Photography Workshop

Bugaboo lodge

A Classic CMH Icon

Welcome to your historical headquarters in the famed Bugaboos. Perched at 1,490m (4,888 ft), our 32-room log-hewn lodge at the base of Bugaboo Glacier is enshrined as the birthplace of the heli-skiing industry. With mind-blowing scenery that’s captivated mountaineers for over a century, history abounds here – and so do modern comforts.

Inspired cuisine, deluxe accommodations, full-service amenities and one of the best hot tub views on the planet make Bugaboo Lodge the perfect alpine escape. Soar into an incredible summer adventure at CMH Bugaboo Lodge.

Amenities

• Rooftop hot tub
• Stunning mountain views
• CMH Museum
• Gear & gift shop
• Games room
• Music room
• Steam room and dry sauna
• Massage
• Indoor climbing wall
• Swimming pond
• Chef-prepared meals & snacks
• Pastry chef
• Full-service bar with extensive wine cellar
• Wi-Fi
• Complimentary laundry facilities

Each room includes

• Hand & body wash
• Bathrobe
• Shampoo / conditioner
• Hair dryer

What's the weather like?

Due to the high mountain environment, expect to experience various conditions. The weather can be sunny and warm, but be prepared for cooler temperatures, rain, wind and possibly snow. 

Mountain weather can change with very little warning. Temperatures range from highs of 10˚C to 35˚C (50˚F-95˚F) and lows of 9˚C to -3˚C (48˚F to 26˚F). 

Are all of your guides certified?

Yes. Most CMH guides have made a lifelong career out of their passion. They are dedicated professionals trained in the European guiding tradition, which emphasizes both respect for the mountains and a deep concern for the well-being of every guest. Our guides are fully trained and re-trained regularly in first aid, wilderness rescue, emergency procedure and prevention. Many of our guides are fully certified by the International Federation of Mountain Guides Association (IFMGA) – a ten-year process on average. The rest of our guides are certified by the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG), also to rigorous standards. Every guide is an experienced, knowledgeable interpreter of our mountains’ flora, fauna, geology and natural history, ensuring that your heli-hiking experience is both safe and enriching. 

What makes the photography workshop so special?

You will be part of a small group of 10 photographers who will stay at the remote Bugaboos lodge, and fly to stunning locations each day to photograph some of the most incredible scenery in the world. You’ll have the services of professional photographer Kahli April on-hand as she provides you with instruction and tips throughout the trip. 

What does a typical day look like?

On arrival at the lodge, if time allows, we’ll provide any hiking gear (rain/wind jacket, rain/wind pants, hiking boots, backpack & poles) you require and head out for a few hours in the afternoon. Over the next two days, you’ll fly to a few locations each day where Kahli will guide you through your photography and help everyone individually. Once you return to the lodge, you’ll have further instruction and discussion. You can expect to be in the mountains between 9am - 4pm each day. 

How much photography experience do I need?

This workshop is open to all levels of experience. Kahli will cater for beginners through to advanced. 

What will I learn on this workshop?

During this workshop you will learn how to take more impressive images, beyond the typical tourist snapshot and take home images you’ll be proud of. Kahli will cover topics such as composition, mastering your settings, long exposure, focus stacking, processing images use of filters & much more! There will be additional exciting night sky component, weather dependent. 

If bringing my laptop, is there a specific editing software that I should download?

Any editing software is fine, whichever you are most familiar with. The techniques Kahli teaches can be implemented across all software. 

Will we encounter wildlife?

In all of our trips, we strive to avoid any contact with wildlife. However, our guides are trained in safely dealing with wildlife encounters, should one occur. 

How many helicopter trips will I have to take?

In addition to your heli trips to and from the lodge, each day offers the chance to heli to new adventures – with unprecedented access. On average, you can expect two or three helicopter trips per day, depending on your preference and weather conditions. 

What happens when nature calls and we’re on the trail?

We hike and explore remote areas where there are no conventional washrooms. Mother Nature provides trees and rocks for privacy. We recommend bringing toilet paper and a ziplock bag. Paper used in the field can be disposed of back at the lodge. 

Are gratuities included?

The CMH team is committed to ensuring that you enjoy the trip of a lifetime. While gratuities are not included in your trip fees – nor are they mandatory – they may be offered on a voluntary basis. Gratuities are divided among all of the lodge staff and your pilot. 

How do I arrange a private group booking?

Private bookings are a great way to share the magic of a summer heli-hiking adventure with a group. Call our planning experts to arrange the details of all-to-yourself bookings for privately guided trips. 

How fit do I need to be?

Once you’re dropped off at your first location, you may need to walk up to 1km (sometimes further, depending on group preference) carrying your equipment. . 

Is instruction included in my workshop?

Yes – you’ll receive instruction from photographer Kahli April. 

What happens if it rains?

Rain? No problem! We can do lots indoors such as, image critiques and editing workshops. 

What photography equipment will I need for this workshop?

• DSLR or mirrorless camera which allows settings to be manually adjusted and ideally be familiar with how to do so.
• Lightweight tripod
• Headlamp
• Battery Charger and spare batteries
• Memory Cards

Optional: 

• Laptop for editing
• Filters
• Camera manual