Lord Howe Island • 7 Day
Lord Howe Island Photography Workshop
7 Day Lord Howe Island Photography Workshop
An unforgettable photography adventure on one of the world's most pristine island destinations.
Discover one of Australia's most extraordinary island destinations alongside internationally award-winning wildlife photographer Scott Portelli.
Join Scott on an immersive photography workshop to Lord Howe Island, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed island renowned for its dramatic volcanic peaks, crystal-clear lagoons, abundant birdlife and pristine marine environment.
Designed for photographers, nature lovers and adventure seekers, this small-group experience combines hands-on photographic tuition with unforgettable wildlife and landscape encounters. Photograph spectacular coastal scenery at sunrise and sunset, explore secluded beaches, capture nesting seabirds, and experience the island's vibrant coral reefs through snorkelling or diving.
Throughout the week, Scott will guide you in landscape, wildlife, underwater, aerial and astrophotography, sharing the techniques, fieldcraft and creative approach developed over decades photographing some of the world's most remote environments.
Whether you're an experienced photographer or simply looking to improve your skills while exploring an incredible destination, this workshop offers the perfect balance of learning, adventure and relaxation.
Trip Details
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2027
April -
Sydney, Australia
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Sample Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival & Welcome
Fly from Sydney to Lord Howe Island
Transfer to accommodation
Welcome dinner and workshop briefing
Sunset photography session (conditions permitting)
Day 2 – Coastal Landscapes & Surf Photography
Sunrise at Blinky Beach
Photography tuition and image review
Surf and coastal photography session
Sunset landscape photography
Day 3 – Underwater Exploration
Dive or snorkel the lagoon and coral reefs
Underwater photography techniques
Marine life photography
Evening image critique
Day 4 – Wildlife & Astrophotography
Morning bird photography
Free afternoon to explore or relax
Night sky and Milky Way photography workshop
Day 5 – Aerial & Landscape Photography
Drone photography session (BYO drone)
Scenic island landscapes
Sunset shoot at one of Lord Howe's iconic locations
Day 6 – Underwater & Beach Photography
Dive or snorkel excursion
Ned's Beach split-shot photography
Wildlife encounters
Editing and workflow session
Day 7 – Island Exploration
Flexible photography day based on weather and wildlife
Hiking or additional coastal locations
Farewell dinner
Day 8 – Departure
Final sunrise (optional)
Breakfast
Airport transfer
Return flight to Sydney
Important Information
Please note this itinerary is a guide only. Activities may change depending on weather, sea conditions, wildlife behaviour and local operational requirements to ensure the best possible photographic opportunities.
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7 day
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Maximum 8 Guests
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Packages
Divers package
AUD $9,950Non-divers package
AUD $8,350
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Deposit AUD $1000 per person (non-refundable)
Trip Highlights
Explore the pristine landscapes and crystal-clear waters of Lord Howe Island, one of Australia's most spectacular World Heritage-listed destinations.
Photograph dramatic mountain peaks, turquoise lagoons, secluded beaches and unique island scenery during the island's best light at sunrise and sunset.
Capture the island's remarkable wildlife, including endemic bird species, marine life and coastal landscapes with guidance from internationally award-winning wildlife photographer Scott Portelli.
Snorkel or dive vibrant coral reefs, where you'll have opportunities to photograph colourful fish, sea turtles and the island's rich underwater ecosystem.
Develop your skills across wildlife, landscape, underwater, aerial and astrophotography through hands-on field tuition, image reviews and practical workshops.
Experience an intimate small-group workshop designed for photographers of all skill levels, with personalised guidance throughout the expedition.
What’s Included
Return flights from Sydney to Lord Howe Island
7 nights twin-share accommodation
Return airport transfers on Lord Howe Island
All airport taxes
Transport throughout the island
Six guided dive or snorkel excursions (depending on your package)
Dive and snorkel equipment
Morning tea on dive and boat excursion days
Welcome dinner and farewell dinner
Practical photography workshops with Scott Portelli
Personalised photographic tuition in the field
Image review and editing sessions
Guidance across wildlife, landscape, underwater, aerial and astrophotography
Experienced dive and snorkel guides
What’s Not Included
International or domestic flights to Sydney
Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Meals not specified in the itinerary
Alcoholic beverages
Personal expenses
Camera equipment and accessories
Drone (required for aerial photography sessions)
Dive certification (required for diving participants)
Single supplement (available at an additional cost)
Optional activities outside the workshop program
Gratuities
Any costs associated with itinerary changes due to weather or circumstances beyond our control
Frequently Asked Questions
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Cancellation Period
Cancellation of a booking or part thereof will incur the following fees based on the notice period prior to any tour. Once travel has commenced, no refunds will be made for any unused services and clients will be responsible for their travel arrangements and insurance.A deposit for any tour is made upon booking to secure your place on the tour, this is non-refundable. By paying the invoice for deposit you accept these terms and conditions.
