Comments on: Trip Report #1

By: Matthew

Matthew — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 02:17:57 +0000

Dave,
Loved your shots of our recent trip. Each one I saw brought back such strong memories. For those reading, I’m the solo client Dave just went out with. I had never met Dave but was intrigued by his ad in Outdoor Photographer. I spoke with him on the phone and shared both my experience and my goals for this once in a lifetime trip to Alaska. He seemed like the perfect blend of logistics planner, pro photographer, Alaska guide, and patient teacher. Throughout the planning phase of the trip Dave carefully listened and expertly tailored the trip to meet both my needs and my abilities. I really appreciated his transparent approach to the costs and options while planning as well as his open and honest input as to where to put the money I had. His advice on what to bring (and what not to bring) was extremely helpful and saved me from spending hundreds of dollars on gear I didn’t need.
My arrival in Anchorage on a rainy Tuesday was was short lived as Dave met me at the airport and off we went to Homer. The drive was a great chance to get to know each other and Dave’s knowledge of the wildlife and terrain was encyclopedic. We arrived in Homer late that night, but already having shot photos of moose and a beautiful evening landscape outside Homer. Day 2 was a bit of a washout as our trip to Katmai was cancelled due to weather. Dave was already thinking of ” plan B ” and off we went to shoot fireweed. The next day dawned overcast but we managed to get to Katmai via Alpine Air service. The team at Alpine was knowledgeable and professional and the rest of the day was filled with shooting wonderful pictures of the bears. Dave really worked hard to help me see other ways to use my equipment and I quickly began to see an improvement in the photographs I was taking. The rest of the trip was just as rewarding. Dave was an outstanding teacher and guide and I would recommend him to anyone photographing in Alaska. Please feel free to contact me though Dave if you would like a personal reference. As for me, I’m already planning to return next spring for another great Alaskan photo experience with Dave. Thanks again for making this a once in a lifetime trip.

By: admin

admin — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 06:16:47 +0000

Thanks Kelli, Ron, and M & D (that’s Mom & Dad, in case you were wondering:)).
@Kelli – most of my bear shots were done with either a 24-105L IS or my “go-to” lens, the 100-400 IS. I am really impressed with the 24-105, it is very sharp and the IS is quite good. The 100-400 is not as sharp as a 400/5.6 prime, but I really like the versatility & I’m content with the sharpness it offers. BUT, I am hoping Canon brings out a 100-400L IS Mk II, and soon! It sorely needs an update.
@Ron – Alpine Air was fantastic, and easily my personal high-light for the past year. Great service. Spendy? Yes, but soooo worth it. Can’t wait to work with them again!
@Mom & Dad – It was a great trip, dad would have really enjoyed the flight, heck you would have too! I’ll post more soon…

By: M & D

M & D — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 22:46:54 +0000

Dave – love the “Yo – Dave” bear shot in particular – and Blackstone Bay…anxious to see more…

By: Ron Niebrugge

Ron Niebrugge — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 16:15:09 +0000

Looks like you had a very fun, productive trip! I have used Alpine Air on many occasions – total rush!

By: kelli

kelli — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 14:40:29 +0000

Wow Dave! I love the bears!! What lens were you shooting the bears with? Love the landscape of the mudflats too. I cant wait to come back to Alaska!!