Photography

Photography on an expedition ship, especially in remote and stunning locations like Antarctica, is an enriching activity that allows travellers to capture breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife, and memorable journey moments. 

What you see on these trips can be so spectacular and humbling that with a camera, it would be easier to convey to people when you return or on your social media. 

One of our writers, a professional photographer and expedition team member, says it best when he notes that whether photography is your thing or not, there is a very high chance that you will be a total convert by the end of your cruise. 

There are reasons for this observation: wildlife encounters are almost guaranteed, and the scenery can be so spectacular that even an amateur snap with a phone can look like a stock photo. 

On expedition cruises, there is the added benefit that most are also accompanied by a professional, who will give tips and lectures and answer questions about techniques and equipment. It is an enriching experience to finish a day’s landings or zodiac tours and then enjoy a presentation of stunning photography from that same day. 

There may also be specialised excursions on Zodiacs and shore landings that are focused on photography and designed to provide optimal photography opportunities for lighting conditions and wildlife activity. The polar regions, in particular, can present lighting challenges for photographers, so having experts on hand to guide such tours is important. Specialist photography trips will not incur additional costs on top of the fare, and you will be asked to sign up for such opportunities on the previous day. It is also common to see the professional photographer onboard fielding questions in a Q&A-type setting, either in the lecture theatre or bar areas. 

Your expedition team will also ensure that all guests are briefed on the ethical practices required on these cruises. Responsible photography is critical, ensuring minimal disturbance to wildlife and adherence to environmental guidelines and protocols. This includes maintaining a safe distance from animals and not altering the natural environment for the sake of a photo. 

As with other activities like birding, expedition cruises foster a sense of community among amateur or keen photographers; there are opportunities to share and discuss images with like-minded passengers, participate in group critiques, and even display your photos in evening presentations.

From capturing extraordinary memories to enhancing your observation skills and educational value, photography on an expedition ship is a highly enriching activity that combines adventure, education, and artistry. Whether you are a seasoned photographer or a beginner, the unique opportunities and guidance on these journeys enable you to capture the awe-inspiring beauty and wildlife of some of the most remote regions on Earth.