What makes a northern river expedition special compared to other photography destinations?
Canada’s North is defined by vast, intact landscapes – some of the last on the planet! With endless opportunities for hiking, paddling, wildlife watching and cultural immersion, it is no surprise that it draws those seeking unique and fulfilling experiences!
From the Nahanni’s arresting geographical diversity to captivating stories and quiet moments of cultural connection with local communities, there are a myriad of reasons why the North rivals destinations like Iceland and Patagonia as one of the best for photographers to visit!
If you have an eye for capturing the moment, read on to find out why a river journey with Canadian River Expeditions will leave you with photos – and memories – to last a lifetime!
What will I photograph on an expedition with Nahanni River Adventures & Canadian River Expeditions?
Bold, Breathtaking Landscapes – Rugged Panoramas and Gorgeous Landscape Shots
The North offers some of the most visually diverse and dramatic landscapes on Earth. From the vast expanses of the Arctic tundra to the jagged spires and high relief cirques of the Mackenzie and Coast Mountains, northwestern Canada has an incredible geological diversity to satiate any photographer’s thirst for exquisite panoramas.
Our multi day canoe and raft expeditions serve as conduits to explore the remote wildlands we travel through and the history and ecology within them. Whether you are framing the mystery beneath the waves of an ancient river, the timeless solitude of the Barrenlands or the sublime majesty of Canada’s deepest canyons, the Arctic’s unspoiled beauty never fails to inspire.
Endless Golden Hours – the Unique Lighting of the North
Here in the North, we are blessed with continuous daylight in the summer months. For photographers, this means dreamlike conditions for shooting.
The Midnight Sun beaming throughout June and July creates endless opportunities to snap the perfect shot. High in the Arctic tundra, the sun never sets, granting 24 hour daylight to capture lifelong memories.
Further south in the Yukon and Northwest Territories, the sun dips below the horizon for a mere couple of hours, creating prolonged alpenglow and long hours of that perfect golden lighting. This soft, diffused light provides perfect conditions for both dramatic landscape shots and intimate portraits at camp.
World Class Night Skies – Astrophotography and Northern Lights
As the drama of summer progresses, the night skies darken once again in August and the aurora take centre stage once more. Canada’s Northwest Territories are renowned for being the best location in the world to view the northern lights, thanks to their remote location and lack of light pollution under the auroral oval.
A Nahanni River canoe and raft expeditions offer the chance to immerse yourself in an authentic wilderness adventure in Canada’s deepest canyons, whose towering limestone walls bound the edges of the night sky.
We dream of the scene of campfires after a full day’s adventure, while watching the northern lights dance. An indelible experience we can vouch for!
Canada’s Wildest Wildlife – Grizzlies, Musk Ox, Caribou and More!
Far from the populated hubs of the south, northern Canada boasts unspoiled nature and vibrant wildlife populations. Tundra River expeditions such as the Firth River offer front row seats to experience intimate encounters with iconic northern species such musk ox, caribou, moose, grizzly bears and gyrfalcons.
Our Tatshenshini and Alsek River expeditions are known for their grizzly and black bear sightings during the mid summer salmon run, as well as captivating birds of prey such as bald eagles and peregrine falcons.
Our Taseko-Chilko-Chilcotin River journeys are timed to coincide with southerly avian migrations of species including American white pelicans, yellow rail and Arctic tern. This area is rich in non-avian species too; there is even a population of wild horses residing between the Chilko and Taseko Rivers.
On the Nahanni River, Canada’s deepest canyons offer captivating spectacles of Dahl sheep on the canyon rims. Set against the backdrop of Northern Canada’s rugged beauty, a wilderness river expedition offers unparalleled opportunities to frame some of North America’s most emblematic creatures.
People & Culture – Portrait Shots on the River
The North is a complex tapestry of Indigenous, settler and recent immigrant history and influences. Each watershed resounds with echoes of the past, and every face has a story to tell.
Whether it is a visit to the rotunda of Nahanni Butte in the NWT, Long Ago People’s Place in the Yukon or Bullocks Bistro’s Patio in Whitehorse, the chance to capture the essence of the North exists around each corner.
Each river journey allows you to connect meaningfully and respectfully with the people, places and their histories. For those with a passion for photography, it offers a relaxed and inspiring environment to ignite your creative spark!
Tyler GarnhamWhat photography equipment should I bring with me on a river expedition with Nahanni River Adventures & Canadian River Expeditions?
Guide and professional photographer Tyler Garnham says that a good camera backpack is the one piece of equipment he always ensures he brings on expeditions.
“This helps me take my gear with me and still be comfortable. If it’s not comfortable and easy to access, you won’t bring it or use it!”
How do I keep my camera equipment safe from water and weather on expedition?
“I have an old waterproof stuff sack for a sleeping bag,” says Tyler. “I cut a hole in the bottom and put my lens through it, a homemade solution that works great!”
Owner-outfitter Joel Hibbard recommends a pelican case to look after your camera gear on the river. These keep them drive and protected while travelling.
We offer the 1200 Protector Case to rent, but guests are welcome to bring their own too.
When can I capture photos during the day?
It’s not all paddling on our expeditions! Each of our itineraries is carefully crafted to allow time to explore our watersheds at your own pace. We aim to arrive in camp in the mid afternoon, so you can have time to soak in the scenery and explore on foot.
Hikes are a major part of our river journeys too – most of our expeditions feature layover days dedicated entirely for hiking, or relaxing in camp on your own terms.
For raft guests, your guides will do the rowing – leaving you to snap shots as much or as little as you want!
When is the best time to visit northern Canada as a photographer?
Summer in the North is short but sublime, with each month offering a unique experience.
- Early expeditions in June offer enchanting wildflower displays in tundra and alpine meadows.
- Mid summer is the apex of animal activity – perfect for wildlife photographers.
- August trips offer vibrant fall colours, morning mists and exquisite night skies – ideal for astrophotographers and those who dream of capturing the aurora.
What is the best river for photographers?
We don’t offer photography-specific expeditions, however our dedicated Expedition Planning Team would be happy to chat with you to discuss how you can get the most out of your trip for your photography.
A private expedition offers the opportunity to tailor dates, timelines and other expedition features to your group’s needs. If you have an idea in mind, we’d love to chat further with you!
Many of our guides are passionate photographers themselves. They are always happy to help on the river and often have a few handy tips they have learnt from their time in the North.
“The Firth offers incredible opportunities to capture intimate wildlife portraits,” says Joel. “Travelling above the treeline means we often spot many of the Arctic’s iconic species – including caribou, musk ox, wolves, moose and grizzly bears. We even frequently see belugas and bowhead whales off Nunaluk Spit!”
“I also love the Nahanni for the sheer scale of its landscapes – nothing quite beats capturing the northern lights dance over Canada’s deepest canyons!”
One of our past guests, Christian, perfectly sums up his experience: “If photography is your hobby you will be very busy. There are great opportunities both for landscape and animal photography. Just make sure you bring an extra memory card or two for the thousands of photos you will bring home to wow your family and friends!”
How do I sign up for an expedition with Nahanni River Adventures & Canadian River Expeditions?
In a northern summer, light dances across the sky in an optical illusion, landscapes are filled with narratives and life, and every face holds a story to be told. Whether you are wanting to advance your professional craft or simply create memories for years to come, Canada’s North offers a unique and insightful photography experience.
Browse our itineraries and departure dates or reach out to our friendly Expedition Planning Team today to start planning your photography adventure of a lifetime!
