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Joe’s Top Picks Photo Tours
It’s highly likely that Joe Van Os—the namesake of our company—has led more photo tours to more destinations than just about anyone—past or present! And when you’ve traveled as much as Joe has, you’re bound to develop some favorite spots for photography. Below you’ll find Joe’s current favorites. As he scouts and develops new trips, this list is likely to change, so you may want to bookmark this page and visit it from time to time.
We’re here to answer your questions about any of the trips that interest you, so don’t hesitate to contact us!
Whales, Wildlife and Wilderness—Alaska
Experience the breathtaking excitement of humpback whale photography in the pristine waters of Alaska’s Inside Passage during the prime summer season. Whales breach, tail-slap, and bubble-net and lunge feed amidst snowcapped mountain backdrops on this luxurious photo cruise.
Japan's Winter Wildlife
Incredible photographic access to snow monkeys, Japanese cranes, whooper swans, white-tailed and Steller's sea eagles in snowy landscapes. One of Earth's finest—yet little-known—winter wildlife shoots. Ranks in Joe Van Os' Top 10 wildlife photo trips in the world!
Yellowstone in Winter
Capture images of the very best of Yellowstone’s snowy interior—unique geothermal features, snow-encrusted landscapes, and iconic wildlife—with an expert leader who knows the park intimately. Flexible itinerary with five snow coach days and short walks to explore geothermal areas and landscapes.
Bald Eagles, Sea Otters & Coastal Wildlife of Kachemak Bay, Alaska
A spectacular wildlife shoot amidst Alaska’s most photogenic settings. Five full days of photography from a chartered boat along the Kenai Peninsula to capture dynamic in-flight and perched eagle images, endearing close-ups of sea otters, and wildlife in rugged winter landscapes.
Great Gray Owls of the North Woods, Alberta
Photograph these magnificent birds of prey, the “Phantoms of the Forest,” in the remote forests of central Alberta. Three full shooting days provide many opportunities to capture intimate photos of the great gray owls during the snowiest month of the year.
Faroe Islands
Discover the seldom-visited, unspoiled, and timeless Faroe Islands. Treeless, turf-mantled terrain rises to rocky crags or drops to the sea below. Waterfalls plunge steeply and waves crash on pristine shores. Colorful turf-roofed houses, charming villages, and working fishing boats add a human element.
Namibia Revealed
From its beautiful quiver tree forest, surreal sand-conquered ghost town of Kolmanskop, and the colossal red sand Sossusvlei Dunes to the superlative Etosha National Park, Namibia provides exciting photo subjects at every turn. Photograph vast numbers of wildlife at Etosha's numerous water holes.
Whales, Wildlife and Wilderness, Alaska
Experience the breathtaking excitement of humpback whale photography in the pristine waters of the Alaska’s Inside Passage during the prime summer season. Whales breach, tail-slap, and bubble-net and lunge feed amidst snowcapped mountain backdrops on this luxurious photo cruise.
Jaguars & Wildlife of Brazil's Pantanal
The world's premier wetland with photo access to stunning birds and mammals, with a focus on jaguars. Five full days are dedicated to jaguar photography from small boats—3 photographers per boat. Travel with a local photo guide who intimately knows the wildlife and natural history of the Pantanal.
Botswana Wildlife
Two incredibly productive wildlife areas—private Mashatu Game Reserve and Chobe National Park. Photograph elephants and other animals up close and below eye level from waterhole photo blinds. Shoot from boats specially designed for photographers for a unique below eye-level perspective.
New Zealand's South Island
New Zealand—a canvas painted by nature’s brushstrokes. This 13-day photo adventure immerses you in sparkling glaciers, ancient forests, mirrored lakes, and rugged fiords. From the snow-capped Southern Alps to the dramatic coast, every frame captures the untouched beauty of Middle Earth.
Timeless Landscapes of Slovenia and Croatia
Imagine stepping into a storybook where every scene is a work of art. That is what awaits you in Slovenia and Croatia—two tiny, enchanting photogenic countries that embody “Europe in miniature.” Photograph the best of their national park landscapes, countryside, and medieval architecture on this trip.
