2025
March 18 – 24, 2025
(ONLY 1 SPOT LEFT!)
March 25 – 31, 2025
(SOLD OUT)
Get on the waitlist.
2026
February 22 – 28, 2026
(SPACE AVAILABLE)
March 1 – 7, 2026
(SPACE AVAILABLE)
Important Details
Location: Homer, AlaskaFee:
- $6,995 per person
- Optional single supplement (private room): $500
Deposit: $1,000
Group Size: Max. 5 photographers
Duration: 7 days, 6 nights
Skill Level: Beginner to pro
Discount: Non-photographers get $250 off!
Trip Leader: Matt Shetzer
Join us in capturing the majesty of America’s national bird up close in Homer, Alaska.
Our small-group workshop offers a front-row seat to awe-inspiring encounters with these iconic birds of prey in their natural habitat. It’s an exceptional experience every wildlife photographer dreams of.
Seize this rare chance to observe and photograph more bald eagles than most people will ever see in a lifetime!
Bald Eagle Tour Highlights
Imagine standing in the pristine wilderness of Alaska, witnessing the majestic American Bald Eagle soaring freely above.
- South of Homer, where these iconic birds gather in great numbers, we have a rare chance to revel in nature’s grandeur against the breathtaking backdrop of Kachemak Bay and the iconic Homer Spit—a long, narrow strip of land extending into the bay.
- Our tours take us to scenic areas like China Poot Bay, Sadie Cove, Tutka Bay, and numerous small islands, accessible only by our state-of-the-art 33′ Coast Guard-certified landing craft.
- Each day brings new encounters with eagles congregating along the sandbars, perching majestically against the sky or roosting in dense branches, offering the thrill of capturing these moments against the serene beauty of snow-capped mountains and jagged cliffs.
- We’ll guide you to the perfect spots for photographing these iconic birds in their natural habitat. Expect a blend of adventure, learning, and unforgettable moments as you immerse yourself in the beauty of Alaska’s wilderness, capturing the spirit of the American Bald Eagle through your lens.
We’re all lined up ready to have our photo taken
Why Join This Photography Workshop?
- Your tour leader, professional photographer Matt Shetzer, has led 23 bald eagle workshops since 2010. His extensive experience ensures you’re in the best locations for that perfect shot. His hands-on guidance in the field covers everything from mastering camera settings to perfecting in-flight shots, ensuring you leave with a portfolio of stunning eagle photographs!
- Our tour is a unique opportunity to capture the majestic bald eagles of Homer, Alaska. With their impressive 7-foot wingspans, these illustrious birds are a dynamic subject to shoot, especially as they perch and dine on herring and saury provided by our team.
- Our workshop, timed with the peak eagle population in the area, promises plentiful photographic moments.
- Our flexible itinerary maximizes your experience regardless of weather conditions. We’ll spend most days in the field, capturing the eagles against the backdrop of Alaska’s pristine wilderness. But if the weather turns, we’ll pivot to indoor sessions focused on refining your techniques. We’ll cover topics like composition, lighting, and post-processing.
- We limit our group size to five photographers, for a collaborative and supportive learning experience. You’ll receive individual coaching and help throughout the trip. Our level of attention makes this trip perfect for anyone looking to advance their skills and immerse themselves in the beauty of Alaska’s wilderness, no matter their skill level.
On this unforgettable journey into the heart of Alaska’s wilderness, you’ll sharpen your photography skills while experiencing the thrill of being up close with the majestic bald eagle.
“I learned more in the first two days than I would have in six months on my own.”
— Edward, a client from Alaska
What You’ll Learn When You Join One of Our Photography Workshops
With Matt Shetzer’s expert guidance, you’ll capture the essence of these magnificent birds, from the quiet intensity of their hunt to the dramatic clashes in the sky. With small-group sizes and daily hands-on sessions, you’ll receive personalized feedback designed to help you hone your skills and confidently capture breathtaking images.
Topics We’ll Cover
- In-Flight Mastery: Techniques for sharp, dynamic eagle photos in flight.
- Camera Proficiency: Master auto-focus across scenarios, better understand exposure, and learn how to select the correct shooting mode.
