StoryScapes
A Landscape Photography Masterclass
Hosted at The Lodge at Bow Lake
Icefields Parkway, Banff National Park, Canada
October 12-16, 2026
Join us for 5 days of exclusive access to the Lodge at Bow Lake. You read that right: we’ll have the use of this charming, historic log cabin all to ourselves! The lodge is located right on the shores of one of Banff’s most beautiful lakes — the perfect place to explore the craft of landscape photography.
This workshop is suitable for all levels of photography.
~ 12 spots only ~
$5,950 CAD + GST | ~ $4,400 USD
installment plan available; see below
Spouses/Partners Welcome!
Spousal Rate (non-participant): $1,500 + GST
Please email us at workshops@zizka.ca to add a spouse to your registration.
Stretch your creativity in an awe-inspiring setting with award-winning landscape photographer, Paul Zizka.
StoryScapes: A Landscape Photography Masterclass brings us back to the building blocks of what makes for original and compelling landscape photography. And we can’t think of a better place to explore this concept than at The Lodge at Bow Lake. Paul should know; The Lodge at Bow Lake was once his home when he first arrived in the mountains. Take it from a guy who has lived there for 1,000 days: it’s truly the most remarkable car-access location in Banff National Park. It’s also a dream location for a retreat-style workshop that will help photographers grow as artists, providing quick access to iconic spots along the Icefields Parkway.
Guided by mentors Paul Zizka and fine art photographer Stasia Schmidt, with the support of fellow creatives, you’ll delve into what it means to approach iconic landscapes with purpose—and how to infuse your work and compositions with both meaning and a powerful visual narrative. With each passing day, we’ll build upon concepts and provide time for critiques, post-processing and helpful discussions that will bring your work to the next level.
StoryScapes will be an opportunity to challenge yourself. But what would a retreat be without time to unwind, reflect and curl up by the fire? With the restorative environment of the lodge entirely to ourselves, we’ll have the space to refuel in whatever way suits us best.
Here is what we’ll be exploring, as we go beyond gear and technique to tackle the elements that really catapult us forward and help us grow on our artistic journey:
What You’ll Learn
All compelling images follow a consistent flow of steps: conception of an idea, creative and technical setup of the idea, execution, culling to the strongest images, editing to tell the story, managing finished files, and printing. Every day at our StoryScapes workshop, we will break down each of these steps so that they become ingrained in your workflow. Less time wasted, more time creating. Less time agonizing over details, more time creating a body of work you’re proud of. We will cover all aspects of the creative process and technical know-how with the end goal that you will go home a stronger, more confident landscape photographer.
What you learn through this process will be invaluable to your craft and body of work moving forward.
What We’ll Cover
how to assess the potential of a scene
your creative vision and composition
choosing the appropriate tools and settings to best tell your story
developing the ability to self-critique
how to know when to stop, whether you’re working a scene in the field or editing an image
culling, or letting go of what could have been
editing for impact
printing your masterpiece
Where We’ll Go
Being based at Bow Lake, we’re really in the heart of some of the Rockies’ (and the world’s!) most stunning scenery, with good access to the world-famous Icefields Parkway. We’ll also go beyond the icons and share some more secluded favourite spots of ours. And when we’re not accessing locations by vehicle, we’re treated to natural subjects right at Bow Lake with its surrounding peaks, seasonal transition and all manner of light and conditions.
This workshop is suitable for all levels of photography.
Testimonials
“Attending this workshop was an unforgettable experience. From the moment I arrived, everything was first-class—the accommodations were stunning, and the staff provided exceptional service that made us feel truly welcomed and cared for.
The instruction and field sessions were exactly what I needed at this stage in my photography journey. Whether we were out in the field or gathered for discussion, I felt fully supported and encouraged to grow creatively.
Beyond the technical and artistic value of the workshop, what made it truly special was the atmosphere. Paul and Stasia are not only incredible photographers but also genuinely kind, down-to-earth people who are a lot of fun to be around. Their energy set the tone for a warm, collaborative environment that fostered connection and creativity.
This workshop exceeded my expectations in every way, and I’m deeply grateful for the experience. I left feeling inspired, motivated, and more confident in my work.”
- K. Rombough
“Paul is exceptional and his guidance during the workshop invaluable. His ability to encourage workshop attendees to stretch a bit and develop new or polish existing skills is done is a very non-threatening way.
It's not easy to take a group of workshop attendees of varying skill levels and personalities, and mold them into a cohesive group that prior to the workshop never knew each other. The workshop was well planned, organized and executed.”
- S. Gilmore
“This creative retreat was the perfect opportunity to be totally disconnected and immersed in creativity in one of the most beautiful places in the world. The classroom sessions were inspiring and informative and the time in the field was the right mix of assigned challenges and personal shooting time. The newly renovated lodge is beautiful, the food is amazing and you would be hard-pressed to find staff who are more customer-focused and friendly.
If you are looking for a workshop or retreat that lets you focus totally on photography without distractions, this is the one!”
- P. Jenks
“This photography workshop had everything I expected and more. From the warm welcome and sense of place that Paul and Stasia established from the moment of meeting them to the final goodbye. They both provided a comfortable and no pressure atmosphere in which to learn.
