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ESCAPE TO ECUADOR

#cloudforest

#hummingbirds

#1600birdspecies

#tropical

#torrentducks

#colorsgalore

Photography Workshop in
ECUADOR
4/4/24 - 4/12/24

Birds of the Cloud Forest.

Jen Waicukauski of Looking Glass and Nikon Ambassador Kristi Odom lead this on-location photography experience in the Cloud Forest, Ecuador. The primary subject of this workshop is an incredibly diverse bird population, with over 1600 confirmed species. From the Sword-Billed hummingbird (the only bird to have a beak that is longer than its body length) to the Torrent Ducks (white water rafting ducks), it has species beyond imagination. This incredible biodiversity makes the Ecuadorian cloud forest the perfect spot to explore while creating visual works of art.

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The Experience

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The moment you spot a hummingbird in Ecuador's Cloud Forest, time seems to stand still. These feathered jewels, with their iridescent plumage and lightning-fast wings, are a breathtaking sight to behold. As they flit and hover in the air, their tiny bodies buzzing like miniature helicopters, it's easy to get lost in the magic of the moment. The forest itself seems to come alive with the hum of their wings and the vibrant colors of their surroundings. Watching these tiny birds dance around you is like witnessing a secret world come to life before your very eyes, a world where the impossible seems possible and the extraordinary is commonplace.

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With Kristi and Jen by your side throughout your time in Ecuador, you will receive hands-on guided instruction, useful insights and answers to your questions as they come up. You will learn about camera settings, receive help with your photography gear and receive ideas for tapping into your personal creative voice. Not only will you get to explore somewhere new that truly feels like you've stepped into a different world, you’ll also become a more confident photographer! In the end, you'll leave with knowledge of the local wildlife, a better understanding of the local culture, and stories and images you will be be proud to share with the world.

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We know that everyone is unique, with their own style. This adventure has been crafted to help all guests photograph birds by embracing and nurturing their unique ways of seeing the world. That said, on this adventure you decide what you want to focus on. 

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Prior to traveling to Ecuador, Jen will lead an instructional Zoom session regarding how to outfit yourself and gear up for this once in a lifetime adventure, ensuring that you have everything you need before we start our journey.  

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During the nine day escape, while at our cozy lodges, Kristi will offer skills classes that teach the following: 

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  • Autofocus settings for birds in flight

  • Using off camera lighting

  • Macro photography (for use on the unique orchid species)

  • Slow motion video

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These classes are optional, so no pressure. Like we mentioned, you decide how you approach this experience. We are your coaches that will guide and teach you along the way.

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What You'll See
(images by Jen Waicukauski)

 

Timeline & Activity Schedule

A typical day will include spending lots of time at feeders photographing hummingbirds, going on hikes to find toucans, attending demonstrations for hands-on skill development, embarking on excursions to birding hotspots (either in local national parks or community-lead birding hot spots).  There are hiking trails all around that will take you deeper into the cloud forest. The evenings can be spent relaxing by the fire with a glass of Canelazo (a traditional Ecuadorian highlands drink made from sugar cane liquor and local fruit) and sharing images from the day, or perhaps sitting on the restaurant balcony and watching for the resident Black-banded Owl to come out at night.  And to top it off, the lodges have world class, 3-course meals.

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Education

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  • A keynote introduction on photographing wildlife and putting more emotion into your wildlife images will be provided.

  • Twenty minute 1-on-1 sessions with Kristi Odom and/or Jen Waicukauski. During these sessions, you will review your raw images from your first day(s) of photographing the wildlife. These sessions are vital in making sure that your photographs are both technically correct as well as showing off your unique voice. 

  • Optional nightly group image shares with critiques for growth and critical thinking. 

  • Daily assistance during in-the-field shoots from both Kristi and Jen.