- Artistic Composition: Achieve compelling compositions and use motion blur creatively.
- Post-Processing Excellence: From basic adjustments in Lightroom to advanced Photoshop techniques, including HDR imaging, color correction, and noise reduction.
Each session includes hands-on practice, with opportunities to review and process your eagle images from scratch, using non-destructive methods for the highest-quality results. We’ll discuss and review select images, uncovering what works and why to boost your skills.
This trip is more than a learning experience; it’s an opportunity to connect deeply with nature, create stunning visual narratives, and join a community of explorers passionate about wildlife.
Sign up now!Images of Bald Eagles From Our Tours
During the photography workshop, some of the bald eagle pictures you can expect to take home include:
- Close encounters with them snatching fish mid-flight, just 20-30 feet away.
- Majestic flight shots, talons clutching fish.
- Dramatic aerial battles between these magnificent birds.
- Scenes of them soaring and perching in trees.
- Intimate portraits set against soft, natural backdrops.
- Their unique behaviors, from vocal exchanges to communal interactions.
- Stunning silhouettes against the backdrop of majestic Alaskan mountain peaks.
Over 90% of Our Photo Workshop Clients Are Repeat Customers
Here’s why.
Beyond expectations: Unmatched expertise & patient guidance
In November 2021, I spent six days capturing images of bald eagles in Haines, Alaska with 5 other participants and our guide Matt Shetzer. Traveling ~3,000 miles, my expectations were relatively high to have a ‘good’ experience. My experience was more than ‘good’; it was phenomenal. Matt checked all the boxes I was hoping for plus some – knowledgeable, professional, patient, a great listener, attentive, a provider of both praise and constructive tips / hints / feedback, and the list goes on. One of many attributes that impressed me about Matt was that his passion, drive and focus was just as strong in the last few hours of our workshop as the first few hours. Matt offers a ‘best in class’ experience, and I’m already excited to attend the same workshop in November 2023.
From composition to post-processing: Conquer Alaskan challenges with Matt’s help
Matt exceeds at providing a well organized photographic expedition into a frozen landscape dotted with eagles seeking to dominate other eagles as they pull salmon after salmon out of the river. Photographing this life cycle of the salmon under cloudy, snowy, skies with temperature hovering around 10 to 30 degrees is daunting, but Matt guides you through his evening classes, nightly photo reviews, and on the scene attention in order for you to get the right exposure and composition resulting in photographs that you will want to hang on your wall at home or share with friends and relatives. If you’re looking for a workshop that encompasses all the minute details to get the photos you want to be proud of, then Matt Shetzers is the photographer you want to sign up with.
Clients rate our photo tours five out of five stars on Google.
Itinerary And Daily Schedule: Planned by a Photographer For Photographers
Our transportation for the workshop with an excellent captain and heated cabin.
Guests on the bald eagle photo tour typically fly into Homer, Alaska. After arriving in Homer, you’ll take a taxi to the hotel.
Once you reach Homer, we will handle all the trip logistics. Our state-of-the-art landing craft ensures safe and comfortable access to remote locations. The ship, a custom-built aluminum hull with a heated cabin and motorized landing ramp, helps us move around from location to location in search of eagles in the best light.
Locating eagles is our number one priority, and we’ll seize each opportunity to capture stellar pictures of these captivating birds along the scenic stretch of Kachemak Bay.
Day 1
Welcome to Homer, Alaska—a quaint town at the edge of the wilderness. After settling in, join us for a workshop talk at 4 pm, followed by an Alaskan welcome dinner to discuss the week’s exciting agenda. We’ll focus on bald eagle behavior and optimal camera settings, helping each photographer anticipate the eagle’s actions and achieve superior images throughout the week. After dinner, relax and rest. We have an early start in the morning!
Days 2-6
We’ll meet at the hotel before sunrise each day to plan our photography goals. Then, we’ll head to our boat to access remote areas.
Throughout the week, Matt will take advantage of the day’s offerings, always looking for the best opportunities for eagle photography. We also take advantage of opportunities for landscape and sunrise shots as they present themselves.
We typically spend 6 hours a day on the boat. Depending on the weather and the lighting, we’ll either do all 6 hours at once or split the day into two (2) sessions.
