Photographer Mary Jacquel shares what Alaska has taught her about slowing down, mindful living, and seeing the world through a more intentional lens.
What Alaska Taught Me About Slowing Down: A Photographer’s Perspective
5 Peaceful Places in Alaska to Recharge Your Mind and Spirit
There’s something about Alaska that humbles you in the best way. Maybe it’s the sound of wind rustling through a forest of spruce, or the quiet hush that settles over a glacial lake at dawn. For those of us craving peace, presence, and a little space to breathe, Alaska offers more than adventure—it offers renewal.
Whether you're visiting for the first time or you’ve called this wild land home for years, these five serene places invite you to slow down, tune in, and reconnect with yourself and the world around you.
Whale Watching in Alaska: Best Times and Locations for Spotting Humpbacks and Orcas
Alaska's pristine waters offer one of the most magical wildlife experiences on Earth: whale watching. With massive humpbacks breaching in icy bays and pods of orcas slicing through the water in elegant unison, the experience leaves a lasting impression. I love nature and photography (as you can probably tell) and I’ve gathered a few considerations to help you plan an unforgettable whale-watching adventure in Alaska.
The 10 Most Photogenic Spots in Alaska (That Tourists Often Miss)
Alaska is known for its grand glaciers and wildlife, but beyond the cruise ship ports and national parks are lesser-known locations that offer unmatched photography potential. As a photographer based in Juneau, I’ve spent years chasing the light, the landscape, and the stillness. Here are 10 photogenic spots you might miss on a typical tour—but absolutely shouldn’t.
Where to See and Photograph Bald Eagles in Alaska: A Travel & Photography Guide
Planning a trip to Alaska? Discover the best places to see and photograph bald eagles in the wild, from Haines to Juneau. This travel and photography guide offers expert tips, ideal travel times, and a stunning video capturing eagles in flight across Southeast Alaska.
Capturing the Northern Lights: Photography Tips and Best Viewing Times
Discover when and where to see the northern lights in Alaska, plus expert photography tips from Mary Jacquel. Learn how to photograph the aurora with confidence.
Secret Places to Visit in Juneau Alaska
This article may be especially helpful if you're docking in Juneau, Alaska for just a day and you want to make the most of your time in this vibrant capital city.
Here’s your insider's guide tailored specifically for cruise passengers—whether you're exploring on foot from the port or have transportation and a few extra hours to venture beyond downtown.
What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise: A Local’s Guide from Juneau
When people ask me what to pack for an Alaska cruise, I always smile — because as someone who lives in Juneau, I know just how wildly the weather and experiences can change from hour to hour. Whether you're photographing glaciers, exploring charming coastal towns, or spotting whales from your balcony, the right gear can make all the difference. If you want to travel Alaska prepared — and capture it beautifully — here’s your ultimate packing list straight from a local who lives it every day.
A Photographer’s Guide to Petersburg, Alaska: Where Nature and Nordic Charm Collide
Hidden in the heart of Southeast Alaska, Petersburg is a town that feels like a secret whispered by the fjords. Located on Mitkof Island and only accessible by air or sea, it offers a rare blend of rich cultural history and rugged natural beauty that few other destinations can match. For photographers, it’s a playground of texture, color, wildlife, and light—just waiting to be captured.
My first visit to Petersburg was fast - it was a stop along the way to a fishing lodge on a nearby island. However, the charm of the tiny airport, the fresh air and the beauty of the Wrangell Narrows captures my sense of wonder. I’ve been back to Petersburg many times and have had Papa Bear’s pizza almost every trip.
A Photographer's Guide to a Perfect Day in Icy Strait Point
If you’re venturing to Icy Strait Point on your Alaska journey, you’re in for something truly special. As someone who calls Juneau home, I can tell you—this little port near Hoonah is one of the most authentic slices of Southeast Alaska you can experience in just a single day. From wildlife and Native culture to adventure and slow moments of wonder, it’s all here and every bit of it is camera-worthy.
What to Do in Skagway in One Day: A Cruise Passenger’s Guide with Breathtaking Photo Stops
Discover the best things to do in Skagway, Alaska in one day! This cruise-friendly guide highlights must-see sights, local gems, and incredible photo spots perfect for your Alaska travel scrapbook.
Skagway is a tiny but mighty town bursting with frontier history, dramatic mountain scenery, and picture-perfect charm. For cruise passengers docking for just one day, this Skagway travel guide delivers the top experiences and best photography locations, all within reach of the port.
What to Do in Ketchikan in One Day: A Cruise Passenger’s Guide with Stunning Photo Spots
Make the most of your cruise stop in Ketchikan, Alaska with this one-day guide! Discover local culture, top excursions, hidden gems, and the best photo spots for capturing Alaska's natural beauty.
Ketchikan, known as Alaska’s First City and the Salmon Capital of the World, is a vibrant coastal town brimming with native culture, rich history, and breathtaking scenery. Nestled in the heart of the Tongass National Forest, it’s one of the most photogenic towns along the Inside Passage — making it a dream destination for travelers and photographers alike.
Whether you're here for a few hours or a full day, this guide will help you experience the best of Ketchikan — and bring home frame-worthy photos of your Alaska adventure.
Avoid These Common Mistakes When Traveling to Alaska
Alaska is a dream destination for many travelers, but this beautiful state comes with its own set of challenges. From my perspective, these challenges can be overcome with the right amount of planning.
Each year, I talk to seasoned travelers who would have preferred to make slight tweaks when navigating Alaska’s vast landscapes and rugged conditions.
So I thought writing a post about their feedback could help ensure a smooth and rewarding journey as you head up this way to Alaska and help avoid these common mistakes that visitors often make.
Best Hiking Trails in Juneau, Alaska: A Guide to Scenic Adventures
I love the hiking trails around Juneau. Moving from the east coast of the USA, elevation was a brand new thing for me and turns out I like it. I’m a simple hiker, generally heading out on trails that will take a mid to full day and not one to try anything too treacherous (I do not like feeling as if I’ll fall off the side of the mountain). However, I am a view seeker! The higher the elevation, the better the view (sometimes!).
After hiking Mount Roberts yesterday, it occurred to me that I have not pulled together a post dedicated to hiking in Juneau. What a great day to do so!
In this post, I’ll share the following:
What I wear and what I pack
My favorite hiking trails based out of Juneau
Considerations for different times of the season