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Conservation is Core

 

At EPIC Photo Escapes, animal conservation and ethical travel are at the core of everything we do. We believe that as photographers, it is our responsibility to protect and preserve the wildlife and their habitats that we capture through our lenses. That's why we only work with outfitters and partners who share our commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism practices. We strive to ensure that our workshops not only provide incredible photographic opportunities but also make a positive impact on the environment and the local communities we visit. By promoting ethical travel and animal conservation, we aim to inspire others to use their cameras as a tool for change and help create a better world for all.

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The Process is Super Easy

RESERVE

After you review the Trip Agreement and have your questions answered, reserve your favorite adventure with a deposit or full registration.

WELCOME

We'll send you an official welcome letter with more details. We'll also send you the Trip Agreement to sign electronically via secure Docusign.

ZOOM

When we're closer to the Trip Date, we'll schedule a Zoom chat with group to go over preparation recommendations as well as answer questions.

ADVENTURE

It's time! We'll all fly in on our various flights to our first get-together as a group! Let the adventure, great wildlife experiences & photography begin!

Your Instructors

You're In Good Company.

  • How close do we get to the bears?
    Bears are individuals just like people. Each bear will have a different tolerance level for how close it will be comfortable with us approaching it. We often approach to 50 yards and bears will occasionally wander past us as close at 15 yards. Our guides are able to read the bear's body language and know just how close is a safe distance. We have many bears that we have identified and watched for years. There are a few sows that we have watched raising 3 generations of cubs. These momma bears have learned that we are not a threat to their cubs and will often come lay down to nurse very close to us.
  • What can you tell me about the meals?
    The lodge has a long standing reputation for fine dining. Meals prepared fresh daily under the experienced eye of our chef. We cater to both meat lovers and vegetarians. If you have special dietary restrictions please let us know a month before our trip.
  • Is there a weight limit on baggage?
    No weight limit! Your first 50 pounds is free. You will be charged $1.60 per pound excess baggage fee by the air service for anything over 60 LBS but there is no limit as to how much you can bring provided you are willing to pay for the overage.
  • How do I get to the final destination of Iliamna?
    To get to the Lodge you will need to make flight arrangements from Anchorage to the remote Village of Iliamna. There is no road access to this wilderness. You will need to catch a flight from Anchorage to Iliamna with Lake & Peninsula Air (907-781-2228). The roundtrip cost is around $600.
  • How many guests can stay at the lodge?
    Only 12 guests will be at the lodge during your stay. We prefer the dynamics of a small personalized operation so we can customize each day's activities to the desire of our guest. We split into two or 3 groups each day. With 1 guide for every 4-6 guests.
  • Does the lodge have Internet and phone service?
    Cell Phones will not work. There is a lodge satellite phone that you are free to use for non international calls. Our satellite Internet has very limited bandwidth so only emails that do not have attachments can be sent or revived.
  • What wildlife might we see?
    Bears, Walrus, Wolves, Eagles, and Dall Sheep.
  • Is late June a good time to photograph bears?
    Late June is a great time to photograph bears! The bears are often walking on the low tides to search for claims. They also spend a lot of time roaming the fields looking for berries. It is also a great time to see little cubs. Salmon begin to arrive in late June, and that is when the fishing can start. And of course, this time of year typically offers weather that is wonderful for hiking and treks!
  • How physically demanding should we expect this Workshop/Trek to be?
    This trip can have a lot of hiking involved. You will need to be able to hike up to 10 miles in the rugged Alaskan wilderness carrying all your camera gear for the day. We will mostly be off trail and in the real wilderness. Hiking will take place in our waders as some parts may be hiking over rocks hidden in flowing water. You will also need to be able to get on and off small float planes.
  • What are the lodging accommodations like?
