Backcountry Journeys –Yosemite in Winter 1
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Yosemite in Winter
“Keep close to Nature's heart... and break clear away, once in awhile,
and climb a mountain or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit
clean.”
-John Muir, Yosemite Valley
Pricing, Dates & Booking
For current pricing, trip dates
& online reservations please
see our website.
Trip Packets
Our PDF Trip Packets are being
updated all the time. Ensure you
have the most recent version by
clicking here.
Last Published: June 16, 2020
Backcountry Journeys –Yosemite in Winter 2
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Trip Overview
Experience the beauty of Yosemite National Park during winter!
Photograph this iconic park during its least visited season when the
vastness of Yosemite is covered in pillows of white snow. Winter is an
absolutely magical time to visit Yosemite and work on some incredible
landscape photography opportunities.
This is a unique opportunity to photograph Yosemite Valley during the
stunningly beautiful winter season. Yosemite is one of the most unique
natural wonders on our planet and in winter provides jaw dropping
opportunities for landscape photography and wildlife! The light is
beautiful in the winter and the colors are vibrant making for superb
snowy landscape photography opportunities. We schedule this trip in
late February to potentially take advantage of Yosemite’s famous “Fire
Fall” event but the main purpose of this trip is to photograph the
beauty of Yosemite when the entire valley is covered in snow!
Backcountry Journeys –Yosemite in Winter 3
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
This photography excursion features full days of photography from
sunrise to sunset as we visit carefully selected locations in the best
possible light, taking our time (key for us photographers!) exploring and
photographing. We’ll hit the iconic spots such as Half Dome, El Capitan,
Bridalveil Falls, Gates of the Valley and Tunnel View as well as many
off the beaten path locations most visitors don’t know about.
This Yosemite photography tour will be based out of our quaint & cozy
lodge right inside Yosemite Valley! Each evening after our photography
session we will return to the lodge for some rest and relaxation and a
great meal at their restaurant.
You’ll get ample one on one time with your instructor and improve your
photography in one of the world’s most beautiful and iconic locations.
Aside from the fun you’ll experience with your fellow photographers
you’ll leave this trip with a highly expanded portfolio of excellent
images and a wealth of memories. Join us today for the trip of a lifetime
to Yosemite National Park in winter!
Please note: For those wishing to photograph the annual Yosemite
Firefall, park regulations require that we must walk to the site.
Backcountry Journeys –Yosemite in Winter 4
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Highlights • Winter Landscape Photography in America’s Iconic National
Park
• Photograph dramatic winterscapes
• Cooler temperatures mean far fewer tourists
• Small Groups
• Return to our cozy lodge each night to unwind
• Top-notch meals, excellent lodging included
• Learn from & shoot alongside a seasoned pro
Backcountry Journeys –Yosemite in Winter 5
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Noteworthy Travel Logistics • This trip begins & ends in Fresno, California
• We will meet at 5pm at the
Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Fresno Convention Center*
2233 Ventura Street, Fresno, California, 93721, USA
+1-559-268-1000
*Please note: Exact hotel is subject to change - equivalent hotel may be substituted.
If you are planning on arriving early or staying late please contact us.
• The airport to fly in/out is Yosemite Fresno International (FAT)
• We should be back in Fresno no later than 2pm on the last day of
the trip.
• Your hotel will have a complimentary airport shuttle – just give
them a call 24 hours in advance to schedule!
Transportation On-Tour • We will provide transportation throughout the trip from Fresno,
CA to Yosemite National Park and back. If you have a vehicle you
can leave it at our lodge inside Yosemite National Park, but please
be aware of Yosemite’s tire chain rules
Backcountry Journeys –Yosemite in Winter 6
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Itinerary Please note: This is a “standard” tour so there is little to no hiking on this trip Most meals included – (B,L,D) denotes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day One (Travel Day)(D)
We will meet at our lodge in Fresno, California at 5pm the first
evening of the trip for an orientation and welcome dinner.
Day Two (B,L,D)
This morning we will arise early and head up into Yosemite Valley.
We’ll spend the morning photographing the Giant Sequoias of the
Mariposa Grove under pillows of snow and we’ll explore Yosemite
Valley. After lunch we’ll check-in to our lodge and get settled for the
next few days. This evening’s photo shoot will be at a spectacular
location overlooking the entire valley.
