned on the Atlantic ocean.

 

If you have any questions, or to register, please contact us through our http://northof49photography.com/contact-us/

British Columbia Whales and Wildlife Workshop

 

Our captain and guide that we have partnered with for our wildlife tours is Simon, an avid wildlife photographer. He leads all of our private photography charters that we run in British Columbia. I am continually impressed with his uncanny ability to place the boat in the perfect spot to capture those "once and a lifetime shots."

 

During your time with us you will witness spectacular wildlife photography and whale photography. We will be located on the southeast shores of Vancouver Island, approximately one hour north of Victoria and 45 minutes south of Nanaimo.

 

Our goal species are the Bald Eagle that use these harbours as their personal dining areas, often seen feeding on marine life along the coastal shores. We will also take you to some of the most densely populated areas for brown and black bear as they use the shorelines to look for food.

 

Plus, on any given day between April and October, we have witnessed up to 89 Orca Whales frolicking in the southern Vancouver Island waterways. Observe these fascinating marine mammals in their natural habitat as you enjoy the scenic waterways of southern Vancouver Island.

 

While our high quality, all-inclusive Whale Watching adventure focuses on the Southern Resident Orca Whales, Transient Orca pods, Humpback Whales, Grey Whales, Minke Whales, Dall's Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Sea Lions, Bald Eagles, and a variety of marine birds are also abundant in the area.

 

The Southern Resident Orca Whales are split into three separate groups known as "J pod", "K pod", and "L pod". Orca Whales are very social animals. They live in small nuclear and extended families know as pods, clans and communities.

 

In addition to resident Orca Whales, Transient Orcas are sighted all year. While the Resident Orcas feed almost exclusively on the abundant salmon runs during the summer months, the Transient Orcas feed on a variety of other marine mammals including Porpoises, Dolphins, Whales, Seals, Sea Lions, and sometimes even Deer. The Resident and Transient Orca Whales do not intermingle, but coexist in the same waters.

 

Arrivals and departures: Please be in Richmond, British Columbia to be picked up at 10am on day one. Plan your departure on the last day after 5pm as we will be dropping you off in Vancouver at 2pm.

Dates of Workshops: In 2016 we are only doing three weeks

April 25, 2016 to April 29th, 2016

May 2, 2016 6o May 6, 2016

May 9, 2016 to May 13, 2016

Price for the workshop is $3495.00CAD ($2780USD) $950 single supplement if you want your own cabin to yourself. You do get your own bedroom in a cabin for regular tour price.

Deposit to secure your place in the workshop is $750.00CAD

Included: All accommodation in two bedroom cabins, two ferry rides, entrance fees to Buchart gardens, all meals except that which is not covered in itinerary, all National park entrance fees, all Provincial park entry fees, 9 to 12 hours of wildlife viewing on boats, transportation

Not Included: items of personal nature, alcohol, laundry, travelers insurance, extra nights if needed.

 

Day One – Monday

You will be met south of Vancouver at the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal in the departures near where the taxi drops you off at 12:30am. From there we will go to the vehicle and load up and head over to get in line for our ferry ride across to Swartz bay in Victoria at 1pm  

 

Once on the island we will quickly head to our cabins to get unpacked and settled for our time on the island.

 

Our first opportunity to photograph the orca and humpback whales is at 5PM and is scheduled to run to 8pm or 9pm. We will head out for our lastWhale Watching tours to focus on the Southern Resident Orca Whales, Transient Orca Whales, Humpback Whales, Grey Whales and Minke Whales. You will also encounter Sea Lions, Bald Eagles, Harbour Seals, Dalls and Harbour Porpoise as well as a myriad of marine birds on your whale watching eco tour.

 

Stay in two bedroom cabins in Cowichan Bay (Dinner included)

 

Day two – Tuesday

Today we have a private charter of our own boat to travel the inner coastal waters and photograph a variety of wildlife. A private charter will allow us the flexibility to travel to locations with better wildlife without time constraints and the worry of other passengers. It will also give us more room to maneuver on the boat and bring more gear.

