Alaska Aurora Expedition
January 25 – 31, 2027
Overview
Join this trans-Alaskan photo adventure from south-central Alaska, all the way up into the Arctic Circle.
Imagine photographing the northern lights while surrounded by frozen forests and massive mountains.
We’ll be driving on ice roads, snowshoeing through thick forests, and even taking helicopters to explore stunning glaciers and mountains.
This ALL-INCLUSIVE photography workshop will take us across the entire state to photograph the absolute best that Alaska has to offer.
Group Size
Small group of 6 guests
Location
Alaska
Investment
$6500
Fitness
Moderate Hiking
What Should You Expect?
Northern Alaska was my home for many years, and I’m very passionate about sharing this magical part of the world with other people. Of all the trips I do, this is the workshop I look forward to all year.
Alaska is one of the best places on earth to see the northern lights. If the skies are clear, we will be out photographing the aurora. During aurora shooting, we will never be far from the warm vehicles. Our goal is to photograph the aurora alongside stunning landscapes.
Alaska is a LARGE state. Expect long days to get to the best places.
Several locations will have us snowshoeing and hiking in deep snow to get you the most stunning shots possible.
This trip is not only about the aurora. We’ll be flying in helicopters to photograph epic mountains, walking on frozen lakes, and exploring the vast tundra of northern Alaska.
Rural Alaska is for adventure, not luxury. This workshop is for those who want an authentic Alaskan experience and don’t mind putting in the effort for a good photo.
Education
I want to teach you everything I know about winter photography and how I go about using light, finding foregrounds and putting together compositions.
The big focus for this trip will be learning how to take stunning photos of the aurora. This requires a bit of technical precision, but I want to ensure you’re able to walk away with jaw dropping images of the northern lights.
We won’t have much downtime during this workshop. If we’re unable to find time to process your images during the tour, I will hold a zoom meeting to edit your photos at a later date.
Itinerary
Please note: this itinerary is subject to change.
Day 1
Morning welcome at our hotel in Anchorage for a quick meet-and-greet to talk about shooting techniques and other specifics to get you ready for the workshop.
After an early lunch, we’ll head further north for a doors-off helicopter flight with several landings to explore a very remote glacial valley and jagged mountain peaks. If weather cooperates, we’ll explore ice caves.
Day 2
We’ll shoot in the mighty Alaska Range, photographing big mountains and frozen rivers. Overnight in Fairbanks.
Day 3
Drive north to our small lodge at the Yukon River. There’s a nearby forest that gets covered in thick ice. We’ll be snowshoeing deep into the forest to get the most stunning compositions possible. If skies are clear, we’ll photograph the aurora while surrounded by these icy trees.
Day 4
Drive further north to Coldfoot, which lies at the base of the Brooks Range, some fifty miles north of the arctic circle. This far north, KP index does not matter. If skies are clear, we’ll shoot the aurora at the base of several massive mountains.
Day 5
Full day photographing the northern Brooks Range. Here is a land of endless tundra, blue ice rivers, and pure white mountains. Each visit is unique. Even at high noon, the sun’s low angle means we can capture great photos all day long. This night we will photograph the aurora among the pure white tundra and mountains.
Day 6
Another full day in the Coldfoot area. We can again venture further north for more photo opportunities. If the weather isn’t cooperative, we will process photos or go dog mushing with one of my friends.
Day 7
Return south to Fairbanks, stopping for sunset at the ice covered trees along the way. The workshop will conclude after a final group dinner. Lodging is included this night.
Logistics & Important Information
Plan your flights to arrive in Anchorage and depart from Fairbanks.
Alaska winter temperatures can be very extreme. Some winter trips have been a warm +20f, other times we’ve gotten down as low as -50f. We will send you winter gear recommendations.
The exact locations we visit during our helicopter ride is strictly weather dependent. Safety is a top priority. Our goal is always to get the most stunning images possible.
It’s important to be realistic about weather. While Alaskan winters are typically great for photography, clouds can happen. On any cloudy day we’ll focus on editing your photos or other winter activities.
Arctic lodging and facilities are warm but basic. One of the lodges has shared restrooms. That being said, northern Alaska offers some of the best aurora viewing opportunities on Earth, which is why we’re spending the majority of the tour there. We want you to see and capture the most stunning northern lights possible.
This workshop is all-inclusive, but food options can be limited. Please communicate any dietary needs ahead of time.
The workshop STARTS on the morning of January 25th 2027. Plan to arrive in Anchorage and be ready.
Images Captured On This Tour
Camera Gear
- Bring all your lenses along for this workshop, from 10-400mm
- Drone (Optional)
- Sturdy tripod (preferably without a center column)
- Camera bag
- L-Bracket
Personal Gear
- We will send you a list of recommended winter gear
- Micro-spikes that fit over your winter boots
- Sunglasses
- Thermos
- Headlamp
Fitness Requirements
You will need to be in moderately good physical fitness to join this workshop. Hiking distances are generally short (1/4 mile), but deep snow will make them feel longer. Even with micro spikes, ice can be slippery. You should have good balance.
Included
- 4×4 transportation
- Helicopter flight
- Single occupancy lodging
- Snowshoes
- All food and snacks
- Photographic guiding and instruction
- In-depth photoshop sessions (Recorded)
Not Included
- Transportation to and from Alaska
- Lodging before and after the workshop
- Winter weather clothing
- Alcoholic beverages
- Personal Items
- Travel Insurance
Pricing
$6500
A $2000 non-refundable deposit will hold your space for this workshop. The remaining payment is required at least 90 days prior to the start of the workshop. Sharing a room with a friend or partner will result in a $900 discount.
Cancellation Policy
Any cancellation request more than 100 days before the start of a workshop will receive a full refund minus your deposit, which can be applied toward a future tour. If you decide not to attend a future workshop, this deposit is forfeited. If you cancel within 100 days, no refunds of any kind will be issued. If you cancel your reservation within 100 days and we are able to fill your space on a tour, we will provide a full refund. Once a tour has started, no refunds will be given for missed outings, delays, weather related events, or elements beyond our control. In the event of an emergency, I’m more than happy to work with you. I highly recommend purchasing travel insurance, which covers non-refundable fees and travel expenses. Cancellation requests must be made in writing by emailing me at nickolas.warner@gmail.com