Early mornings start before sunrise with a brief at the hotel, followed by expeditions aboard our comfortable custom-built boat to the best photography locations. Each day offers 6 hours dedicated to capturing the majestic bald eagles, with flexibility for the best light conditions and additional landscape photography. Educational moments with Matt will enhance your shooting techniques and understanding of bird behavior.
Day 7
Our journey culminates with a celebratory breakfast. We share stories and memories of our week’s adventures before parting ways with memory cards full of breathtaking images.
Most guests opt to fly out that afternoon.
Please note that tour schedules are subject to change due to weather changes or other unforeseen events.
Book this tour now! Ask us a questionWhat You’ll See at This Premier Eagle Gathering Spot
What to Know Before You Book Your Trip
We take care of all the trip logistics once you reach Homer, Alaska, so you can focus on capturing incredible shots of Bald Eagles.
Price Includes
- Six nights in a Homer hotel. The rooms have a microwave and refrigerator.
- A 5-day charter on a custom landing craft that ensures safe and exclusive access to remote locations.
- Transportation to and from the harbor and boat.
- Comprehensive photography classes, including field instruction and photo editing sessions.
- Welcome dinner and farewell breakfast, offering opportunities to bond with your group.
- Personalized guidance in small groups (max. five photographers) for an intimate learning experience.
- Planning package including clothing recommendations and a gear list.
- A free pre-trip phone consultation with photo pro Matt Shetzer. He’ll guide you on what equipment to bring, answer questions about the locale, and give general photography advice to ensure you’re ready to capture your dream images.
Not Included
- Travel to/from Homer and local transfers.
- Most meals and personal expenses.
- Alcoholic beverages.
- Trip insurance.
- Tips for the boat captain and deckhand.
Good to Know
- Physical Requirements: This tour is suitable for individuals in average to good health who are comfortable walking on uneven terrain. If you’re concerned about the physical demands of this trip, please contact us to see if we can accommodate your needs.
- Photography Skill Level: Open to all, from beginners to professionals.
- Weather Conditions: Prepare for variable weather, from sunny days to potential rain or snow. Temperatures range from 25 to 35 degrees Fahrenheit but can certainly be outside this range.
- Camera Equipment to Bring: A telephoto lens (100-400mm), a wide-angle\landscape lens, and a tripod with a gimbal or ball head. If you need help selecting equipment, please let us know!
Booking Details
- Price: $6,995 (double occupancy), with a single accommodation option at an additional $500 per person.
- Reservation: A $1,000 deposit per person, paid by credit card at registration, secures your spot. The full payment, submitted by check or bank transfer, is required 90 days before the tour’s start date.
- Discount: Non-photographers are welcome to join us in the field and on all activities with a discount of $250 off the tour price.
- Cancellation Policy: We strongly recommend all participants purchase trip insurance purchased from a third-party operator to protect your travel investment against medical emergencies, participant trip cancellations, trip interruption and delay, weather delays, missed connections, baggage loss or delay, emergency evacuation and repatriation or simply ‘Cancel for any reason coverage’.
Because we must pay fees for reservations and leases of accommodations and transportation needs of the group far in advance of the workshop, all paid tour fees are non-refundable, non-transferable and cannot be applied to a future workshop. We run small group workshops and want to ensure the workshops are not canceled due to participant cancellations thus impacting the participants who do not cancel. All tour cancellations must be submitted in writing and will result in loss of deposit and all fees paid.
Please review our workshop terms and conditions.
Waitlist Policy
Our workshops often fill up a year in advance.
If the one you’re interested in is sold out, you can get on our waitlist for free. If a spot opens up, we contact waitlisted guests in the order they register for the waitlist.
Ready to Start Your Adventure in Alaska?
This is more than just a photography workshop; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in wildlife photography, guided by one of the best in the field.
Don’t miss out! Spaces are limited to ensure personalized guidance. Secure your spot in this once-in-a-lifetime adventure today.
Have questions? For more details, contact us or call us at 303-888-2710.
Let’s share an unforgettable photography adventure and bring home impressive photos and stories that last a lifetime!
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