Last weekend, I had the pleasure of leading my latest Whale Photography Workshop as part of the Island Whale Festival on Phillip Island. It was an inspiring morning spent with a group of keen photographers, all eager to learn how to capture these magnificent animals while supporting marine conservation.
We began the session with a short presentation on whale behaviour and migration patterns along the Bass Coast, followed by a practical guide to ethical wildlife photography — keeping distance, avoiding disturbance, and using equipment settings that respect the animal’s environment. As always, my aim was to show how photography can contribute to citizen science and deepen our understanding of marine life.
Afterward, we moved to the lookout points near Cape Woolamai, where several humpback whales were sighted heading east. The excitement was palpable as participants put their new skills to the test, adjusting shutter speeds and tracking movement across the waves. Some even managed to capture breaching shots worthy of a magazine cover!
I was reminded again how photography connects us to nature in powerful ways. Every image tells a story — and sometimes, those stories help protect the very subjects we love to photograph.
This workshop was part of my ongoing series combining eco photography, education, and community connection. I’ll be announcing new sessions soon, including coastal landscape and astro workshops around Inverloch and San Remo.
For updates on upcoming events or to join my mailing list, visit peterfogartyphotography.com.au or email me at peter@peterfogartyphotography.com.au.
— Peter Fogarty
