04
Jul
A whaling adventure is a magnificent way to spend time in Byron Bay. There is something majestic about the way the Humpbacks glide elegantly through the water, their playful interactions, a slap or a snuggle and the moaning calls which, echo across the water completing the experience.
Humpback whales travel north from Antarctica along the East Coast of Australia between May and July and south between September and November on their way home so there is plenty of time to catch a glimpse.
Recognising a Humpback
Humpback whales are easy to recognise because of the blow hole out of which they shoot vapoured water as well as their unique ability to launch themselves clean out of the water.
They are also recognised by their bumpy-edged pectoral fin, which they like to stick out into the air and wave. Unlike other whales, the humpbacks’ pectoral fins have scalloped edges.
Large numbers of barnacles can be seen on the fin and face.
If you can see them side by side, the females are slightly larger.
You can read more details on the NSW Government’s Environment and Heritage page.
Photography Tips
Multiple Trips
I like to plan several trips out during the migration because you never know what you might see, if anything at all. That also means I can get a variety of shots, focusing on composition in addition to the regular shots.
Morning or Sunset?
I like to plan one of each. There seems to be a great deal of activity in the early morning but the glorious light offered by the setting sun is difficult to resist.
Canon R5 and 100-400 lens
I take just one camera and one lens. Whilst you think you may have time to load two camera bodies, the whales are unpredictable and you don’t have time to switch.
Camera Settings
I messed around a bit and as the boat was bumpy, accidentally bumped my settings but I was usually around 1/4000th second @f8 with fast framerate.
Our Adventure Warriors
Our adventure was led by the team at Blue Bay Divers. Extremely experienced guides who knew the coastline and the whale behaviour very well. I felt safe, which allowed me to focus on the beautiful whales.
