Join Me at Nguthungulli Julian Rocks

Leopard Sharks & Manta Ray Workshop

Byron Bay | 20th December 2025
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YOUR EXPERIENCE

  • Nguthungulli Julian Rocks, Byron Bay

  • 20th December 2025

  • Full day workshop

  • Photography, Videography, Editing, & Marine Education

  • Inclusive of 2 x boat trips

  • AUD $595

  • Includes Lunch, refreshments, snorkel equipment hire

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EDUCATION IN THE FIELD

Every summer from December to March, Leopard Sharks & Manta Rays migrate south from the warm waters of the Great Barrier Reef to the subtropical coastline of Byron Bay. Here, at Nguthungulli / Julian Rocks, leopard sharks gather in remarkable numbers, resting gracefully on the sandy seabed and cruising through the shallows of the nursery. These clear, protected waters create one of the largest known aggregations of Leopard Sharks in the world, offering a rare opportunity to observe and photograph their calm, curious nature up close.

The Benefits

Expert photography and videography guidance from professional wildlife photographer Ross Long

Two separate boat trips giving us up to five hours in the water, guided by Wild Byron, a locally-owned operator that has been running for over ten years

Includes editing workshop when we arrive back from diving to go over my Lightroom workflow

Overview

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in the coastal paradise of Byron Bay, Australia.

This exclusive Leopard Shark & Manta Ray Photography Workshop offers a rare opportunity to explore Nguthungulli / Julian Rocks, one of the most biodiverse marine sanctuaries in the country. Every summer, leopard sharks and manta rays migrate south to these waters, creating one of the world’s largest leopard shark aggregations.

With only twelve guests, this experience is designed to be intimate, educational, and deeply connective. You’ll learn how to photograph and film these graceful creatures in their natural environment while gaining insight into their behaviour, ecology, and the fragile ecosystem they call home.

This isn’t just a group photography workshop, our second water session will include a 1:1 session to help get you to where you want your photography to be. Whether you’re a photographer seeking to elevate your craft or an ocean lover yearning for a meaningful encounter, this experience will leave you inspired, connected, and transformed.

We may arrive as strangers, but we’ll leave as family — bonded by the ocean and the moments we shared beneath its surface.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

A full day on the water

We will spend between 6-7 ours out at sea which will include up to five hour of snorkelling. This will allow you to have more time to improve your photography.

Editing workshop

After we have spent time on the water, we will grab out laptops and I will take you through how I go about editing my photos. You'll get to see my exact Lightroom and Social Media Process.

Lunch, Refreshments & Snorkel Hire

Included in the experience are refreshments, lunch, snorkel, fin and wetsuit hire. I also have a range of action cameras for people to use if you do not own your own.

Intimate Group

I limit the size of our workshops so that we can provide an intimate experience. This will result in better wildlife interactions and better photos. There will be five guests and myself on this experience.

Personalised photography education

As well as group education sessions, you will have time to work with me to focus on areas you would like to improve your photography. This includes underwater, portrait, landscapes, drone, lifestyle and adventure.

WHO IS THIS FOR?

This is an experience crafted for those who seek depth, connection, and adventure. Designed for anyone who feels drawn to the ocean, it invites you to slow down, observe, and reconnect with nature in a meaningful way. Whether you’re a complete beginner, a seasoned photographer, or simply someone who wants to experience the wonder of the underwater world, this journey offers something truly special for you. With 1:1 sessions, you'll be able to learn something new and improve your photography, videography and in water skills.

What Will you learn?

During this immersive experience, you'll learn expert techniques from Ross Long himself, an award winning wildlife photographer with a deep passion for marine life. From mastering composition and lighting to understanding leopard shark and manta ray behaviour, Ross will guide you every step of the way to ensure you capture the perfect shot.

 

What experience do you Need?

Whether you’re snorkelling or joining from a freediving background, this experience caters for all as no freedive experience is required. Similarly it does not matter where you are in your photography journey. You can be an absolute beginner or more advanced. I will be able to personalise the education so that we can get you to the next level in your photography.

Other animal encounters

We will not only encounter leopard sharks, we will also encounter a large array of other animals including:

Turtles

Manta Rays

Eagle Rays

Itinerary

This workshop will cover the whole day so you'll be able to get a strong overview of how I approach underwater photography: from preparation, to photographing, to editing.