Day Three (B,D)
Our morning shoot will take us to a quaint beach along the Merced
River where wintry reflections of El Capitan will be our photographic
goal. There are many fantastic compositions to be had along the idyllic
mountain river – especially when the crowds are gone, and winter is
in full-swing. Magical. After our morning shoot we’ll head in for lunch
and photo reviews followed by a short break. This evening we will
shoot from another stunning location in the valley with expansive
views of the sun setting on Half-Dome as its glow is reflected in the
river. After a great shoot we’ll head in and grab an excellent dinner at
our lodge!
Day Four (B,D)
After breakfast we’ll head up to Lower Yosemite Falls and take
advantage of the beautiful mid-morning light on this famous
waterfall. Later we’ll also head over and photograph another
Backcountry Journeys –Yosemite in Winter 7
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
important Yosemite cascade – Bridal Veil Falls. We’ll spend the rest of
today in search of wildlife and take a midday break from shooting to
go over our images.
This evening we’ll head to a beautiful snowy meadow and photograph
Yosemite in the warm-glow of a winter sunset.
Day Five (B,L,D)
Our morning shoot today is an inspirational view of Upper Yosemite
Falls from the shores of the Merced River. The morning light catches
this scene beautifully just after sunrise. We’ll work on different
compositions and take some short walks around the valley. This
evening after our midday photo review session we will head to Artists
Point for one grand finale landscape composition of Yosemite before
an excellent farewell dinner!
Day Six (B)
This morning we will have one more photo session in Yosemite Valley.
After coming in from the session, we’ll warm up over a hot breakfast
and check out of our lodge by 11am. It is about a two-hour drive back
to Fresno we’ll arrive at the airport around 1 pm (we’ll drop you off
right at the airport if you want) and flights home can be booked any
time after 3 pm.
Please Note: The exact sequence of the itineraries on all photography trips will be based on weather and lighting conditions. The goal on these trips is to make sure we are at the right place at the right time for the perfect light on our subjects. Also, itineraries can change for a variety of other circumstances including floods, forest fires, national park closures, road closures and more. Due to the nature of wildlife and nature photography we do not guarantee any specific sightings or specific compositions regarding wildlife or natural phenomena.
Backcountry Journeys –Yosemite in Winter 8
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Trip Details
Physical Requirements All participants must be in good physical condition and have the ability
to hike/ walk with camera equipment and essential hiking gear. For
example, tripod, camera, lense(s), sunscreen, water (up to 2 liters
person), snacks, and extra layers (if necessary). The weight of your pack
largely depends on what gear you choose to bring on each hike.
Typically backpacks weigh between 15 and 20 lbs. For those serious
photography buffs packs could reach 35 lbs! But remember the choice is
yours
Group Size
We keep groups small to maximize your one on one time with the
guide/instructor.
Trip Length
6 days
Backcountry Journeys –Yosemite in Winter 9
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Meeting Time and Place
5pm on Day One at our hotel in Fresno, CA.
Trip Conclusion
Fresno, California no later than 2pm on Day Six. We can drop you off
right at the airport!
Price/Start Dates:
Please see our website for current Yosemite in Winter Pricing and
Dates
Accommodation
We will be staying in Fresno for the first night and then a cozy lodge in
Yosemite Valley for the remainder of the trip
Meals
Most meals are included during the trip dates and we typically eat at
park lodges in the evening. We often eat snacks and prepare lunch on
the trail. We typically return for a late breakfast or eat breakfast on the
road during photography trips as we are often out early to capture the
morning light. There will be one evening with dinner on your own.
Weather
Expect winter weather – cool days and chilly nights. The weather is cold
in the High Sierra during winter however it makes for breathtaking
photos. Remember some of the best photographs are made before,
during and immediately after a storm cycle. There is no such thing as
bad weather just poor layering and gear choices – please plan
accordingly! For more info on what to bring please email or call us.
Make sure you are prepared for rain!
General links to Weather Conditions: Little Yosemite Valley Weather
forecast.
We recommend checking the weather prior to your trip departure to
plan your gear and clothing packing accordingly.
Backcountry Journeys –Yosemite in Winter 10
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Price Includes
Most meals, ground transportation, accommodation during the trip
dates from the evening of Day One through the morning of Day Six,
professional photography instruction, park entrance fees, medically
certified wilderness guide, & gratuities for service personnel such as
drivers, pilots, captains as well as hotel & restaurant staff.