 

Our goal species today will be black bears and brown bears, the Southern Resident Orca Whales, Transient Orca pods, Humpback Whales, Grey Whales, Minke Whales, Dall's Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Sea Lions, Bald Eagles, and a variety of marine birds are also abundant in the area.

 

Stay in two bedroom cabins in Cowichan Bay (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)

 

Day Three – Wednesday

You cannot come to the island and not experience the iconic Pacific Northwest Rainforests. We will leave our lodge after breakfast and head towards Cathedral Grove. Cathedral Grove, located in MacMillan Provincial Park, is one of the most accessible stands of giant Douglas fir trees on Vancouver Island. Here visitors can stroll through a network of trails under the shadow of towering ancient Douglas-fir trees, majestic pillars untouched by the modern world – some more than 800 years old.

 

Depending on the time of year and the salmon run, we will also head over near Port Alberni and go photograph the jumping salmon making their way up the rivers in the annual salmon spawn.

Today is also set aside to go through some computer time and look at your images from the first half of the workshop. I will offer suggestions on composition and editing to make sure your next two outings are even better than your earlier ones.

 

For those that do not need or want the computer time, you can wander through the town of Cowichan Bay and take photos along the arbour font and seaside landscapes.

 

Stay in two bedroom cabins in Cowichan Bay (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)

 

Day Four - Thursday

Today we have another private charter of our own boat to travel the inner coastal waters and photograph a variety of wildlife.

 

Our goal species today will be black bears and brown bears, the Southern Resident Orca Whales, Transient Orca pods, Humpback Whales, Grey Whales, Minke Whales, Dall's Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Sea Lions, Bald Eagles, and a variety of marine birds are also abundant in the area.

 

Stay in two bedroom cabins in Cowichan Bay (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)

 

Day Five – Friday

Once again, today is all about the sea life in the ocean around Cowichan Bay. Today we will head out for our last Whale Watching tours to focus on the Southern Resident Orca Whales, Transient Orca Whales, Humpback Whales, Grey Whales and Minke Whales. You will also encounter Sea Lions, Bald Eagles, Harbour Seals, Dalls and Harbour Porpoise as well as a myriad of marine birds on your whale watching eco tour.

 

Our whale tour on the last day begins at 8am and is scheduled to run till 11am or 12pm.

 

Once back from our tour we will pack up your gear and take you to the ferry terminal in Victoria so you can catch the ferry back to Tsawwassen. We will have you at the ferry terminal at 2pm for the 3pm ferry ride back to the mainland.

 

You should schedule your airline departures from Vancouver after 7pm from Vancouver International Airport, or the next day.

 

Please email me at kevinapepper@outlook.com

Vancouver Island Seascapes and Killer Whales Photo Tour

Step into the land of the “Group of Seven” painters and capture the essence of the Pacific Northwest. Our destination, Tofino, British Columbia.

The Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, typifies the majesty of the Pacific Northwest, boasting flawless natural beauty accentuated by a tapestry of vibrant communities.

This area inspires many renowned artists and artisans, who honor the magic of this land by bringing it into the physical realm. Add to that a climate that summons outdoor enthusiasts from all corners of the Earth and it is clear that Vancouver Island is poised to please the photographer.

In 2016 we are running a series of five workshops on Vancouver Island
Summer Season workshops are July 25, 2016 to July 31st, 2016/  August 1, 2016 to August 7th, 2016/  August 8th to August 14th, 2016
Autumn season workshops are October 17th to October 23rd, 2016/  October 24th to October 30th, 2016

Arrivals and departures: Please be in Richmond, British Columbia to be picked up at 10am on day one. Plan your departure on the last day after 5pm as we will be dropping you off in Vancouver at 2pm.

Price for the workshop in the summer is $3495.00CAD ($2780USD) $950 single supplement if you want your own cabin to yourself. You do get your own bedroom in a cabin for regular tour price.

