Spring in the Chilcotin region of British Columbia offers a stunning backdrop for photographing birds in their natural habitat. As the flowers bloom and the landscape awakens, birdwatchers and bird photographers can capture the vibrant colors and lively behaviors of species. Whether you’re an amateur or a seasoned photographer, the breathtaking scenery and diverse avian make for an unforgettable experience. Embrace the beauty of spring and let your camera tell the story of these remarkable creatures.

This workshop is ideal for bird lovers and nature lovers. Species include Mountain Blue Birds, Canada Goose, Common Loon, Arctic Tern, Merganser, Western Tanager, Yellow Headed Blackbird, Rufous Hummingbird, Wood Duck, Golden Eye, Red Napped Sap Sucker, Harry Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Swallows, Kingfisher, and more. 

 

​May 13-19 2025 / May 13-19 2026 / May 13-19 2027 

Flight Destination:  Williams Lake (YWL)  ( Short flight from Vancouver (YVR) with Pacific Coastal Airlines
Price:  $3995.00 USD   Deposit $1500 USD . Single Supplement $Free  Balance due 90 day prior to workshop start. 

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Included: Professional Photo Instruction and Guiding. Price above includes all accommodations  and meals and waders for photographing ducks at the marshlands.  Land transportation during workshop.  Airport pickup and drop off. We offer lens rentals and tripod rentals, please inquire for details info@hemmingsphototours.com 

Not Included: International airfare to place of tour origin. Additional tips for staff such as guides and camp staff. Fees for passport, visas, immunizations and insurance. 

Physical Activity Level: Basic 

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WORKSHOP OVERVIEW
ITINERARY

​N1-Arrival at Williams Lake Airport (YWL) on the pm  flight. Airport pick up.  We drive  2 and 1/2 hours through the country range and into the mountains at 3800 feet to Eagle Bear Lodge. Along the way we will keep our eyes open for photo opportunities. 

 

Eagle Bear Lodge located in the Chilcotin area is designed with custom bird feeding stations and has active bird nature trails with a variety of nesting birds annually. Eagle Bear Lodge with stunning views, facing the Nuit Mountain Range reflecting on Eagle Lake where Arctic Terns have nesting sites and American Pelicans arrive annually. 

N2- N7 - During these days you will be guided and provided professional photo instruction including bird-flight photography to some unique and productive bird sites. Along the way at this time of year you may even get a chance photograph a bear and also enjoy taking photographs of the wild horses in the area. Be sure to bring your landscape lens as the area has a variety of spectacular landscapes. 

Recommended Equipment:
Weather in the month of May in the Cariboo Chilcotin can be quite varied. This year it looks as though we are having an early and warm spring. Daytime highs average between 16-20 C, or 61-70 F. Mornings can be cool but not cold averaging around 8-12 C or around 50-55 F.

 This area is a semi-arid region and does not usually receive much rainfall during the month of May. We can get rain from time to time, therefore, it is best to be prepared for that both for your body and your camera gear.

 We are generally at an altitude of 3800 ft or 1285 meters. The sun is very intense during the afternoons so be prepared. 

 Clothing to bring:  Comfortable safari type pants, loose fitting, fast drying.

 T- shirts, cotton loose fitting shirts, sweaters and a good jacket that doubles as a windbreaker and a rain jacket preferably with a hood. Fleece or cotton hoodies work well. Medium thickness good quality hiking socks. A good quality pair of waterproof hiking shoes or ankle boots. We will supply rubber boots and waders when and if necessary.  Sunglasses, sunscreen and a sunhat.  We will supply bug repellent

Equipment Checklist

 Camera body and lens combination that will give you up to a minimum of 500mm reach.

 Lenses such as a 150-600mm, 100-500, 200-600mm or fixed focal lengths of 500 or 600mm.

 A second camera body as a back up or to keep another wide-angle lens on.

 A lens for shooting scenery and landscapes in the range of 24mm to 200mm.

 A sturdy tripod for when we are shooting at perch set ups.

 Laptop for processing pictures at the lodge (if you wish).

 Memory cards. External portable hard drive. Extra camera batteries. You should have at least 2.

 Water protection for your camera gear.

Please read the Refund Policy. Do not book your flight until we confirm.

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