Price Does Not Include
Airfare, alcoholic beverages, accommodations before or after the trip
dates, souvenirs, one meal on your own, & trip leader gratuities
(industry standard is typically 10%-20% of the trip cost based on your
experience.)
Backcountry Journeys –Yosemite in Winter 11
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
Gear List
This gear list should answer a lot of your gear questions so please read
through this carefully. If you still have questions, please give me a call.
While photographing during winter your clothing is a system of layers
that you add and subtract according to the weather and temperature.
Typically, daytimes temperatures are in the 20s and evening
temperatures will often range from -5 to 10 Fahrenheit. Temperatures
during Yellowstone’s frigid winter can fluctuate drastically so be
prepared! Although cold, the weather is often sunny, but you should be
prepared for snowy, windy days as well.
A good pair of good synthetic “Smartwool” type socks under sturdy boots
works well. Clothing should be light-weight nylon pants (maybe base-
layers), a polypro shirt and either a sunhat or warm hat depending on
the weather. As weather conditions change add insulating and
waterproof layers to your base setup. Don’t bring any cotton clothing.
Cotton is not a good insulator and once it gets wet it takes forever to
dry. Absolutely no jeans!
Photo & Field Gear
Recommended Camera Gear
• DSLR or Mirrorless Camera. (Nikon, Canon, Sony, Panasonic etc.) • Telephoto zoom Lens (100–400mm zoom or equivalent) • Wide-angle Lens (10-20mm, 16-35mm or equivalent) • Normal Lenses (ranging from approximately 35mm to 100mm)
• Sturdy but lightweight tripod (must be able to carry this for hikes) • Memory Cards
• Batteries & Chargers
• Filters such as a circular polarizer and neutral density filter
• Lens cleaning pen & cloth
Backcountry Journeys –Yosemite in Winter 12
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
• Camera Day Pack (this should appropriately carry all your camera
& hiking gear and have a rain cover)
• Camera Rain Sleeve
Optional (but recommended)
• Back-Up Camera Body
• 1.4x tele converter
• Laptop Computer with Lightroom / Photoshop Pre-Installed (for
personal use in hotels for downloading images while on tour)
• External Hard Drives
• Remote Shutter Trigger
• Camera’s Instruction Manual
*please contact us at 928-478-1521 with any specific camera gear questions. We are here to help you plan the perfect trip!
Suggested Field Gear & Clothing: • Personal Field Clothing (think extra warm layers & waterproof)
• Warm top, such as a long-sleeved sweater or fleece jacket
• Insulated Down Jacket, warm, packable coat with hood
• “Softshell” Jacket lightly insulated windproof/breathable jacket for
layering and protection from wind
• Lightweight Waterproof Ski-Pants
• Lightweight gloves, light- to mid-weight fleece or wool gloves for
snowshoeing on warm days
• Insulated gloves, waterproof/breathable insulated gloves or mitts
• Balaclava or neck gaiter, midweight wool balaclava or neck gaiter
for windy and cold days
• Warm hat, thick wool Sherpa style winter hat lined with fleece
• Long Underwear (synthetic top & bottom)
• Hiking Socks (Smartwool, Darn Tough etc.)
• Sunglasses
• Insulated boots
• Casual wear, for evenings
• Waterproof/breathable jacket
• Gaiters (optional, but recommended, depending on your ski pants)
Backcountry Journeys –Yosemite in Winter 13
Landscape & Wildlife Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris 928-478-1521 | [email protected] | www.backcountryjourneys.com
• Shooting Gloves
• Binoculars (optional) • Trekking poles (optional, but recommended) • Sunscreen
• Knee pads (for low-angle shooting - optional)
• Headlamp with spare batteries (there are short daylight hours
during the winter and lodging grounds in the park are not well lit)
• Personal toiletries, medication etc
• Money, for tipping your guide (industry standard is generally 10%-20% of the trip cost based on your experience), and for any
personal expenses not included in the tour package such as alcoholic
beverages, a few of the meals, souvenirs, etc.
Note on Packing for the tour:
Please pack your extra clothing, toiletries, extra camera gear, and other
travel items into a suitcase, duffel or travel bag. You will not bring all
your camera gear on every hike or outing. Each evening you will be
briefed on which lenses, filters, etc. you will need to carry the following
day on the scheduled tour or hike.