  • 6am
  • 8am
  • 10:30am
  • 1pm
  • 2pm

6am - Arrival

We will meet at Brunswick Heads Boat Ramp. Here we will gather and I will start to take you through my preparation and set-up process. I will explain my camera and lens choice, the settings I use and how I approach marine life in order to come away with powerful photographs that don't come at the expense of disturbing marine life.

8am - Dive Time

We will make out way to Julian Rocks where we will do our first water session. We will explore as a small group and buddy pairs in order to locate and observe marine life. I will then demonstrate how I approach marine life and photograph. You will all have a choice to explore at your own will or be guided.

10:30am Rest and second water session

We will come back to the boat and rest for 30 minutes and enjoy some refreshments. I will do a Q&A session and help prepare you for our second water session. This second water session will focus on 1:1 sessions where I can work with you to help get you to the next level of your photography journey.

1pm - Wrap up our water session and head back to land for lunch

We will finish up in the water and come back to Brunswick Heads where we can get dry and enjoy some wraps and fruit for lunch.

2pm - Editing Workshop

The editing workshop will do a deep dive into my editing workflow. How I back-up my work, import and edit in Lightroom and export and upload my images to social media. We will run through all techniques in Lightroom including basic edits, masking and more.

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experience-style

LEARN FROM A PROFESSIONAL

Ross has spent years travelling across the world, capturing the the most extraordinary wildlife experiences, from swimming with humpbacks to photographing great white sharks, sea lions, and manta rays. His work with world-renowned tourism boards and nature-focused brands has given him rare access to some of the most remote and awe-inspiring locations on the planet. Through these adventures, Ross has developed a deep understanding of photographing large marine wildlife in dynamic, fast-changing environments. This knowledge he now shares openly with his guests. This workshop isn’t just about photography; it’s about learning from real-world experience, growing your confidence in the ocean, and walking away with images that truly move people.

Ross Long

A multi-award winning ocean, travel and lifestyle photographer and writer based in Byron Bay, Australia.  Ross is a tenacious visionary with big ideas and a passionate artist and conservationist who truly loves his work. His purpose is to evoke emotion and inspire people to set out on their own adventures.

 Frequently Asked Questions

What's included in the trip?

Double boat session to Nguthungulli / Julian Rocks (4–5 hours in the water)

Pre-dive tuition — 90-minute photography and videography session with Ross Long

Two guided snorkel sessions with professional supervision and in-water support

1:1 coaching with Ross Long during the second session

Group education sessions covering marine behaviour, photography techniques, and ethics

Editing workshop — learn post-production techniques and storytelling tips

Lunch and refreshments provided throughout the day

All snorkelling and safety equipment (mask, fins, snorkel, wetsuit)

Educational guidance from marine naturalists Ross Long & Glenn Saunders

Contribution to marine research — opportunity to photograph and identify manta rays and leopard sharks

Whats not included?

Transport to and from Brunswick Heads

How do I get there?

The Brunswick Heads Boat Ramp is located about 20 minutes north of Byron Bay and serves as our departure point for the Leopard Shark & Manta Ray Photography Workshop. It’s easily accessible by car and offers free parking nearby.

If you’re driving from Byron Bay, take the M1 Pacific Motorway north and exit at Brunswick Heads / Ocean Shores. Follow the signs into town, then turn right onto The Terrace, which runs alongside the Brunswick River. The boat ramp is located at the end near the Brunswick Heads Boat Harbour.

For those staying locally, rideshare services or carpooling with other participants are easy and convenient options. If you’re travelling from further away, the Gold Coast Airport (OOL) or Ballina Byron Gateway Airport is the nearest major airport, just 40 minutes’ drive north of Brunswick Heads and 30 minutes south of Brunswick Heads respectively.

Are meals included?

Yes, there will be refreshments on the boat as well as a lunch served when we come back from the water. Lunch will be a range of healthy wraps and fruit. You will be asked your dietary requirements.

Do I need to be an experienced diver?

No! You don’t need to be certified or a strong freediver to join our whale swims and ocean adventures. We offer guidance for all levels, whether you’re a seasoned freediver or a first-time snorkeller. You just need to be comfortable in the ocean and able to swim 200m unassisted.

What equipment do I need?

Snorkel gear is included as part of the experience, however if you have your own I recommend bringing it.

