Since Time Immemorial...
The Nuxalk Nation have called this valley home for generations. The people and the magic of this land has brought us back year after year and in many ways through the mentorship of Nuxalk artists and friends, Field Notes Photography became a reality.
Each year in September you will find the birch trees along the Cariboo Chilcoltin Plateau give way to warmer colours as the road winds west down the Heckman Pass. Here, you will find the trees are a little taller, the mountains a little steeper and as the salmon run up the Atnarko River the grizzly bears and their cubs find their way home.
Known as the Great Bear Rainforest, this valley boasts some of the most pristine rivers, magnificent alpine views and of course exceptionally close encounters with the grizzly bears feasting daily on salmon that will be sure to create core memories that will leave an impression long after you've returned home.
Your personal adventure awaits
Bella Coola is known for its rugged coastline and stunning old growth forest and while the grizzly bears come to feast before winter, this valley and the opportunities for photography extend beyond the rivers. Whether you are a seasoned professional photographer or wanting to learn how to better use your camera and build your portfolio, our day together will be tailored to meet your expectations.
Our owner and lead guide, Lucy Sager will meet you in the morning at your accommodation and set off in our Toyota Tundra for a full day of photography. Pickup locations and start times will depend on your accommodation with a goal to capture both the sunrise and the sunset within the Bella Coola Valley.
During the afternoon together when the light can feel a bit harsh on the water and the bears may be resting with their young, we'll grab lunch and head off to one of our favourite locations, the Cedar Tree Trail. The landscapes and potential wildlife sightings we will work to capture are ideally created using lenses ranging from 14mm - 500mm.
*Please know a complete list of recommended clothing and equipment will be provided upon booking.
While a typical day together is tailored for those who may want to travel solo, groups of up to 3 people can be accommodated at no extra charge. If you are looking to spend a few days in the Bella Coola Valley or up on the Chilcoltin Plateau and want to add some time exploring we would be happy to look at arranging additional days with supporting partners.
It is always our goal to ensure that you go home with images you are proud of and feel confident in adding to your portfolio. You may want to consider our Lightroom editing workshop which can be added on to your photography adventure or provided as a stand alone day if you've been out in the valley capturing your own images.
Dates and availability for the 2025 Season are available from September 21st - October 11th.
For booking inquires... Please see the contact us page.
Private Booking or up to 3 Guests $1250 + tax (All prices are in Canadian dollars.)
Lightroom Editing Workshop
Lightroom is often referred to as the new digital darkroom. Each artist has a unique style and perspective that can be developed through building a practice.
Understanding how to move your images from your camera to a file through an online platform or external drive, staying organized while editing and sharing can make all the difference in building your online presence while processing for social media or printing in large scale format.
Our Lightroom workshop is designed to support you in understanding how to find your own unique style while also building confidence in your workflow and creativity.
Our Lightroom workshop locations in Bella Coola may vary depending on your accommodation and while we love to provide a custom experience to meet your needs, they may be shared with up to 3 guests at no additional charge. Our editing workshops are approximately 6 hours in total and include snacks and non-alcoholic beverages.
Have specific questions about Lightroom or perhaps you're interested in getting a jumpstart on your editing through online support... Please reach out below.
Private Booking or up to 3 Guests 6 Hours $975 + tax (All prices in Canadian dollars.)
How to get here
Bella Coola is accessible by airport as well as the BC Ferries terminal out of Port Hardy on Vancouver Island, Alternately you may travel by road from Williams Lake along Highway 20.
Travel by Air
Air travel to Bella Coola is offered between the South Terminal in Vancouver (YVR) to the Bella Coola Airport (QBC) through Pacific Coastal Airlines.
Travel by sea
Bella Coola is accessible through BC Ferries from Vancouver Island's Port Hardy Terminal. For more information on ferry schedules and pricing, please visit the BC Ferries website.
Travel by Road
Bella Coola is accessible by road through Williams Lake along Highway 20. This drive will take approximately 6 hour along the Cariboo Chilcoltin Plateau. Please note there is limited cell service and fuel stations so please plan accordingly. The Heckmas Pass is gravel and requires that your vehicle is in good working condition with safe and reliable brakes. For more information on driving conditions please refer to Drive BC.
Where to stay
Bella Coola is full of beautiful and unique places to stay that will enhance your experience and leave a lasting impression on your adventure. Whether you are looking for the luxury amenities of beautiful lodges or a a unique glamping experience that will have you sleeping under the stars, Bella Coola has something for everyone.
A unique adventure for photographers and horse lovers alike, Thunder Mountain Adventures has been a favourite stay whether in their cozy cabin or charming wall tents with a view not to be missed!
www.thundermountainadventures.com
An all inclusive getaway that includes adventure, mouth watering meals and fantastic hosts... Firvale Wilderness Camp should be an experience that is added to your bucket list and then checked off.
www.firvalewildernesscamp.com
Bella Coola's Eagle Lodge is known for both its luxury and comfort. With a perfect central location and the connivence of Bella Cafe, this lodge is sure to make your stay one that is both relaxing and memorable!
“Both the grand and the intimate aspects of nature can be revealed in the expressive photograph. Both can stir enduring affirmations and discoveries, and can surely help the spectator in his search for identification with the vast world of natural beauty and wonder surrounding him."”