Deposit to secure your place in the workshop is $750.00CAD

Included: All accommodation in two bedroom cabins, two ferry rides, entrance fees to Buchart gardens, all meals except that which is not covered in itinerary, all National park entrance fees, all Provincial park entry fees, 9 to 12 hours of wildlife viewing on boats, transportation

Not Included: items of personal nature, alcohol, laundry, travelers insurance, extra nights if needed.

Day One – Monday
You will be picked up at the Vancouver International airport or your hotel in Richmond near the airport. Pickup is at 10:30am.

From there we will take a ferry ride across the Georgia Strait, ending up in Nanaimo.

From Nanaimo we head west towards the west coast of Canada to your cabins.

We are located in Ucluelet at terrace beach right at the start of the Wild Pacific Trail and Amphitrite point lighthouse just south of the pacific rim national park, world famous long beach, Clayoquot sound and Tofino; and just north of the Broken Group Islands and Barkley sound.

Stay in two bedroom cabins in Ucluelet (Dinner included)

Day two – Tuesday
Today we will walk part of the Wild Pacific Trail. This easy, family-friendly trail traces the edge of reefs where shipwrecks, whales and vistas abound. You will be enthralled by Vancouver Island’s dramatic beauty and helpful interpretive signs will enrich your visit to Ucluelet’s famous 9km trail network. A perfect destination for photographers

Tonight we will visit one of the secluded beaches for a sunset photo session.

Stay in two bedroom cabins in Ucluelet (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)

Day Three – Wednesday
Today we will walk part of the Wild Pacific Trail. This easy, family-friendly trail traces the edge of reefs where shipwrecks, whales and vistas abound. You will be enthralled by Vancouver Island’s dramatic beauty and helpful interpretive signs will enrich your visit to Ucluelet’s famous 9km trail network. A perfect destination for photographers

Tonight we will visit one of the secluded beaches for a sunset photo session.

Stay in two bedroom cabins in Ucluelet (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)

Day Four - Thursday

We will leave our lodge after breakfast and head towards Cowichan Bay. On the way we will stop at Cathedral Grove. Cathedral Grove, located in MacMillan Provincial Park, is one of the most accessible stands of giant Douglas fir trees on Vancouver Island. Here visitors can stroll through a network of trails under the shadow of towering ancient Douglas-fir trees, majestic pillars untouched by the modern world – some more than 800 years old.

When we arrive in Cowichan Bay you will have the opportunity to wander the seaside town and take photos around the harbour.

After dinner we will head out our first Whale Watching tours to focus on the Southern Resident Orca Whales, Transient Orca Whales, Humpback Whales, Grey Whales and Minke Whales. You will also encounter Sea Lions, Bald Eagles, Harbour Seals, Dalls and Harbour Porpoise as well as a myriad of marine birds on your whale watching eco tour.

Stay in two bedroom cabins or lodge in Cowichan Bay (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)

Day Five – Friday

Today is all about the sea life in the ocean around Cowichan Bay. Today we will head out for two Whale Watching tours to focus on the Southern Resident Orca Whales, Transient Orca Whales, Humpback Whales, Grey Whales and Minke Whales. You will also encounter Sea Lions, Bald Eagles, Harbour Seals, Dalls and Harbour Porpoise as well as a myriad of marine birds on your whale watching eco tour.

One tour in the morning light, one in the evening light. – 6 to 8 hours on the water over two outings.

Stay in two bedroom cabins or lodge in Cowichan Bay (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)

Day Six Saturday

Today we depart for Buchart Gardens in the afternoon to Victoria. Here you will photograph the world famous Butchart Gardens is a wonderland containing spectacular theme gardens, exotic plants, streams and ponds. Ross Fountain, the famous Sunken Garden, Rose Garden and Japanese Garden are sure to create a lasting impression.

The Butchart Gardens firework shows began in 1977 and continue to be one of The Gardens’ most popular draws. The show times and dates vary from year to year, so please check below for the detailed schedule. The same show happens each Saturday but changes from year to year. If you’d like to get a sense of what our firework shows are like have a look at postings on YouTube and Flickr.