    The main lodge, is right on the shore of the lake and the gathering place for our guests. You'll enjoy the warmth and atmosphere around the stone fireplace reliving the day's adventure, project images on a large screen, play pool, and plan tomorrow's adventures, all while taking in a 180 degree panoramic view of Alaska's largest lake and the glacial filled mountains of the Alaska Peninsula. We have 5 comfortable cedar guest cabins next to the main lodge. Each cabin has a private bathroom, shower with unlimited hot water, heaters with thermostat so you can set the heat where you like it. There are 2 full sized beads in each cabin and you should expect double occupancy.
  • What happens if there is a medical emergency?
    We will be in remote Alaska but are incredibly fortunate to have a fully equipped medical clinic only 7 miles from the lodge that is accessible 24 hours a day, emergency evacuations are always available. Guides carry Satellite phones during the day.
  • How physically demanding are the wildlife safaris?
    Our safari vehicles will be doing all the work. So sit back and enjoy being driven around to see, experience and photograph the wildlife.
  • Do you have a recommendation for travel insurance?
    We do not necessarily have a recommendation at this time, but we personally use a policy by Allianz Global.
  • How many guests are in each safari vehicle?
    Maximum 4 guest in our 4x4 land cruiser (that seats 7 in the back), so you will have a window seat and lots of room for your gear.
  • Does Kenya require that we have a travel VISA?
    Yes, Kenya currently does require a visa. It is an easy online application that needs to be done before travel.
  • What animals might be we see on this adventure?
    Lions, leopard, cheetah, zebras, giraffes, elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, wild dogs, serval cats, antelopes, kongoni, lesser kudu, Oryx, klipspringer, impala, stripped hyena, ostriches, gazelles, buffaloes and many more. Kenya also has a ton of beautiful bird life, my favorites being the Secretary Bird, Hornbill and the Lilac Breasted Roller.
  • Will we have Internet and/or phone service?
    The lodges will have spotty wifi services. We have found that we often get reception with our international T-Mobile plan inside the game parks. We are happy to provide our phone number (in the case of an emergency only) to family back home.
  • What shots and vaccines will I need prior to traveling to Kenya?
    You will need to talk to your own travel doctors about your recommended shots and medications. To get an idea, we usually check the Traveler's Health area on the CDC website for Kenya.
  • How do I get to the workshop location?
    You will need to fly in to and out of Nairobi International Airport. On the last day make sure you have an evening flight that departs after 8pm (most flights are around 11pm).
  • Is February a good time for encountering wildlife in Kenya?
    We have been back and forth to Kenya since 2006 and can truthfully say, February is our favorite month. Not only is the wildlife in abundance, but the tourism is down. When we asked our guide what his favorite month is, he immediately said February, which is what started our February trips. Being the dry season, animals gather at the watering holes that make it easy to see and photograph while the migratory birds fly overhead.
  • What happens if there is a medical emergency?
    One of the drivers can help take you to seek medical care. We do require that everyone has medical insurance. If this is a concern, we recommend talking to your insurance company about what it provides. Some policies will even do medical evacuations so you can get treated at home.
  • What animals might we see?
    Wildlife sightings can vary based on factors like weather, luck, and the specific habitat we're exploring. We hope to see Polar Bears, Arctic Hares, Arctic Foxes, Red Foxes, Ptarmigans, and other birds.
  • Do we need a travel VISA for this workshop?
    Canada does not currently require US citizens to have a visa for stays under 180 days.
  • What type of vehicle will we be in as we travel to see the wildlife?
    We are not in one of those huge 40-person tundra buggies that are common for polar bear trips, instead we are in 4x4 GMC Savanna vans with doors on both sides and step stools for easy access. Originally configured for 10 passengers they have been modified to fit 5 photographers comfortably.
  • Do you have a recommendation for travel insurance?
    We don't necessarily have a recommendation, but we personally use a policy by Allianz Global.
  • How many guests are in each of these vehicles?
    Maximum 4 guests, one instructor and one guide in each vehicle.
  • Is November a good time to photograph Polar Bears?
    Yes! This time of year is often referred to as the "Polar Bear Season" in Churchill because it coincides with the annual migration of polar bears to the shores of Hudson Bay as they wait for the sea ice to form. The congregation of polar bears near the coast during this time means that there is a higher chance of encountering multiple bears, making it easier to capture various behaviors and interactions.