Wetsuit, wetsuit top and wetsuit socks
Mask & Fins
Weight belt (also available to hire)
Camera gear (anything from professional gear to action cameras)
Laptop

A comprehensive list of equipment will be sent to you when you receive the Welcome Guide.

Do you have snorkelling equipment and safety vests?

While we can help with gear, we strongly encourage you to bring your own snorkel, mask, fins and wetsuit that you have tested and are comfortable with!

Who is this workshop catered for?

This experience is catered for everyone. From absolute beginner snorkellers to advanced snorkellers and beginner photographers to advance photographers. The purpose of the group sessions is to learn and experience together. This is crafted for those seeking depth, connection, and adventure. It caters for all people that are seeking a deeper connection with nature.

Is it safe to swim with leopard sharks?

Yes. Absolutely. Leopard sharks are gentle, slow-moving, and non-aggressive creatures that pose no threat to humans. They are bottom-dwelling sharks that spend much of their time resting on the sandy seabed or gracefully cruising through shallow waters.

Do I have to be a photographer or videographer to join?

Absolutely not, everyone will still have a fantastic experience in the water with an array of marine life. For those interested, I will have a GoPro, Insta 360 and a Joby SeaPal for phones available for guests to use.

I don't have an underwater camera, can I borrow one?

I will have a GoPro, Insta 360, DJI Action 5 and a Joby SeaPal for phones available for guests to use.

What kind of fitness level is required?

A moderate level of fitness is expected. You’ll be getting in and out of boats, swimming, and spending time in the ocean. Being confident in the water makes the experience more enjoyable.

What happens if the conditions are bad?

A bad weather plan will be put in place which may require the workshop to be rearranged to another date. Please purchase travel insurance in case this happens and you need to rearrange. We must also have an appreciation that we cannot control the weather and we will always make the most of what we get.

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Julian Rocks Leopard Shark and Manta Ray Workshop

$495.00
$495.00
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The Experience

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey with ocean photographer Ross Long in the breathtaking coastal paradise of Byron Bay, Australia. My Leopard Shark & Manta Ray Photography Workshop invites you to explore Nguthungulli / Julian Rocks, one of Australia’s most extraordinary marine sanctuaries. 

Located just 2.5 kilometres off Byron Bay, Julian Rocks Marine Reserve sits where the warm tropical waters of the Coral Sea meet the cooler southern currents, creating one of the most biodiverse dive sites in the country. More than 500 marine species have been recorded here, from graceful manta rays and leopard sharks to turtles, rays, reef fish and even migrating humpback whales passing by in winter.

Every summer, leopard sharks and manta rays migrate south from the Great Barrier Reef to gather around the rocky bommies of Julian Rocks. This convergence of life is unlike anywhere else, mantas can be seen circling shallow cleaning stations, performing elegant underwater acrobatics, while leopard sharks rest peacefully on the sandy bottom below, their long tails weaving gently in the current. Nguthungulli is one of the world's largest aggregation sites for leopard sharks. 

Join me in the heart of this thriving ecosystem to photograph, learn, and connect deeply with the ocean. Nguthungulli is more than a dive site, it’s a reminder of how alive and interconnected our seas truly are and you get to be a part of it. 

Dates available: 20/12/2025

Duration: 9 hours (see itinerary below)

Departure Location: Brunswick Heads (20 minutes north of Byron Bay) 

Inclusive of double boat session to Nguthungulli (4-5 hours in the water), lunch, refreshments, group education sessions, 1:1 education session, editing workshop and equipment hire 

EARLY BIRD COST: AUD $595 (RRP $695)

Just 12 spots available 

Education in the field 

This hands-on workshop is designed to teach you how to interact, photograph, and film some of the ocean’s most captivating creatures: leopard sharks, manta rays, and sea turtles, all in their natural environment. You’ll also gain a deeper understanding of the incredible marine life we encounter through educational insights and in-water guidance.

We’ll begin the day early with a 90-minute photography and videography tuition session, where I’ll share essential techniques, camera settings, and ethical approaches to marine life interactions. From there, we’ll board the boat and head out to Nguthungulli / Julian Rocks, one of Australia’s most diverse and awe-inspiring marine reserves.

You’ll spend four to five hours in the water, split into two dedicated sessions. The first session focuses on mastering wide-angle compositions, achieving smooth underwater video footage, and refining your approach to natural-light photography. Afterward, we’ll regroup on the boat for refreshments and an open Q&A, giving you the chance to review your shots, discuss techniques, and prepare for the next dive.