After the show we will linger a while to enjoy the Night Illuminations and a half hour live recital from the rare Aeolian Pipe Organ situated in the loft of the Organ Pavilion.

Stay in two bedroom cabins or lodge in Cowichan Bay (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)

Day Seven – Sunday

Today we wake and depart for the ferry terminal for a late morning sailing back to Vancouver. You will be dropped off at the airport by 2pm, or at your local hotel.

(Breakfast included)

Contact Kevin Allen Pepper for details at kevinapepper@outlook.com

Private Photography Tours

 

Private Photo Tours are a unique way to experience the diversity and beauty of Canada with an experienced photographer and guide that has extensive knowledge of the locations and photography style you want to experience. 

Whether you have a few days or a few weeks, we can help you explore and experience this beautiful country with an Expert Photography Instructor and guide to help you take amazing photographs, while we help you improve your skills.

As a team of professional photographers and experienced photo tour guide, we offer you an opportunity to explore Canada from a unique perspective that is designed with photography in mind.

We provide inside tips on hidden locations and the best vantage points for getting creative and professional looking images for your portfolio. We also know the history of the locations you want to visit. So, not only will you get amazing photos, you will also learn about the culture and the subject matter you are photographing.

Who should come on a private photography tour?

Whatever your camera style and skill level – from the person that just bought a camera to the experienced enthusiast, or professional that just wants to be at the right spot at the right time  – your tour is customized to your interests and skill level.

Private tours are ideal for individuals and small groups to a maximum of 4 people. A lot of our private tours are created for families, or groups of friends that want a custom tour, enjoy each others company and have someone take care of all the logistics.

When do the tours run?

Private photography tours are based on our availability, but can often be created at any location we offer, at any time of year.

Book your tour in advance to guarantee availability for your preferred departure date and time.

How much does a tour cost?
Private Photo tours are priced based on your needs. These are not cookie cutter trips that we pull off the shelf. We customize accommodation requests, food plans, transportation styles and length of trip based on our experience and your available time.

The process is a discussion on timing, desired photographs you want to take, locations and your budget. We then create an itinerary and send you all the information back to you that will satisfy and exceed your needs and expectations.

Once you are ready to book, we start the planning process and register you for your trip.

Before your vacation runs we will stay in touch with you to make sure you are prepared with the right photography gear, clothing and information on the areas we will be visiting.

A detailed itinerary is then sent to you and our travel partners, Merit Travel, can help you with your flights, travelers insurance and other needs so all you have to worry about is showing up and enjoying your Canadian experience.

Some examples of the destinations and subject matter that we can create for you are seen on the following link. Please check them out.

http://northof49photography.com/private-photography-tours-in-canada

Autumn in Ontario

 

We have owned property in the area for over a decade and have been running workshops up in this area in every season for the past three years.

For this workshop we are focused on the fall colours, the area waterfalls and the area wildlife such as Common Loons, Elk and possible Moose.

Included: Accommodation as outlined in the itinerary, food as outlined in the itinerary, transportation, airport pickup and drop off, park entrance fees, photographic guidance, beverages.
Not Included: International airfare, gratuities, travelers insurance, items of personal nature, anything not listed as included in the itinerary.

Dates: Workshop is from September 29 to October 4, 2015

Price: $1950CDN and a $750CAD deposit secures your place on this workshop.

(we have a spot for one single or one couple sharing a room)

Day One - Schedule your arrival before noon as we will pick you up in Toronto at 1pm on September 29th. We will pick you up and drive you 2 hours north to our private home on Salerno Lake. It will be a night to get acquainted, take a boat ride to go photograph the Loons that are on the lake and enjoy the quiet setting on the patio after the sun goes down to the calls of the loons as we get acquainted.
If the skies are clear at night we will head down to the docks and photograph the stars to achieve star  trail photographs of milky way images lower on the horizon.
Stay in our private home. Meals included.

