In this episode of Jason Lanier Unfiltered, I sit down with my good friend Scott Porter to recap our unforgettable trip to Haines, Alaska. We went there to photograph grizzly bears hunting for salmon along the Chilkoot River, and the experience delivered more than we ever imagined.
From discussing the gear that got us the shots, to safety tips for navigating bear country, to the dynamics of working alongside the public and other photographers in high-stakes situations, this conversation is packed with real-world lessons for photographers and adventurers alike. The trip culminated in a heart-pounding moment when I came face to face with a Mama Grizzly searching for her cubs after a long day of fishing. It was raw, real, and unforgettable. If you’ve ever dreamed of photographing wildlife or want to know what it’s really like to be just a few feet away from one of nature’s most powerful animals, you won’t want to miss this one. 🎧 Show Notes:

• Why Haines, Alaska is a premier spot for grizzly bear photography
• The gear we relied on (and what we wished we had brought)
• Staying safe and respectful in bear country
• How to navigate the challenges of photographing alongside crowds and other photographers
• Storytelling through wildlife photography: capturing the environment and the emotion
• The unforgettable moment Jason came face to face with a Mama Grizzly
• Lessons we’ll carry forward for future wildlife encounters