  • How physically demanding is this adventure?
    Our vehicles will be doing most of the work. We can sit back and enjoy being driven around to see and experience the wildlife, while capturing the moments with our cameras.
  • How do I get to the workshop location?
    You will need to fly into Winnipeg on November 13th and out again on August 20th. You are welcome to arrive early (early arrival is encouraged in case of flight cancellations or delays), but all costs outside of our trip dates will be your responsibility. From Winnipeg, you will fly to Churchill. The Canada domestic flight is included in the Trip price and scheduled for you by Epic Photo Escapes. The flight to Winnipeg from your location and back home again is NOT included in the Trip price.
  • What type of vehicle will we be in as we travel to see the wildlife?
    We are not in one of those huge 40-person tundra buggies that are common for polar bear trips, instead we are in 4x4 GMC Savanna vans with doors on both sides and step stools for easy access. Originally configured for 10 passengers they have been modified to fit 5 photographers comfortably.
  • How physically demanding is this adventure?
    Our vehicles and zodiacs will be doing all the work. So sit back and enjoy being driven around to see and experience the wildlife.
  • Do we need to be vaccinated to attend this workshop in Canada?
    Currently Canada requires all non-Canadian citizens aged 18 and over entering the country to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
  • How do I photograph Belugas?
    While we can’t get in the water with the whales, underwater shots are quite easy with GoPro devices, phones with underwater housings, and cameras with underwater housings.
  • How many guests are in each of these vehicles?
    Maximum 4 guests, one instructor and one guide in each vehicle.
  • What animals might we see?
    While no wildlife is guaranteed, that is why it is wild, we hope to see Polar Bears, Belugas, Arctic Hares, Arctic Foxes, Ptarmigans, Bald Eagles and a variety of other birds.
  • Do we need a travel VISA for this workshop?
    Canada does not currently require US citizens to have a visa for stays under 180 days.
  • Do you have a recommendation for travel insurance?
    We don't necessarily have a recommendation, but we personally use a policy by Allianz Global.
  • Is August a good time to photograph Polar Bears?
    National Geographic and other publications have been showing lots of photos recently of Polar Bears amongst the fireweeds, which is from this time of year. We believe that there are compelling images of the polar bears on land. According to our tour operator there is very little tourist traffic at this time, and it isn't uncommon to see and mom with her cub for a full hour with no other people around. Plus, it is the best time of year for the overlap of Polar Bears, Belugas and Northern Lights. Also, a huge bonus is that it will not be 40 below, which to us is a big plus.
  • How do I get to the workshop location?
    You will need to fly into Winnipeg on August 13th and out again on August 19th. You are welcome to arrive early (early arrival is encouraged in case of flight cancellations or delays), but all costs outside of our trip dates will be your responsibility.
  • Does the lodge have Internet and phone service?
    Cell Phones will not work. There is a lodge satellite phone that you are free to use for non international calls. Our satellite Internet has very limited bandwidth so only emails that do not have attachments can be sent or revived.
  • What wildlife might we see?
    Bears, Walrus, Wolves, Eagles, and Dall Sheep.
  • How close do we get to the bears?
    Bears are individuals just like people. Each bear will have a different tolerance level for how close it will be comfortable with us approaching it. We often approach to 50 yards and bears will occasionally wander past us as close at 15 yards. Our guides are able to read the bear's body language and know just how close is a safe distance. We have many bears that we have identified and watched for years. There are a few sows that we have watched raising 3 generations of cubs. These momma bears have learned that we are not a threat to their cubs and will often come lay down to nurse very close to us.
  • What are the lodging accommodations like?
    The main lodge, is right on the shore of the lake and the gathering place for our guests. You'll enjoy the warmth and atmosphere around the stone fireplace reliving the day's adventure, project images on a large screen, play pool, and plan tomorrow's adventures, all while taking in a 180 degree panoramic view of Alaska's largest lake and the glacial filled mountains of the Alaska Peninsula. We have 5 comfortable cedar guest cabins next to the main lodge. Each cabin has a private bathroom, shower with unlimited hot water, heaters with thermostat so you can set the heat where you like it. There are 2 full sized beads in each cabin and you should expect double occupancy.
