Light & Land 101: A Photography Workshop in Glacier National Park

August 24-25, 2026:

Instructors: Ben Lew, Nick Kalisz, Anthony Nelson

Join the Glacier Institute for a hands-on learning experience that blends photography with outdoor education. This two-day workshop invites participants to explore Glacier’s diverse landscapes while developing their storytelling skills behind the lens. With guidance from instructors Ben Lew, Anthony Nelson, and Nick Kalisz, you’ll learn how to work with natural light, frame compelling scenes, and capture the movement and beauty of wild places. Each day includes time on trail, in-the-field demonstrations, and group learning moments designed to build both confidence and creativity in outdoor photography.

This workshop is more than just taking photos—it’s about learning in nature, from nature. Through immersive sessions on mountain passes, ridge-lines, and forested trails, participants will gain a deeper understanding of Glacier’s ecosystems and how to visually share their experience. From practical lessons on camera settings and composition to thoughtful discussions about place-based storytelling, the workshop encourages curiosity and connection. Whether you’re new to photography or looking to grow your skills, this is a unique opportunity to learn in one of the most iconic landscapes in North America.

Meeting Place: Glacier Institute Field Camp. 

Itinerary: (subject to change due to weather, trail closures, and blooming season)

• Day 1: We will meet at Field Camp at 9 a.m. for an introduction and orientation to the workshop. Then we will travel by Glacier Institute to the Piegan Pass Trailhead. We will spend the morning learning about light, subject, and place and work on some portraiture and tree canopy lighting. We will have a trail lunch, then dive into landscape framing and motion! After the afternoon session, we will head to Logan Pass for dinner, then a golden hour session at the pass! We will head back to Field Camp for lights out and an optional Astrophotography course (bring your tripod!) to take advantage of Glacier’s Dark Skies! 
• Day 2: We will head out after breakfast for a drive over to Firebrand Pass. While on trail, we will cover Adventure Portraits and wildlife photography, learning effective focus techniques, light utilization, and ethical positional and behavior. After a trail lunch, we will discuss different gear and styles available for adventure photography, and continue discussion on how to use light that is available in your shots. We will then head back to Field Camp and depart! 

Food: The following meals are included: dinner on Day 1 through lunch on Day 2.

Accommodations: One night of lodging is included into the course fee. Our student cabins are basic, hostel-style cabins with 5 single beds, bedside lights, and electrical outlets. Students should be prepared to share a cabin with up to 4 other people, cabins are separated by gender. Couples may be paired up in the event there is ample space. We provide a bottom sheet for your bed as well as a pillow and pillow case, but please bring a warm sleeping bag. Be sure to bring a flashlight or headlamp for night trips to the bathroom.

Park Entrance Fees: Participants are responsible for purchasing their park entry passes prior to the course. These can be purchased online at:  https://www.recreation.gov/sitepass/74280.  

Equipment: You will receive a Field Camp gear list once you register. Most importantly are comfortable hiking shoes, at least 1-2 liter water bottle, backpack, rain gear, hat, and sunscreen. Binoculars and hand lenses are also highly recommended. Please bring any personal photo gear you would like to use or have involved in the workshop and a tripod if you wish to participate in the Astrophotography portion.

Physical Requirements: Moderate: We will be hiking up to nine miles round trip and up to 1,500 feet of elevation change. Frequent breaks will be taken along the trail.