Photographer's Paradise: Capturing the Beauty of Whales in Perth
The salty breeze carries a promise of adventure and the gentle rock of the vessel beneath your feet is a reminder that you're about to embark on a journey like no other. This is your passport to the photographer’s paradise, the exclusive opportunity to capture the beauty of whales in their natural habitat, right here in Perth's crystal-clear waters.
Whale watching in Perth is not merely a pastime; it's an art form, a symphony of nature and an unforgettable experience waiting to be captured through the lens of your camera. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or an enthusiast with a smartphone, this journey is designed to inspire, educate and help you create stunning visual memories that will stay with you long after the waves have settled.
The Whales of Perth
In the waters around Perth, several whale species are commonly spotted. These include the humpback whale, southern right whale and the occasional visit from the majestic blue whale. Perth is particularly renowned for its humpback whale population. From September to November, these oceans come alive with the spectacular sight of humpback whales making their way along the Western Australian coast.
Perth's strategic location along the migratory path of these whales has established it as a prime whale-watching destination. The city serves as a vital stopover for these gentle giants, making it an ideal place to catch a glimpse of them in their natural habitat. The unique combination of clear waters and abundant marine life has elevated Perth's status as a top-tier location for whale watching.
Preparing for the Photography Adventure
Preparing for a whale photography adventure is crucial to ensure you capture stunning images while on one of our whale watching tours. Here's a breakdown of the essential elements to consider:
Camera - A DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings is highly recommended for greater control over your shots.
Lenses - Invest in a telephoto lens with a long focal length (e.g., 70-200mm or 100-400mm) to capture distant subjects effectively. A wide-angle lens can also be handy for shots of breaching whales or scenic views.
Lens Hood and Filters - These can help reduce glare and protect your lens from saltwater mist.
Extra Batteries and Memory Cards - Ensure you have sufficient power and storage for a day of shooting.
Tips for Capturing Stunning Whale Photos
Capturing stunning whale photos during a whale-watching tour requires a combination of technical skill and an understanding of these magnificent creatures' behaviour. Before your tour, familiarise yourself with the behaviour of the humpback whale. Learn about breaching, tail slapping, spy hopping and other typical whale activity.
Keep an eye out for signs such as diving patterns, surface ripples or blowhole sprays that may indicate a breach or other exciting activity. Be patient and attentive. Whales often surface unexpectedly, so you need to be ready to capture the moment when it happens.
Tips to Compose Your Shots for Maximum Impact:
Rule of Thirds - Apply the rule of thirds to create visually appealing compositions. Place the horizon and the whale's action in one of the horizontal or vertical thirds of the frame.
Frame the Shot - Use elements in the foreground, such as the boat's railing, to add depth and context to your images.
Leading Lines - Use leading lines, such as the whale's trajectory or waves, to guide the viewer's eye toward the subject.
Tips to Utilise Natural Lighting and the Right Angles:
Backlighting - Experiment with backlighting to create dramatic silhouettes of breaching whales against the sun. Use spot metering to expose for the subject.
Low Angles - Get down to water level or even lower to capture the whale against the sky or ocean, which can provide a unique perspective.
Shutter Speed - Adjust your shutter speed to control the motion of splashing water or the whale's movement.
By understanding whale behaviour, composing your shots thoughtfully and leveraging natural lighting and angles, you can increase your chances of capturing stunning whale photos that not only showcase the beauty of these creatures but also tell a compelling visual story of your whale watching tour.
Sue Doble
Sue Doble
Framing Patience – The Art of Whale Photography
As a photographer, each day on a whale-watching tour is an exhilarating journey into the unknown, filled with excitement and challenges. Whale watching is, in many ways, a waiting game. We keep our eyes peeled for telltale signs, such as the elusive blow, a water spout-like exhalation from the whale's blowhole or perhaps the flick of a massive tail fin.
Whale photographers on our tours share some personal anecdotes during this extraordinary experience.
One of my most memorable moments was capturing a mother and calf swimming gracefully alongside the boat. The affection and connection between them were tangible, and the photo is a treasured keepsake.
During my 2022 tour, I was fortunate enough to witness a rare, synchronised breach of two humpbacks. It was a breath-taking display of power and beauty that I'll never forget.
The thrill of the hunt, the waiting game and the moments of pure awe when we capture that breathtaking image are what make this experience truly unforgettable. As the saying goes, "A picture is worth a thousand words." To truly understand the magnificence of Perth's whales, there's no substitute for witnessing it in person.