  • How physically demanding are the wildlife safaris?
    Our trips are Moderate Difficult but tailored to your individual needs. With our 4 bush planes, jet boats, rafts and kayaks we can accommodate anyone in reasonable shape. You should be able to walk 4 miles a day to consistently see wildlife from the ground.
  • What can you tell me about the meals?
    The lodge has a long standing reputation for fine dining. Meals prepared fresh daily under the experienced eye of our chef. We cater to both meat lovers and vegetarians. If you have special dietary restrictions please let us know a month before our trip.
  • What happens if there is a medical emergency?
    We will be in remote Alaska but are incredibly fortunate to have a fully equipped medical clinic only 7 miles from the lodge that is accessible 24 hours a day, emergency evacuations are always available. Guides carry Satellite phones during the day.
  • How many guests can stay at the lodge?
    Only 12 guests will be at the lodge during your stay. We prefer the dynamics of a small personalized operation so we can customize each day's activities to the desire of our guest. We split into two or 3 groups each day. With 1 guide for every 4-6 guests.
  • How do I get to the final destination of Iliamna?
    To get to the Lodge you will need to make flight arrangements from Anchorage to the remote Village of Iliamna. There is no road access to this wilderness. You will need to catch a flight from Anchorage to Iliamna with Lake & Peninsula Air (907-781-2228). The roundtrip cost is around $600.
  • Is there a weight limit on baggage?
    No weight limit! Your first 50 pounds is free. You will be charged $1.60 per pound excess baggage fee by the air service for anything over 60 LBS but there is no limit as to how much you can bring provided you are willing to pay for the overage.
  • Is September a good time to photograph bears?
    The lodge owner expressed that this was his favorite time of year! Here is what he said: “The truth is if you have the access and know where to go, bears are actively fishing from late June until mid October. My personal favorite time is the first 3 weeks of September. The weather may not be as good and we are more likely to lose a day because of weather conditions, but the fall colors make for a fantastic backdrop.”
  • How close do we get to the birds?
    The hummingbirds use the feeders all around the lodge. So close sometimes that we find using a 70-200mm lens works great!
  • Does the lodge have Internet?
    While the lodges have wifi, it can occasionally go out. But for the most part, yes.
  • Who do you recommend for Travel Insurance?
    We do require travel insurance for our trips. Most airlines have an option to add on a policy when buying your flights. We personally use Allianz Global.
  • Can you tell me more about the food/meals?
    The lodge has a long-standing reputation for fine dining. Meals prepared fresh daily under the experienced eye of our chef. We cater to both meat lovers and vegetarians. If you have special dietary restrictions, please let us know a month before our trip. The chefs use local and in season fruits, herbs and vegetables from local communities and sometimes from their own gardens. Please let us know if you have any dietary requirements and/or allergies.
  • How many guests are at the lodge?
    All our lodges are small lodges, so not many other guests. Each lodge may have day tours that come through so you will notice more people at lunch time.
  • How physically demanding will this trip be?
    As demanding as you want it to be. Most of the photography will take place at the lodge. We have short trails all around the lodges that you have the option of taking to find toucans and other birds.
  • Is April a good time to photograph birds? 
    Yes! The birds are very active at this time and in abundance.
  • Do you recommend insurance for camera gear?
    I do recommend insurance for camera gear, and it can be as easy as calling whoever you use for your home or auto. I personally have a policy with PPA. Make sure and ask for a policy that covers you internationally.
  • Do you have advice regarding the high altitude of this location?
    Quito lies at just above 9,000 feet in elevation. We suggest avoiding alcohol on your flight over and until you acclimatize. If you are prone to altitude sickness please talk with your doctor and consider arriving a day or two early to rest up before our trip. While the activity level is low, please take it easy when arriving and drink lots of water.
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