If a cancellation is made less than 1 month (30 Days) prior to the tour date, we will not reimburse the cost of the tour.
If a cancellation is made within 1-2 months (60 Days) prior to the tour date, we will reimburse the cost of the tour up to 10% minus the deposit which is non refundable upon booking the tour and any admin fees incurred.
If a cancellation is made within 3 months (90 Days) prior to the tour date we will reimburse the cost of the tour up to 15% minus the deposit which is non refundable upon booking the tour and any admin fees incurred.
If a cancellation is made within 3 – 6 months (180 Days) prior to the tour date we will reimburse the cost of the tour up to 20% minus the deposit which is non refundable upon booking the tour and any admin fees incurred.
Cancellations made by the organiser to a tour will be reimbursed in full (Not including the deposit which is Non-refundable).
Note: If the booking has been rescheduled and the cancellation is requested, this will be considered a new booking and subject to our standard terms and conditions.If for any reason weather or operational cancellation of a single day occurs during the tour, there is no refund provided if the circumstances are out of the control of the organiser.
Itinerary Disclaimer
The itineraries on our websites are correct at time of publishing and may differ slightly depending on changes to local operations, foreign policy and laws, availability of resources, flight schedules, and supplier cost. In the case of any changes, the organiser will endeavour to provide an alternative option to continue your itinerary.
Insurance Policy
Travel insurance is NOT included in the cost of your tour. We strongly recommend that passengers arrange their own travel insurance. Insurance is required before arriving at your destination to ensure you are covered for unforeseen situations that may arise to cause loss of luggage, cancellation of flights and tours or medical emergencies.
Scott Portelli and affiliates are not responsible for loss or damage of any equipment whilst participating in these activities. Appropriate travel insurance should be arranged prior to visiting your destination.
Release Forms/Waivers
While the organiser makes every effort to safeguard our clients, we cannot be held responsible for personal injury or loss due to events beyond our control. Wildlife tourism carries inherent risk as you are interacting with wild animals and a signed release form is required from all participants before tour departure. This is signed on the first day of departure or prior to arriving at your destination on each separate tour. Guests are encourage to download this liability waiver and return back to us prior to your tour.
Foreign Currency
As of October 2023, all general tour costs are quoted in $USD as suppliers and operations in the region move to a more stable currency for services rendered. Current exemptions are Norway (quoted in Euros), Falkland Islands (quoted in GBP Pounds), and Australia (Australian Dollars).
For local currency, please notice that Tongan Pa’anga is still the currency used while visiting the Tongan islands and will be the only accepted form of currency for tourist in Tonga. For other destinations, please check which local currency will be required. NOTE: Tour prices are subject to change year on year and will be reflected in the tour itinerary prior to each season.
Visas for Tonga
Please review the visa requirements for your country here
Visas for Norway
Norway’s visa requirements vary according to the traveller’s country of origin, the purpose of traveling and the period of stay. Please review the visa requirements for your country here
Visas for Australia
Please review the visa requirements for your country here
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This workshop is designed for photographers of all skill levels, from enthusiastic beginners through to experienced professionals. Scott provides personalised guidance to help you get the most from your camera and your time on the island.
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No. Whether you're learning the fundamentals or refining advanced techniques, the workshop is tailored to your experience and photographic goals.
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Absolutely. Partners and travellers with an interest in nature, wildlife and the outdoors are welcome to join and enjoy the island experience.
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Only if you've booked the diving package. If you're not dive certified, you can choose the snorkelling option and still enjoy many of Lord Howe Island's incredible marine encounters.
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A DSLR or mirrorless camera is recommended, along with a wide-angle lens, telephoto lens, tripod and plenty of memory cards and spare batteries. An underwater housing is required if you wish to photograph underwater with your own camera.
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Yes. Drone photography sessions are included for guests who bring their own drone. All flights must comply with local regulations and weather conditions.
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Yes. Seven nights' twin-share accommodation is included. A single supplement is available for guests who prefer their own room.
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A moderate level of fitness is recommended. Some photography locations involve walking on uneven terrain, while snorkelling and diving require participants to be comfortable in the water.
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The itinerary is flexible to maximise photographic opportunities. Scott will adjust locations and activities based on weather, sea conditions and wildlife activity to ensure the best possible experience.
Designed by Scott Portelli
Every expedition reflects more than three decades of experience exploring and photographing some of the world's most remote environments.
Internationally recognised wildlife photographer, filmmaker and expedition specialist Scott Portelli has spent more than a decade working throughout Antarctica and the Sub-Antarctic, developing an intimate understanding of the region's wildlife, landscapes and seasonal conditions.
His experience has shaped every aspect of this journey, from the itinerary and timing to the wildlife encounters and photographic opportunities, creating an experience that goes beyond simply visiting these extraordinary places.
Whether Scott is leading the expedition himself or working alongside a trusted expedition team, guests can expect the same commitment to immersive wildlife experiences, responsible travel and exceptional photographic opportunities that define the Scott Portelli brand.