I've traveled in Alaska by car (i.e., not on a cruise). It's an interesting place, and you have to manage your expectations.

1. It is, as you say, huge. The car can only take you so many places. To see the best wildlife, you have to be willing to get on (and pay for) little puddle jumper planes. That being said, it's Alaska and you can see a moose in the middle of Anchorage, which could make for a great contrast in a photograph.

2. Bears are really cool. But watch this: http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/video/caught-tape-grizzly-bear-charges-photographers-15809722

3. The weather is unpredictable, and you have to be patient. I was there for 10 days, and out of those days only 2 were sunny. The other days were so overcast that you couldn't appreciate (or photograph!) any of the grand vistas. And plenty of rain, which you just have to fight through. My wife and I sea kayaked in a steady, light rain for 4 hours rather than cancel the outing. I needed to see those puffins in the water. My understanding is that many summer trips suffer the same fate. But those 2 sunny days were very special.

4. Not sure what kind of traveler you are, but it's a pretty utilitarian, yet expensive, place. And the restaurant food was very disappointing. By far, my best meal was the grilled halibut I prepared myself the evening after pulling that very halibut out of the ocean.

I've also vacationed in Oregon, which I loved. Still lots of outdoorsy activities and great photography, certainly less wildlife opportunities, but great food and drink. More my style....

Good luck!
Brian