PA ELK ADVENTURE 2026
WORKSHOP SNAPSHOT:
Experience the thrill of the elk rut in this professionally guided wildlife photography workshop, set in one of the most scenic and historically rich regions of the eastern U.S. With three morning and four afternoon sessions, you’ll capture powerful images of wild elk during peak rut—complete with bugling, sparring, and dramatic herd behavior.
Led by seasoned wildlife photographer Joe Subolefsky, who brings over 15 years of experience with this specific herd, the workshop offers exclusive insight into animal behavior and expert photographic instruction. You’ll also have chances to photograph foxes, coyotes, owls, and more in the stunning mountain landscape.
This small-group experience blends action-packed wildlife encounters with hands-on learning in composition, fieldcraft, and ethical shooting practices—perfect for photographers looking to grow their skills and portfolio in a supportive, inspiring environment.
Dates:
Session 1: Monday, September 28-Thursday, October 1, 2026. Meet Joe on Monday, September 28 in the afternoon in the hotel lobby. The adventure will conclude on Thursday, October 1st, following the evening session.
Session 2: Monday, October 5-Thursday, October 8, 2026. Meet Joe on Monday, October 5th in the afternoon in the hotel lobby. The adventure will conclude on Thursday, October 8th following the evening session.
Cost: $1,900
Booking and Refund Policy:A $750 non-refundable deposit is required. The balance is due 60 days before the date of the workshop and is then non-refundable. Deposits can be made via checks payable to Joe Subolefsky or PayPal/Credit Card (+3%).
Participants: Limited to three clients
Start and Finish: Clearfield, Pennsylvania
Trip Leader: Joe Subolefsky
Fitness Level: Easy
Temperature: High 60°F/ Low 40°F
Experience Level: Beginner to Professional
Equipment: For photographing the elk, you will want your biggest glass a 400/500/600, and a tripod. You will also want to pack a wide-angle lens and a 100-400/500 to utilize for wide shots and landscapes including elk.I’m shooting my 100-500 zoom more and more for elk. The Sony 200-600 would be awesome as well. Do not forget rain covers for your camera gear. I hope that we will not need it!
ABOUT THIS WORKSHOP:
Join Joe for a professionally guided wildlife photography workshop focused on the dynamic elk rut in a unique and historically significant region of the eastern United States. This workshop includes three morning sessions and four afternoon sessions dedicated to photographing wild elk, with additional opportunities to capture foxes, coyotes, owls, wild turkeys, and other native wildlife commonly found in the area’s mountainous terrain.
With over 15 years of experience photographing this specific elk herd, Joe has designed this adventure to maximize both your photographic opportunities and your understanding of animal behavior. The local elk population—reintroduced to the region in 1913 with 50 animals from Yellowstone—has now grown to over 1,500 individuals. Due to limited hunting and milder winters, the area consistently produces some of the largest and most photogenic bulls in the country.
Timed during the peak of the rut, this workshop will focus on capturing dramatic and educational wildlife behavior, including bugling, sparring, chasing, mating, and the defense of harems. These action-packed moments offer excellent opportunities to practice timing, focus, and field positioning—key skills that you’ll learn to apply across various wildlife photography scenarios.
In addition to hands-on field experience, Joe will provide guidance on composition, light management, and ethical wildlife photography practices, helping you elevate your technical skills and creative approach. With a small group size, participants receive individualized attention, ensuring a supportive and educational environment throughout the experience.
This workshop combines field instruction, expert insights, and a deep appreciation for wildlife and conservation—ideal for photographers looking to expand both their portfolio and their field craft.
Included: Photographic instruction; three morning and four afternoon shoots
Not Included: Travel to Clearfield, Pennsylvania, hotel, meals, personal items.
Booking and Trip Policy: Click Here to view our policies before booking a trip.
Questions: Joe@WildShutterAdventures.com or call Joe at 443.640.5649
