WATERTON ELK RUT – WORKSHOP AND WELLNESS
SEPT. 26TH - 29TH, 2025
4 Spaces Available!
SEPT. 26TH – 29TH, 2025
Waterton, Canada
Join Women in Wildlife photography leader Dee Webb for an empowering and immersive photography workshop in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Based in a serene private lodge just 20 minutes outside Waterton Lakes National Park, which adjoins Glacier National Park to the north, this retreat offers a perfect blend of professional instruction, creative exploration, and personal wellness.
This workshop is designed to foster a supportive environment where women can connect, learn, and grow together. Whether you’re an experienced photographer or a passionate beginner, you’ll receive hands-on instruction and guidance from Dee as you capture the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of Waterton Lakes.
Photography Focus with a Mindful Approach:
The Waterton elk rut provides an extraordinary opportunity to use nature as a live classroom, offering an immersive experience in mindful photography. With a herd of over 1,000 elk, this is a chance to be fully present in the moment, capturing the power and beauty of these animals. You’ll have the opportunity to park, observe, and photograph the elk as they gather close by, exploring different angles, lighting, and techniques. Dee’s approach to photography goes beyond the technical aspects, encouraging you to slow down, connect with your surroundings, and capture not just an image but an experience.
By practicing mindful photography, you’ll acquire tools you can take out into the world—methods for being present and finding calm amid life’s stresses. This workshop is ideal for beginners looking to improve their skills and seasoned photographers seeking a deeper connection with their craft.
As fall transforms the park, you’ll also photograph black bears preparing for winter, framed by the rich, warm hues of autumn foliage, enhancing the beauty of your shots.
Throughout the workshop, Dee will offer personalized instruction, both in the field and during review sessions. She will guide you in mastering wildlife photography techniques—composition, lighting, and camera settings—while encouraging you to cultivate mindfulness in your creative process. During elk shoots, you’ll apply new skills in real-time, enhancing your growth as a photographer while deepening your connection to the moment.
Restorative Yoga and Wellness:
In addition to photography, this retreat uniquely integrates wellness with restorative yoga. Dee is passionate about supporting women on their wellness journey, helping them discover a powerful connection between mental health, photography, and yoga. Each evening, you’re invited to join restorative yoga sessions designed to release tension, calm the mind, and promote balance after a day of creative work. These sessions are accessible to everyone, including those with limited mobility, providing a gentle, nurturing space to unwind and recharge.
This workshop isn’t just a learning opportunity—it’s a retreat where women come together in a supportive, safe space to learn, grow, and rejuvenate. Dee’s goal is for each participant to leave with tools they can use to manage stress and foster a sense of well-being, carrying the benefits of mindful photography and wellness into their everyday lives. You’ll leave feeling rested, inspired, and empowered, with not only stunning photographs but a renewed sense of self.
Join us for this unique blend of photography, mindfulness, and connection, and discover the transformative power of capturing nature’s beauty while nurturing your own well-being.
About your leader….
6 Participants
$1,800 (based on double occupancy)
There are no single supplements available for this tour. Each room in the lodge has two beds and an ensuite bath.
SEPT. 26TH – 29TH, 2025
Day 1: September 26th
- Afternoon: Arrival at the Lodge
Settle into your beautiful private lodge, just 20 minutes from the park, with breathtaking mountain views.
Meet and greet with Dee Webb and fellow participants. We will go over what to expect, best practice and camera setting suggestions. - 4:00 PM: Evening Elk Shoot with On-Site Instruction
Depart for an evening photography session focused on the Waterton elk rut.
During the shoot, Dee will provide real-time instruction on composition, camera settings, and techniques to capture the dynamic interactions of the elk against the stunning backdrop of the Canadian Rockies. - 7:00 PM: Return to the Lodge & Photo Review
Gather in the lodge for an initial review of the evening’s photos. Dee will provide feedback and tips for improving your shots over the next days. - 8:00 PM: Relaxation
Enjoy a relaxing evening at the lodge. Optional restorative yoga session to help you unwind after the day’s activities.
Day 2: September 27th
- Before Sunrise: Sunrise Shoot
Wake up early and head out for a sunrise shoot to capture the soft morning light, back lite from sunrise the elk are a beautiful silhouetted. - 9am Bear Drive. Embark on a bear drive to photograph black bears as they prepare for winter amidst the vibrant fall foliage. 10:30 AM: Breakfast and Photo Review
- 11:30 AM: Instruction Session
A focused session on wildlife photography techniques, camera settings, and tips for capturing dynamic animal behavior.. - 1:00 PM: Lunch and Rest at the Lodge
Return to the lodge for a well-deserved lunch and rest period.
After Lunch Instruction SessionA focused session on wildlife photography techniques, camera settings, and tips for capturing dynamic animal behaviour. - 4pm Evening Shoot Head out again for another evening session, focusing on the elk rut and the beautiful landscape as the sun sets.
Dee will provide hands-on guidance during the shoot to help you refine your techniques and capture stunning images. - 7:00 PM: Photo Review & Discussion
Share and discuss the evening’s photos with the group. Dee will provide feedback and suggestions for improvement. - 8:00 PM: Evening Rest & Restorative Yoga
Join Dee for an evening of restorative yoga designed to help you relax and unwind after a day of photography.
Day 3: September 28th
- Before Sunrise: Sunrise Shoot
Another chance to capture the magical morning light and the park’s wildlife. - 8:30 AM: Continue your exploration of the park with a focus on photographing black bears. We will also take a little time to explore the small town of Waterton.
- 10:30 AM: Breakfast and Group Photo ReviewReturn to the lodge for breakfast followed by a review of the morning’s work.
12:30 PM: Lunch and Rest at the LodgeReturn to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. - 1:30 PM: Instruction Session
Learn about post-processing techniques to enhance your wildlife photographs. - 4:00 PM: Evening Elk Shoot with On-Site Instruction
Venture out for one last evening session to photograph the elk and the stunning landscapes.
Dee will offer personalized tips and demonstrate advanced techniques during the shoot to help you capture the best possible images. - 7:00 PM: Final Photo Review
Review the evening’s photos and reflect on your progress over the workshop. - 8:00 PM: Restorative Yoga Session
Wind down with another restorative yoga class led by Dee, helping you to process the day’s experiences and find inner peace.
Day 4: September 29th
- Morning: Final Shoot
Capture the park’s early morning beauty one last time, with a focus on any remaining wildlife and the stunning fall scenery. - 10:30 AM: Breakfast & Final Review
Return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast and a final photo review session. Dee will offer final tips and suggestions for your photography journey ahead.
Say goodbye to Dee and your fellow participants as you depart the lodge, taking with you beautiful memories and a portfolio of stunning photographs.
SEPT. 26TH – 29TH, 2025
- Accommodations day 1-4
- Meals from arrival on day 1 to departure on day 4
- All ground transportation day 1-4
- Transportation to and from Calgary International Airport (YYC) (must arrive before 10:00am on day 1)
- Professional photography instruction
- Professional wildlife guiding
- Professional yoga and mindfulness guidance
- Camaraderie with other women photographers
- Transportation to and from Waterton
- Trip insurance