Olympus celebrated their 100th Anniversary. I was honored to be included in the accompanying video (hosted on PetaPixel’s website). Here’s the link to that piece
FirstLight Alaska Whales, Bears, and Ice , August 28 ~ September 4, 2026
We’re delighted to announce the FirstLight Alaska Photo Expedition, “Whales, Bears, and Ice” Photo Expedition, August 28-September 4, 2026.
This is our 6th Expedition aboard our favorite photographic yacht, the “Northern Song.” A unique opportunity to join our group of 6 participants, for a photography-driven experience on this wonderful boat.
Starting in Petersburg, Alaska, aboard our private, 85’ long custom expedition yacht, the “Northern Song“, and working with our Captain, we’ll have control of our plans for the week. Reacting to “what’s best” to photograph, our visual opportunities are what drives the boat. If we find a group of bubble-netting humpbacks, we’ll work that situation, until we have created great and unforgettable images. If the situation allows, we’ll even have the possibility of seeing this event from water level, aboard the highly maneuverable skiffs carried on the “Northern Song”. Being late summer we’ll have opportunities to photograph black and grizzly bears as they fatten up for the upcoming hibernation season.
Add to that, the possibility of photographing Bald eagles feeding in the waters is quite high. These beautiful birds swoop from fir branches along the waters to the surface, moving at incredible speeds and with amazing accuracy. Orcas & otters are also frequently sighted. Jay is there to provide both technical and aesthetic support to maximize your photographic opportunities.
Shy otters are also an aim of our mission, and the time is ours to spend seeking out these elusive critters.
Alaska wouldn’t be Alaska without glaciers, and if it works to our schedule, we’ll get up close and intimate with a couple of these. Water level is an amazing point of view and we should have the opportunity to see them from this dramatic angle. (This is TOTALLY weather and ice dependent!)
I’ve worked in Alaska extensively: having shot several National Geographic assignments there, as well as being the National Geographic Photographer aboard several National Geographic Expeditions in the Inside Passage. Additionally we’ve held several FirstLight Alaska Photo Expeditions, specifically aboard the “Northern Song”, thus one of the main reasons we’re going back as we love the ship and crew.
Top Photo: a “shooter” (calving from below the surface of the glacier) erupts in front of Sawyer Glacier Bottom Photo: A seal rests on glacial ice
And, speaking of the crew, we will have a chef onboard, who makes sure you never go hungry. Food is another highlight of this adventure, with three incredible meals daily, in addition to an abundance of snacks and other healthy stuff available during the day.
When our schedule allows (nightly or every other night), we’ll collect 10-15 images from each participant, project those photos and discuss what is working, how to improve your photography, and a general discussion of your images. Jay will be available at all times for technical and aesthetic input, shooting by your side on this adventure. He’ll provide valuable info on camera settings, working with light. And we’ll make sure to move the Northern Song for the best photo opps, this will be all about getting that spectacular image.
We have remaining space for 4 participants on this adventure. Two spots are taken — we’re looking for 2 couples or 2 pairs of friends to share the 2 remaining cabins.As referenced, cabins are shared, with a lower full-sized bed and the upper bunk is a single. Each shared cabin has an ensuite bathroom.
The price for this, once in a lifetime, photo adventure is $ 12,900.00; monies due are spread over 3 payments. Once you board the Northern Song the afternoon of August 28,2026, all expenses are covered, including wine, beer, all meal, ALL gratuities, until you deboard on September 4, 2026.
If you decide to join us, FirstLight STRONGLY suggests Trip Cancellation Insurance. If interested, please contact us at: jbdphoto@gmail.com Or call Jay at 303 618 1494
You can also register for this Expedition by clicking here