Day Two- its up early and on the water to photograph the loons as they swim on the lake amidst the radiant fog that covers the morning water. After our morning shoot of the Loons we will head out for a walk in one of the local parks and forested areas. Returning later in the day for some time to go through your images, grab some dinner and have one more tour on the lake to photograph the loons in golden hour light.
If the skies are clear at night we will head down to the docks and photograph the stars to achieve star  trail photographs of milky way images lower on the horizon.
Stay in our private home. Meals included.

Day Three- Its our day to drive up to Algonquin Park. We will depart early and arrive in the park for sunrise at one of our favorite lakes in the park. After our morning shoot we will check into our hotel and have some breakfast before heading back into the park and search for the moose, pine martin, song birds and many tree lined lakes where the falls color swill reflect on the water.
We will cap off our day with a golden hour shoot at another of our favorite locations in the park. After dinner, if the skies are clear at night we will head down to the docks and photograph the stars to achieve star  trail photographs of milky way images lower on the horizon.
Stay at a Hotel near Algonquin Park. Meals included.

Day Four - Today we will be photographing a local heard of Elk that are in the area before headed down to through an area containing many pristine lakes and wooded areas that will be showing their fall colours.

Stay at our private home. Meals included.

Day Five - Its another early morning photoshoot with the Loons to give you another chance to get more images of the numerous loons on the lake. After breakfast we will head to Minden to the Gull River. Gull River is a long winding cascading waterfall. You will have the opportunity to photograph kayakers on the same course used in the 2015 Pan Am games and then head lower on the cascades and photograph the falls as it twists through the forest and around the rocks.
We will head back to our home and spend time on our laptops and computers doing some editing while we prepare a huge last night meal.
Stay at our private home. Meals included.

Day Six - You will have one final chance out on the water to photograph the loons as they take their morning swim along the banks of Salerno Lake. After your morning shoot we will take you back to the cottage for breakfast.

We will take you back to Toronto at noon and drop you off at the airport at 2pm for your flight home.
For more information please contact us through our contact us page or email us at kevinapepper@outlook.com

2015 Aurora Borealis Workshop in Northwest Territories

Join Kevin Pepper for this annual workshop in Canada's north… here we will focus on the night skies.

It is here in Yellowknife where Canada boasts the best location in the world for viewing the aurora borealis. As the nights grow longer, the green, red and mauve lights of aurora borealis, or northern lights, are absolutely brilliant in their dance across the sky.

Dates: Workshop is for five days from October 19, 2015 to October 23, 2015

Cost: $2375 Canadian ($1830USD)

Deposit: $750 Canadian ($580USD)

Day 1 - Monday

You will be picked up by our van from Yellowknife and taken to our hotel where we will check in and go for a group dinner to discuss the weeks itinerary.
If the northern lights are out, we will head out for our first night of aurora photography around the country lakes outside of Yellowknife.

Overnight at Capitol Suites where you will have suites with separate bedrooms and common area shared with one other person. (D)

Day 2 - Tuesday

Cameron Falls Trail - This 2 km round trip pathway to Cameron Falls on the Cameron River is accessible from the Ingraham Trail, 46 kilometers east of Yellowknife. The falls is a prime day trip destination with many beautiful views of the taiga landscape.

If the northern lights are out, we will head out for our night of aurora photography around the country lakes outside of Yellowknife.

Overnight at Capitol Suites where you will have suites with separate bedrooms and common area shared with one other person.

Day 3 - Wednesday

The Prospector's Trail - This is a scenic (4 km) trek across a colourful patchwork of ancient rock. With a pocket guide from the Northern Frontier Visitor’s Centre, a good pair of rubber soled shoes (and some bug dope) you can interpret the forces that formed the geological region surrounding the city. A government Geological Survey team identified gold near here in 1935. Prospectors and miners soon arrived from the south by boat, raft and aircraft and set the scene for development of Yellowknife, a gold mining community for some 70 years

If the northern lights are out, we will head out for our night of aurora photography around the country lakes outside of Yellowknife.

