Algonquin Park Photography Retreat at Bartlett Lodge

For us, Bartlett Lodge isn't just a beautiful venue, it's a place deeply woven into our personal history. It’s where our story began…the site of our first date and where we celebrated our honeymoon, making it a location that holds a special place in our hearts. Our connection extends beyond these cherished memories to a personal relationship with Marilyn and Kim, devoted lovebirds and owners who, along with their exceptional staff, truly embody the heart and soul of the park. Bartlett Lodge is a sanctuary deeply connected to the surrounding wilderness. It's our favourite dock in Algonquin, a place where we feel at home.

Step into a piece of Canadian history with a stay in the Artist Suites, nestled within a century-old log building overlooking the tranquil waters of Cache Lake. Each suite offers either a luxurious king-size bed or the option to split into two singles, perfect for friends or couples traveling together.

Inside, you’ll find a cozy sitting area, a three-piece bathroom, a compact bar fridge for your essentials, and a screened porch that opens to the peaceful bay—ideal for morning coffees or evening reflections.

The rooms are adorned with prints by iconic Canadian painters A.Y. Jackson and Lawren Harris, adding a touch of inspiration to your stay. Just steps away, you'll have access to Isabel’s Cabin Guest Lounge, our communal space for shared meals and photo editing sessions.

All suites are booked on a double occupancy basis, creating a warm and social retreat atmosphere for our guests.

Executive Chef, Robert Huff, delivers mouthwatering, multi-course meals. The evening offers a fine dining experience guided by a philosophy of sustainability and respect for nature. Every dish is crafted using local ingredients, whenever possible. Additionally, the menu thoughtfully includes options to accommodate a variety of diets, including vegan, gluten-free, vegetarian, dairy-free, and pescatarian, ensuring a delightful experience for everyone.

Experience the charm of Bartlett Lodge from the moment you arrive. You'll be picked up at the Cache Lake shoreline dock in Bartlett's antique freighter canoe or solar-powered pontoon boat, setting the tone for a stylish and unique adventure. The water taxi service ensures a seamless journey, complete with a parking permit for your convenience. Let us transport you to the lodge in style, where your unforgettable retreat begins.

Our workshops at Bartlett Lodge are designed to be intimate, flexible, and comfortable. Pricing is based on double occupancy, with each guest sharing a cozy studio room. If you're joining solo, no worries as we’ll thoughtfully pair you with another photographer in the group. If you're traveling with a friend or partner, let us know and we’ll room you together. With just 4 guests in total, every part of this experience is designed to feel personal and relaxed.

Start your adventure in Algonquin Park by learning your camera settings and compositional techniques, all while respecting wildlife and their habitats. You'll learn ethical practices as a core skill, including how to minimize your impact on the environment by avoiding baiting, keeping a respectful distance, and protecting vulnerable locations. You’ll learn how to photograph responsibly and leave no trace, so you can honour nature while expanding your portfolio.

Gain the ability to interpret common signs of animal activity, such as tracks and scat, which will help you to anticipate animal behaviour and position yourself for optimal photographic opportunities. By understanding these signs, you'll be better equipped to spot and photograph elusive wildlife, and enhance your chances of capturing memorable moments.

Our Bartlett Lodge Retreats, offered only twice a year, provide unparalleled access to Algonquin Park's most spectacular seasons. In Spring, witness the park’s adorable newborns during the height of baby season. In Fall, immerse yourself in Algonquin’s peak colour change and hopefully photograph majestic bull moose. These are exclusive opportunities you won’t want to miss.

If visiting waterfalls interests you, during our journey through Algonquin, we’ll visit waterfalls and rapids where you can learn to blur motion using long exposure techniques. This is a great introduction to this style of shooting, and we’ll experiment with filters and abstract compositions. Understanding long exposure techniques will add a new dimension to your photography, enabling you to capture the dynamic beauty of moving water in creative and visually stunning ways.

In wildlife and landscape photography, challenges like varying weather and low light can impact image quality. With targeted editing techniques, you can reveal incredible detail and enhance your images. Our photo editing sessions at the lodge will focus on essential skills, such as reducing digital noise from high ISO settings and adding depth to your images. You’ll also learn to develop a consistent aesthetic across your portfolio, ensuring your images always look their best, regardless of shooting conditions.