Tips for Photography in Antarctica

Photography is one of the top reasons why people put an Antarctic cruise on their bucket list. From stunning landscapes to incredible wildlife, Antarctica offers photography opportunities unlike anywhere else on Earth. Whether your aim is to capture a colossal tabular iceberg or a king penguin feeding its chick, no matter what your Antarctica shot list entails you’ll be sure to return home with a plethora of incredible images that will stun everyone you show them to.

On each voyage, our Photographer-in-Residence is there to support and assist you in achieving your photography goals in Antarctica. They provide tips, advice, and feedback to help you capture the perfect shot, and shoot their own images of the voyage for you to take home in a keepsake at the end of your trip.

Here are some tips to get you prepared for the most spectacular photography safari of your life.

Know Your Gear

From the moment you step foot on the Zodiac for your first excursion, you’ll want to be able to take in every moment of your time in Antarctica as well as easily snap your photos. The last thing you’ll want to be doing is trying to figure out new gear or flipping through an owner’s manual. Make sure you are familiar with at least the basic functions of your camera. Sea days are perfect for getting organized, playing with settings, and reviewing each menu function. The more efficient you are in the field, the more you can enjoy the experience and capture amazing shots at the same time.

Variety Is Key

When shooting wildlife, it’s common to want to use tight compositions. Many people bring telephoto lenses, which are great for capturing details. But don’t forget to also include some of the environment or habitat. Doing so adds context and gives a sense of scale to the viewer. A variety of close-ups and wider shots will allow you to tell more of the story of this spectacular place.

Be Diverse

Everyone is always excited to grab a shot of their first penguin or breaching whale. As amazing as that is, sometimes it’s wise to look beyond the obvious. Some of the most inspiring images can feature the variation of colors in the ice, candid shots of your fellow passengers, or a magnificent ray of light. Be open to the possibilities and use your imagination!

Keep Focused

When it comes to snapping the most remarkable images, sometimes you only have a split second before the opportunity is gone. Be sure to know your focus and auto-focus inside and out. The last thing you want is to be trying to focus and miss your shot or get the shot but it’s out of focus.

Enjoy the Ride

Antarctica is one of the most astonishing places on earth. If you’ve finally made it there, don’t forget to enjoy the experience. After all, when will you have the opportunity to return? There will be so much going on it’s easy to get lost in the excitement and just start snapping away, trying to capture everything. But you need to remember to take a pause, breathe it in, and connect with it. That’s when you will truly bond with and understand this unique place, and once you’ve done that, the lasting and extraordinary images you’re seeking will present themselves to you.