Overnight at Capitol Suites where you will have suites with separate bedrooms and common area shared with one other person.

Day 4 – Thursday

Yellowknife’s Old Town is a must-see for all visitors. It’s a rocky point of land, part of the City’s Great Slave Lake waterfront, with a colourful past. It was an ideal location to begin a community in the 1930s. The waterfront was once the commercial hub of the region, where float planes and barges would pull up to their moorage, and several pioneer business got their start to service the miners and trappers. Old Town is now an upscale residential and commercial area with many gift shops, restaurants, cafes, and accommodations.

Walk the historic streets of Old Town with a heritage guidebook available for free from the Northern Frontier Visitors Centre. Buildings from the 1930s rub shoulders with unique homes designed by local architects. Bush planes still tie up to the docks and land on the historic waterdomes of Back Bay. In summer, eat at the Wildcat Café, the city’s oldest restaurant, dating back to 1937. Year round, try the fish and chips cooked to order at Bullock's Bistro. Shop for your clothing needs at Weaver & Devore Trading, Yellowknife's oldest trading post in business since 1936.

Don’t miss the panoramic view from the Bush Pilots Monument. In summer, Great Slave Lake stretches to the horizon, in fall and winter, the aurora dances overhead. The monument commemorates the men and women who flew the tiny bush planes which opened the North. Hike up the stairs, the view of water, rock and the city is truly breathtaking.

If the northern lights are out, we will head out for our night of aurora photography around the country lakes outside of Yellowknife.

Overnight at Capitol Suites where you will have suites with separate bedrooms and common area shared with one other person. (D)

Day 5 – Friday

With that all things must come to an end…. We will drive you to the airport to make your flights home. Last year, some were driven right to the airport after a 6 hour northern lights show that ended right before sunrise. ;-)

Please note: We do our best to stay on schedule; however there is the possibility of delays due to factors beyond our control. We do our best to ensure you see all advertised tours within the time frame of the trip.

Included... airport pick up and drop off, transportation, Meals as detailed in the itinerary, entrance fees, guides, photography guidance

Not Included... anything not listed as included, trip insurance, alcohol, laundry, items of personal nature.

For more details, contact me at kevinapepper@outlook.com

Photograph one of Canada's largest herd of Bison

Join Kevin A Pepper (k2) and Chris Pepper for our annual workshop in Canada's north to track a bison herd.

Workshop:  September 18 to September 22, 2016

Cost: $2995 Canadian

Deposit: $750 Canadian

Included: 3 days and 2 nights of riding with Sturgeon River Ranch, including horses, guides, tipi accommodations and all meals, 2 nights at Nesslin Lake in a lakefront yurt or at Ness Creek in a boreal cabin, including all meals, transportation to and from airport

Not Included: alcohol, items of personal nature, laundry, travelers insurance, international flights


This is a true Northern Canada Safari on the Wild West Side of Prince Albert National Park. In addition to viewing the wild, free ranging bison, you may also encounter wolves, elk, moose, deer, bears and countless birds and waterfowl.

Together, we will spend 5 days and 4 nights learning to live with the land while being assured that supper, good friends, a starry sky, and possibly the northern lights, are waiting for you back at camp!

Spend 3 days and 2 nights with Sturgeon River Ranch experiencing the amazing Wild West Side of Saskatchewan’s Prince Albert National Park. We will photograph Canada’s only wild free ranging plains bison herd still within their historic range, visit rare fescue grass islands surrounded by lush forests, while enjoying the beautiful vistas along the many rivers, streams, lakes and valleys!

Spend the nights in your well-appointed tipi, view the northern lights and just breathe as your senses come alive to all the sights and sounds of the starry Western Sky, all while the flames of the campfire dance and the stories and songs of the day provide the finishing touches to a perfect day.

On nights 1 and 4, we can choose between a stunning beach front yurt at beautiful Nesslin Lake or a quaint cabin nestled in the boreal forest at Ness Creek.

Contact kevinapepper@outlook.com  chrispepperphotography@gmail.com

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