Abercrombie & Kent: Why you should visit the Northwest Passage in 7 photos

That means getting off the beaten path and/or finally planning one of those once-in-a-lifetime trips. One destination that fits the bill is the Northwest Passage, the historic sea route between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and the Arctic Ocean, touching North America through the Canadian Arctic Islands and Norway and Siberia along the Arctic coasts of Europe.

Geoffrey Kent, founder and CEO of Abercrombie & Kent recently shared a lot with award-winning board photographer Michelle Valberg. Chance About catching sightings on an A&K trip between Greenland and the Bering Sea last November. Valberg provides a unique view of the footage that has yet to be published elsewhere.

ChanceWhat brought you on this trip to the Northwest Passage? What was your experience like?

Valberg: I’ve been through the Northwest Passage six times, and each experience is different and unique in its own way. From snow to wildlife encounters, this ultimate adventure was full of surprises including mini snow. So many beautiful and beautiful landscapes. The Inuit in the community are welcoming and wonderful. More often than not, you’ll leave in awe of the beauty and wonder of this magical place. As a Canadian, I have always been proud to represent this part of our country.

Kent: “Northwest Passage: Greenland to Bering Sea” is an adventure inspired by the great polar explorers of the past, as well as the region’s rich history, and has been at the top of my wish list since I was a child. son . At Beechey Island, I was honored to visit the graves of the men of the 1845 Franklin Expedition, whose legacy helped inspire this expedition. I was amazed by the many things we saw, from the stunning landscapes to the remote villages and incredible wildlife sightings. It’s been fun to get back to my roots and explore remote and unknown regions with our award-winning exhibition team. Our Inuit cultural expert, Leslie Kamanik, shares intimate details of the traditional way of life she grew up with, while our Arctic history teacher, Russell Potter, makes Franklin’s fateful journey clear to all of us. It was an unforgettable journey to the top of the world, where even today few have come in comparison.

Compared to most destinations, this is a more adventurous place. What were some unexpected obstacles or issues you encountered on this trip or previous photography tours?

Valberg: Managing expectations. Flexibility is key in these types of cruises, especially in the Arctic. I’ve been in the Canadian Arctic 60 times now. It’s hard not to have expectations, but it’s important to go with the flow and allow yourself to have the best trip possible. Due to weather and snow conditions, plans in the Arctic can change and change often. The only thing that is predictable about wildlife is the unexpected. I am always grateful for any opportunity that presents itself. After a trip like this, I have over 10,000 pictures of everything being picture-worthy in my mind. And this can be a hurdle – to choose which images are best to tell the story.

Kent: While visiting Melville Bay’s “Ice Grave”, we saw still-stunning melting doves ready for dramatic photo opportunities. But the elements that make the Arctic such a dream destination—the pristine snow and ice that contrast so starkly with the sea and sky, the abundance of wildlife and the constant movement of seabirds—make it a challenge for photographers. My colleagues and I marveled at the Franklin Bay Smoky Hills, a rare geological phenomenon that causes smoke to rise from the rocky landscape. Discovered by Sir John Franklin in 1826, the hills were named after the sulphurous fumes emitted by the spontaneous ignition of iron pyrites particles. We boarded the Zodiac to travel this single beach in two directions. Oncoming black tariff mounds are broken by fiery red-yellow- and orange-colored outcrops of rock, and the shores are strewn with burnt conglomerates that look like giant coals.

What settings or subjects inspire you the most? What do you look for in a photo shoot?

Valberg: I ​​am and have always been inspired by wildlife, landscapes and people, in and from all corners of the world. Telling the story is my ultimate goal and passion, whether it’s through a single photograph, a series or a recording. Also, I love creating a way to show the world in a way I’ve never seen it before or to tell the story in a different way. I’m always looking for ways to make a difference in my images. This is what inspired me and got me completely hooked on photography.

What are some basic tips or advice for travelers looking to take better wildlife and landscape photos?

Valberg: For wildlife and landscape photography, it’s important to have the right equipment and gear. I recommend doing research on the type of cruise you are going on. For an adventurous trip like the Northwest Passage, you need to be prepared for all kinds of weather. Same goes if you’re going south. Different weather conditions can cause serious problems with your device (from cold to hot). Camera covers, lens hoods, extra batteries, memory cards, dry bags, etc. are essential items to have in your camera bag.

Also, familiarize yourself with your camera before getting on the plane. If you want your image to be what you want it to be, practice, practice, practice before you go. I’ve often heard people bring (or download) their manuals thinking they’ll read them on the plane or while traveling. That will never happen or cause more frustration. Know your camera before you go, at least the basics. Browse your menu and settings.

where did you go? Where do you think amateur photographers should go in 2023?

Valberg: I’m traveling to Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands with Abercrombie and Kent for January. I recommend all of Canada to photographers and non-photographers alike. From coast to coast, you will find beauty everywhere. From plains and mountains to lakes and oceans, it never disappoints. It’s a big country, so you’ll need more time or more trips to see it all. Otherwise, follow your dreams. Because we don’t know the future, we know better now. Use it when you can and also use a reputable and reliable company to help you get there.

Kent: In May, I’m looking forward to returning to England for a once-in-a-lifetime trip during Coronation Week. I created the Royal and Ducal Castes (May 1-9, 2023) to give a few of our guests a glimpse into a world that most people know. The crown Or Downton AbbeyLife in Great Britain is full of good motor sports, polo (my sport of choice) and of course five star hospitality and delicious food. With my host His Grace, The Duke of Roxburghe, we experience some of Britain’s most historic private residences and beautiful gardens during the festive period of Coronation Week, when the whole country is at its best.

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