All this gear, combined with CP and ND filters, lens/sensor cleaners, chargers, iPad, etc, was packed into the ThinkTank Streetwalker HD. This backpack worked out very well as my main carry bag.  It allowed me to pack everything - including my Nikon d7000, battery grip attached, coupled with my choice of lens.  I was also able to fit this backpack under the center or aisle seat of my cross country flight.  The total carrying weight was around 25 pounds. (I did learn that it would not fit completely when stowed under the United Airlines 'Economy' window seat.)  

I also packed in my checked luggage, a tripod, ThinkTank Speed Freak (shoulder bag) and ThinkTank Speed Changer Modular pack. I intended to use the shoulder bag once I was settled in at the hotel and could move selected gear from by backpack for the day's shoot.  The Speed Freak allowed me to carry my camera with attached walk-around lens and a two spare lenses for quick access.  I was able to carry the 70-200, 17-55, 11-16 and TC.14 without problem.  And, it could be sealed to keep out moisture.  For shots using a tripod and working from a vehicle, I often brought my fully loaded backpack.  It is important to travel light whenever possible.  However, when working from a vehicle, having everything in one place can be quite convenient.  I also left my tripod fully extended for quick access and ready for action.

Planning is the most important part

of any photoshoot

Planning

Before I traveled to Wyoming, I planned out what I wanted to shoot each day.  Since  the Wyoming weather can be very unpredictable, I often had to have a 'Plan B'.  If the mountains were socked in with clouds, I knew the only possible shots were going to be on the ground - that is if I could even get around.  I knew I needed to book any activities in advance.  Arranging for a snowmobile and dogsled should be reserved weeks  ahead - not the day of.  And, Yellowstone has a strict limit as to how many snowmobiles are permitted in the park each day.  So it really becomes a gamble - but can be well worth it if the weather cooperates.  Planning is the most important part of any photoshoot, and Wyoming is certainly no exception.  Trust me on that!

Subject Matter

I decided to divide my photoshoots into three subjects groups to be shot in two different areas - Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone.

The first subject was naturally the landscape in Grand Teton National Park.  When in the Jackson area and traveling north, you will be on the eastern side of the Tetons and will want to shoot early in the day (beginning at first light).  This is when you will gain your best exposure and colors of the mountains.  Images taken much  later in the day will have you shooting into the sun and will result in less than desired images.  The second subject was man's contribution to the area - the town, the people, old structures, etc.  

There are many good locations throughout the Jackson area - especially Mormon Row which became well know for its barns and the subject of a few Ansel Adams captures. The last subject was the wildlife in the area.   For guaranteed shots of Elk, the Elk Preserve in Jackson offers sleigh rides that will bring you up close and personal with the heard.  Just on the other side of the Preserve you may find both Big Horn Sheep and Mule Deer standing along the mountainside.  You may also see Golden Eagles flying overhead looking for a meal.  To see other wildlife, I would highly recommend going on a Wildlife Safari (~$300).  For your best shots: be prepared, keep your eyes open and look all around.  And be patient.

The other location you will want to investigate is Yellowstone National Park, about an hour's drive north of Jackson.  There are really only two ways of getting around in Yellowstone in the winter - snow coach and snowmobile.  If you are up for a little adventure, there is nothing like riding a snowmobile for getting close to nature and the pure excitement of traveling down snow covered passes. Most tours are half day or full day and take you either to Old Faithful or the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.  (You can also rent one and go on your own - we went with a guide.)

You will find that the trip to Old Faithful is like going to Disney and the trip to the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is truly the 'road less traveled'.  Our journey took us 162 miles at speeds of nearly 60mph.  We were picked up at 6:30am (in Teton Village) and returned at 6:30pm by the tour company.  Quite a full day indeed.  We were provided, (if so desired), boots, body suit and helmet.  For us, breakfast and lunch were included.  (About $300 per person). 

Be prepared to see wildlife

anywhere - at any time

When traveling in Yellowstone, you can see a variety of wildlife including Bison, Coyotes, Wolves, Eagles and possibly much more - or much less. But the real show stopper of Yellowstone is the amazing landscape.  You will encounter beautiful frozen waterfalls, snow covered canyons, bubbling hot springs and steaming geysers.  There is nothing like this area.  The Lower Falls offers a speical opportunity to use a wide angle lens to capture the full beauty of the canyon.  In order to capture the full beauty of the waterfall itself, however, a switch over to a telephoto is necessary. Other popular areas, Inspiration Point, The Upper Falls, and such are generally not plowed and not accessible - even by snowmobile.

Shoot low and wide

Other truly amazing features of Yellowstone, and for which it is really known, are the geysers and hot springs.  A wide-angle is the best here to capture their beauty.  Get down low for an interesting perspective. When using a wide-angle lens - be sure to include foreground and background in your capture.

Be careful - the steam, if blowing in the wrong direction, can easily fog up you expensive equipment.  The colors can be amazing and if you are lucky to catch this area on a day filled with blue sky, the colors will just pop.  Try different angles - be creative and have fun!

Getting Around

In addition to traveling by car and snowmobile, for something really different, take a ride by dogsled through Grand Teton National Park. Togowetee Pass in the Tetons can be both peaceful and offer some wonderful views of the mountains - weather providing. Tours operate either half day or full day and include transportation and meal(s).  A half day costs around $250/person and the sled holds two passengers plus the driver. Although this is a great experience, there are limited opportunities for the photographer.

There are some shots that you may need to take to off road by foot - and here you will need snowshoes.  Without snowshoes, you will posthole through the snow which may easily go up to your waist.  In the winter, although many of the roads are plowed on a relgular basis, there are a number of areas that there is no way to access.  Here you strap on the snowshoes and take a walk.