Steller's Sea Eagles Winter Photography

Hokkaido, Japan

Join me for the ultimate winter wildlife photography workshop in Hokkaido, Japan, a snow covered paradise that draws photographers from around the globe. The headline star of this expedition is the mighty Steller’s sea eagle, one of the world’s largest and most powerful raptors. Migrating south from Russia, these spectacular birds gather in northeastern Hokkaido from late January through late February. We will take dedicated dawn boat cruises out of Rausu to photograph them in action as they battle over fish directly on the floating pack ice.
Beyond the eagles, this workshop is designed to capture Hokkaido’s most iconic and rare winter species. You will photograph the elegant, dancing Red crowned cranes in the snow, wait in a specialized nocturnal hide for the rare Blakiston’s fish owl, and capture ethereal images of Whooper swans on the steaming shores of Lake Kussharo. Along the way, we will also seek out native Hokkaido red foxes and majestic Ezo sika deer foraging in the pristine winter landscapes. With expert guidance on field craft, camera settings, and composition, this workshop will help you build a breathtaking portfolio of Asia’s most spectacular winter wildlife.
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Red-crowned cranes gracefully dance in the snowy fields of Hokkaido, Japan, showcasing winter elegance.
blakiston fish owl, owl, bird, animal, feathers, plumage, birds of prey, predator, wildlife, nature, raptor

Itinerary / Arrival / Departure

Will be available soon…

Tour Info:

Dates: Late February 2028

Group Size: 5 Participants

Cost: $5,900 USD

Important Update:

Please note that the details listed above represent a preliminary estimate. I will announce the exact tour dates very soon. While the final cost may vary slightly based on these dates, I expect to finalize pricing by March 2027.
 
To secure early access before registration opens to the general public, I invite you to join my priority waitlist.
Please be aware that this tour will sell out quickly, as attendance is strictly limited to 5 participants. Spots will be offered in the order that requests are received, so joining the waitlist early will significantly increase your chances of securing a place.
 
JOIN WAITLIST
  • Flights to Haneda, Tokyo

  • Meals that are not included in the itinerary

  • Travel & Medical Insurance

  • Personal Expenses (Souvenirs, alcoholic beverages, etc.)

  • Any expenses incurred beyond our control due to natural disaster, weather conditions, etc.

  • Domestic flights on Day 2 and Day 6 -Day 2 from Haneda (Tokyo) to Kushiro (Hokkaido) - Day 6 from Nakashibetsu to Haneda (Tokyo)

  • Accommodation (6 nights) - Twin sharing basis

  • All guiding + instruction

  • 3 shared boat cruises for Eagles 

  • 5 Breakfasts + 0 Lunch + 4 Dinners

  • All entry fees to sites

  • A Private van with driver and English speaking guide from Day 2 at Kushiro airport till Day 6 at arrival at Kushiro airport.

  • 1 photography session at Blakiston’s fish owl hide

  • 1 early morning photography session at Otowa bridge in Tsurui village

  • 1 or 2 camera bodies (full frame recommended)
  • Lenses ranging from wide angle 16-35mm to 70-200mm for landscape photos, Telephoto lens – 100-500 Or 200-600 Or a prime lens 600mm f4! Note you can rent a 600mm f4 from any online camera rental store. 
  • Sturdy tripod
  • Laptop for editing + critique (optional)
  • 4-6 batteries.
  • External hard drive to backup your images each day (recommended)
  • Learn to read eagle behavior and anticipate key action moments like dives, takeoff, and interactions
  • Practice tracking and autofocus techniques for birds in flight
  • Improve exposure control for high contrast scenes 
  • Improve panning techniques for sharp flight shots
  • Learn how to quickly adjust camera settings when action happens suddenly
  • Layered clothing system to adapt to changing conditions 
  • Thermal bas layer to retain warmth during long static shooting sessions
  • Wool or thermal socks
  • Warm gloves, Beanie, hand warmers
  • Avoid cotton clothing, it holds moisture and makes you colder quickly
  • Facemask to protect you from wind and cold
  • Insulated winter boots with good grip for icy conditions
  • Parka Jacket 

Why join my workshop?

Learn Professional Wildlife Photography Techniques

Small Group Experience

Hands-On Instruction in the Field

Experience Hokkaido in Winter

IMPORTANT LEGAL INFORMATION

By attending this workshop, you agree to hold Marc Bouldoukian of Marc bouldoukian photography harmless for all personal injury or loss that may occur during or in connection with this trip.

Do not push your physical abilities past what you are healthy enough to do. You are in charge of deciding if a location is safe for you to travel to.

Travel insurance as well as insurance for your photo gear are both highly recommended. Marc Bouldoukian of Marc Bouldoukian Photography’s role in this workshop is to teach photography in Japan and guide you to great locations.

You are responsible for your safety as you travel. Marc Bouldoukian of Marc Bouldoukian Photography makes no effort to vet the other attendees of the trip and you need to make sure you are safe in their companionship. In the event of extraordinary events, governmental instability, extreme weather, pandemic, or other condition, Marc Bouldoukian reserves the right to reschedule or cancel this trip and either return all workshop fees or apply paid fees toward a future workshop.

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