Early Winter Photography Weekend
with Darwin Wiggett

E5:   Wednesday, 10th November to Sunday, 14th November 2010 - 4 nights E5:   Wednesday, 9th November to Sunday, 13th November 2011 -4 nights         
(this event is all outdoors with some general review sessions and presentations in the evenings - suitable for all levels and any media)


Photo by Darwin Wiggett,
taken near Aurum Lodge in November 2004

Join acclaimed photographer Darwin Wiggett and your host Alan Ernst on this latest of our nature photography outings. The date for this event, at the beginning of the winter season, was chosen to accommodate the many requests for dawn and dusk skies and the combination of open water and ice. Early November to mid December is generally the best time of year for: colourful sunrises and sunsets, warm light throughout the day with a low angled sun, clear skies without haze (ideal for nighttime photography and star trails too), mist rising off the water in the mornings and a combination of open water and ice along the shore lines of Abraham Lake and our many rivers. With a little luck, we may also be able to witness the Bighorn sheep rut in the National Park. Usually, at this time of year, the mountain tops will be covered in snow, whereas the valley bottoms may still be dry or only have a light snow cover. However, temperatures can be significantly below freezing already and there is a possibility of snow squalls of course. Thus, as always, participants should be prepared for everything.

The tour will be similar in scope to the successful winter workshops, now going into our seventh season. Flexibility is the name of the game, so participants can optimise their time in the field and hopefully return with many stunning images. You should be able to hike short distances over rough terrain (1 - 2 km) with your gear. Participants will receive a list of equipment suggestions a few weeks before the event.

Transportation to and from the lodge is the responsibility of participants (we will assist in putting you in touch with others who may wish to offer a ride or prefer to car pool to get here).

For more information on Darwin Wiggett please visit www.darwinwiggett.com

Package is C$ 1179 per person (2010)
                   C$ 1239 per person (2011)

  • Three nights accommodation at Aurum Lodge plus one overnight in Jasper (single occupancy).
  • Four dinners, breakfasts and lunches
  • Excursions in the area - we will share carpooling
  • Wednesday night meeting to discuss the interests and expectations of the group and an introductory slide show.
  • Friday night - Darwin will provide an open portfolio review of all participants work (bring 12 prints or slides for review). Peer discussion is encouraged.
  • Saturday Night - open discussion about any aspect of photography.
  • In case of inclement weather, other indoor sessions can be arranged including digital enhancement of pictures
  • Personalized instruction and shooting experience with one of Canada's premier nature photographers. We will spend most of our time in the field creating stunning images. Darwin will be there at all times to guide and assist you in developing your personal photographic vision.
  • Maximum No. of participants is 6 to 7.