Paul and Stasia had a well developed and clear agenda for each day. There was no guessing what we were going to do. While it was a structured environment, which I like, there was plenty of time to fully explore each outing as well as participate in the various presentations provided by Paul and Stacia. I also loved the outings to nearby places of beauty to break up the day and add a little adventure.
Add to this the venue, the Lodge at Bow Lake. The lodge was recently renovated, the rooms were perfect and comfortable. The setting was incredible. The food was simply over the top. And the entire staff? I haven't been to any venue like this where they were better. (I have 3+ million miles on airplanes, and have traveled all over the world.)
I would highly recommend future workshops like this to any photographers of any skill level.”
- M. Riffle
Tap into your own creative flow.
Retreat Includes
daily instruction, mentoring and 1:1 guidance from Paul Zizka with the assistance of Stasia Schmidt
4 nights, all-inclusive stay in a private lodge room at The Lodge at Bow Lake
~ Private room
~ 250-300 sq ft of living space
~ Queen-sized bed
~ Spacious ensuite bathroom
~ Luxurious, cozy bedding
meals include:
~ unique daily creations for breakfast
~ lunch/packed lunches
~ après-hike
~ 4-course dinners
You’ll Take Care Of
transportation to and during the retreat
National Park Pass
alcoholic drinks
travel insurance
Our Itinerary
Itinerary is subject to change.
Check-in October 12, 2026 @ 3 PM | Check-out October 16, 2026 @ 10 AM
Sample Daily Itinerary
7:30 to 9 AM - Waking with Mother Nature and getting the creative juices flowing (optional)
9 AM- Breakfast
10 AM to 5:30 PM - Mix of field time, lectures, 1:1 time, field assignments, and critiques - and some time for relaxation of course!
6 to 7:30 PM - Group dinner
7:30 to 8:30PM - Culling and editing session
8:30 PM + - Potential informal get-together or night photography session
About the Lodge at Bow Lake
Standing under the watching eyes of Crowfoot Mountain since 1922, the Lodge at Bow Lake (formerly Num-Ti-Jah Lodge) was built by famed Rockies outfitter and guide, Jimmy Simpson. It is located just one hour from Banff, 2.5 hours from Calgary, making it easily accessible for international guests flying into Calgary International Airport. Though it closed during the pandemic, the lodge has new ownership that has invested in restoring the property and adding some modern amenities to its historic charm. We’re confident you’ll be blown away bt its location on the world-famous Icefields Parkway, and the ease of access we’ll have to the inspiring landscapes this region is best known for.
The Lodge at Bow Lake is a respite from our fast-paced, hyperconnected world. There are no telephones or TVs, and WiFi is not widely available. But you might just find the breathtaking nature and human-to-human conversations are a far superior replacement.
Our Team
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Paul Zizka
LEAD INSTRUCTOR
Paul Zizka is a Banff-based professional mountain landscape and adventure photographer and a sought-after photo educator. Whether it’s wading waist-deep into a glacier-fed lake or chasing auroras from dusk til dawn, Paul is known for an adventurous spirit that draws him to the extraordinary. In addition to eight published books, Paul’s award-winning photos have also been featured in a variety of publications, including Maclean’s, National Geographic Adventure, Huffington Post, and Canadian Geographic. [Photo: Trixie Pacis]
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Stasia Schmidt
ASSISTANT INSTRUCTOR
Stasia Schmidt is an acclaimed fine art photographer known for her keen eye for simplicity and form, as well as her meticulous attention to detail. As a self-taught artist, Stasia taps into a deep well of inspiration, drawing from her love of music, dance, science fiction, and adventure. Her award-winning project, “Ephemerality” is a testament to her ability to confront societal norms, prompting viewers to reconsider preconceived notions and perspectives. When not shooting, Stasia can be found writing, reading, raising teenagers, adventuring, and laughing loudly at inappropriate jokes. [Photo: Curtis Jones]
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Meghan J. Ward
MARKETING + LOGISTICS
A writer and creative entrepreneur based in Banff, Meghan takes time on the side to flex her sales and marketing skills for Paul Zizka Photography. She’s the ‘other half’ to Paul in numerous ways: as his wife, fellow adventurer and business partner. At Paul Zizka Photography she manages everything from brand to website, photo licensing, corporate sales and workshop logistics. She is the author of several books including a children’s book, The Wonders That I Find and a travel memoir, Lights to Guide Me Home. [Photo: Paul Zizka]
Retreat Dates:
October 12-16, 2026
Investment:
$5,950 CAD + GST | ~$4,400 USD
Installment option: Deposit upon registration of $1,650 CAD + GST with the final balance due February 15, 2026. Please contact us to arrange an alternative installment option.
Spouses/Partners Welcome!
Spousal Rate (non-participant): $1,500 + GST
Please email us at workshops@zizka.ca to add a spouse to your registration.
Cancellation:
*Participant deposits and installments are non-refundable, unless you are able to sell your spot. In this case, we can provide a refund minus a $250 administration fee. The spousal supplement can be cancelled before September 1, 2026.
This retreat requires a minimum of 8 participants to run.
