Rainforest

Photo: Paul Hodges

Join Paul Thomson and Adam Gibbs for a six-day photography tour that captures the essence of Vancouver Island—from the wild, rugged coastline to the serene beauty of ancient forests and flowing waterfalls.

Our journey begins on the island’s west coast with a stay in Port Renfrew, where we’ll immerse ourselves in the towering old-growth forests, home to some of the largest and oldest trees in Canada. It's a landscape of rich textures and atmospheric light, perfect for exploring the quiet intricacies of rainforest photography.

From there, we continue to make our way up the east coast and settle in Parksville, a hub for some of Vancouver Island’s most scenic waterfalls. Lastly, we travel northward to Hornby Island to photograph its fascinating tafoni rock formations and sublime coastal forests—sculpted patterns and surreal textures shaped by wind and sea.

This workshop is a celebration of water, forest, and coastal form—a dynamic blend of the island’s most compelling natural elements.

  • 8 Participants Total

  • Cost USD $4200

May 6th - 11th, 2026 Vancouver Island Tour

Important! Please note, In the event of a cancellation there is limited refund. Photography Booking Policy, please read.

Vancouver Island Photography Tour Itinerary

With Adam Gibbs & Paul Thomson | 6 Days | May 6th - 11th, 2026

Day 0 – Arrival in Nanaimo

Arrive in Nanaimo, where you’ll be picked up the next morning from the hotel.

Day 1 & 2 – Port Renfrew: Old-Growth Forests & Wild Coast

We begin our photographic adventure by heading to the west coast and the small town of Port Renfrew—a gateway to some of Canada's most impressive old-growth forests.

  • Explore the giants of Eden Grove and the moss-draped beauty of rainforest trails.

  • Coastal photography sessions at Botanical Beach and Sombrio Beach, known for dramatic tides and sea-carved rock

  • Two nights here allow us to immerse ourselves in the moody light and rich textures of the rainforest and shoreline.

Day 3–4 – Hornby Island: Patterns, Rock Formations & Woodland Calm

From Port Renfrew, we travel east along the coast of Vancouver Island to Parksville, home to several beautiful, accessible waterfalls.

  • Photograph iconic spots like Englishman River Falls and Little Qualicum Falls.

  • Experiment with long exposures and water flow compositions in lush forest settings

  • On the final evening, we’ll gather for a casual image review and reflection session.

Day 5 & 6 – Parksville: Waterfalls & Reflections

Our final stop takes us aboard a ferry to Hornby Island, one of the Gulf Islands nestled off the east coast.

  • Two nights on Hornby offer a peaceful retreat and a slower pace

  • We'll focus on quieter moments in nature—coastal woodlands, delicate patterns, and soft light

  • Photograph the island’s unique tafoni rock formations, shaped into surreal patterns by wind and water

  • Optional slow-paced walks through forested trails and along the shoreline for meditative shooting

Departure – Final Day

After breakfast, we’ll return to Nanaimo for drop-offs and final farewells. You’ll leave with a full memory card, new friendships, and inspiration from the diverse and wild beauty of Vancouver Island.

Heron Rocks, Hornby Island

What’s included:

  • 7-night single occupancy accommodation + optional 8th night in Nanaimo, should you want to leave the next day.

  • Transportation during the workshop

  • Ferry to Hornby

  • Photography guidance from Adam Gibbs and Paul Thomson

What’s not included:

  • Meals

  • Transportation to Vancouver Island

  • Accommodations after the workshop

  • Medical and travel insurance

More Information….

Where are Hornby Island, Port Renfrew and Parksville

Parksville lies on the east coast of Vancouver Island, overlooking the Strait of Georgia, approximately 30 km north of Nanaimo. The drive from Nanaimo takes about 30 minutes. Hornby Island is one of the northern Gulf Islands and takes roughly 50 minutes from Parksville to the ferry terminal at Buckley Bay. There are two ferry rides to Hornby, both taking approximately 15 minutes. Port Renfrew is located on the southwest section of the Island and takes roughly two hours to reach by car from Nanaimo.

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How hard will the hiking be? PLEASE READ, IMPORTANT!

Hiking? Who said anything about hiking? Yes, we will be walking to some locations. The distances are typically no more than 1 km. However, all locations will require a walk, including hills. If you have mobility issues, this trip may not be ideal for you. Please be aware that the group comes first, and if you are unable to walk, we will recommend that you stay behind.


What camera gear should I bring?

The following are some recommendations. Generally, we will focus primarily on landscape photography, but we may also encounter some opportunities for wildlife shooting. Ideally, since we will be walking throughout the day and carrying our gear, we should keep the equipment to a minimum. Here is a list of what we typically carry in the field. A more detailed "what to bring" list will be sent to you before the workshop. If you shoot wildlife and own or use a huge lens, you are welcome to bring it.

 

Camera Equipment:

 

  • Lightweight tripod w/ball head

  • Camera backpack

  • DSLR camera body

  • 14-24mm lens

  • 24-120mm lens

  • 70-200mm lens

  • Various ND filters/polarisers/holders for all lenses

  • 2 extra batteries

  • Lens pen/lens cloth

  • lens shade

 

Other items that should make your day more comfortable on the coast. Either worn or put in your pack for the day.

 

  • Rubber boots or waterproof hiking boots

  • Long pants

  • Brimmed hat

  • Warm jacket

  • Rain jacket

  • Snack bars/lunch/something to dr

  • Headlamp/flashlight

  • Sunglasses

 

Optional items:

 

  • Laptop computer

  • Umbrella

More Questions?