During the second session, I’ll work closely with you one-on-one to help you advance your skills, build confidence in the water, and capture the kind of imagery that tells powerful ocean stories.

The Benefits

Expert photography guidance from professional wildlife photographer Ross Long - Obtain all of my creative knowledge that I've gained over the course of my career

Reef and wildlife guide - Ross has photographed Julian Rocks more than any other dive site - this is his local and he understands the tides, currents, reefs and conditions

Education and awareness from marine naturalists - learn all about our marine interactions from marine expert Ross Long and Glenn Saunders

Contribute to marine science - you have the opportunity to photograph and tag manta rays and leopard sharks. If you identify an unrecorded animal, you have the opportunity to name it. 

Access to prime photography locations with WildByron 

Intimate Group Size of twelve people - arrive as strangers, leave as family

What You'll Learn: You'll learn expert techniques from Ross Long himself, an award winning wildlife photographer with a deep passion for marine life. From mastering composition and lighting to understanding wildlife behaviour, Ross will guide you every step of the way to ensure you capture images you've always dreamt of capturing. 

Why This Experience is Unique: Unlike traditional photography workshops, our photography-focused excursions are designed specifically for aspiring photographers who want to hone their skills while experiencing the beauty of nature up close. We will be onboard with Wild Byron who have been running snorkelling tours for over ten years. Skipper Glen is unmatched when it comes to safety and experience. 

Why Ross Long is the Best Person to Teach: Ross Long is an award winning wildlife photographer. in 2023 & 2024 he was a winner and finalist in numerous photography competition including the Sony Alpha Awards and the Ocean Photographer of the Year. Ross is a self taught photographer who believes that the art of photography is best learnt by being in the field. Ross Long is renowned for his ability to capture stunning images that evoke emotion and inspire change. His passion for conservation and dedication to educating others make him the perfect mentor for aspiring photographers looking to make a meaningful impact through their art.

The Schedule: 
6:00am - Meet at Brunswick Heads for pre-dive education session where we will run through photography techniques, dive etiquette and marine interactions. 
7:00am - Gear-up and prepare to head out to Nguthungulli Julian Rocks 
7:15am - Depart to Nguthungulli Julian Rocks where we will do our first water session  snorkel and photograph in the water 
10:30am - Return to the boat for refreshments and a Q&A session 
11:00am - Jump back into the water where I will commence 1:1 sessions
1:30pm - Arrive back at Brunswick Heads & Lunch 
2:00pm - Editing Workshop 
3:30pm - Session Close

Cost 

Workshop cost is AUD $595

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Don't miss your chance to join Ross Long on this extraordinary journey of discovery and creativity. Book your spot on my Leopard Shark & Manta Ray Photography Workshop and let the beauty of Nguthungulli Julian Rocks inspire your photography like never before. Limited to 12 guests. 

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Testimonials

Ross is an absolute legend! His knowledge of underwater photography and marine life is incredible, and he’s so generous with his expertise and time. He catered to every level in the group and brought amazing energy and positivity, making the trip really welcoming.

Thanks to Ross’s guidance and local knowledge we saw so much. A highlight was our treat of mantas surface-feeding through the coral on a day with unreal visibility. My Lady Elliot Island experience was unforgettable thanks to him. Highly recommend!

Jenae Turner

Auckland, NZ

Ross went over and above to ensure all attendees expectations were met. If you want to learn more about nature and wildlife as well as photography, Lady Elliot Island and Ross are a perfect match.

Anita Blaker

Brisbane, AUS

I recently joined Ross Long’s photography retreat to Lady Elliot Island, and it was truly a life-changing experience. As someone who has always been afraid of the ocean, I arrived feeling nervous and even a little petrified. From the very beginning, Ross was warm, welcoming, and reassuring, which made all the difference.

Throughout the week, I not only learned so much about photography and editing but also had the chance to experience the magic of the ocean in a way I never thought possible. Swimming alongside turtles, manta rays, and so many other incredible sea creatures was both humbling and exhilarating.

By the end of the retreat, my fear had shifted to gratitude — I even found myself needing to have one last swim to say goodbye to the turtles. This retreat wasn’t just about photography; it was about connection, courage, and seeing the world through a new lens.

Thank you, Ross, for creating such a supportive and unforgettable experience.

Sarah Matley

Sydney, AUS

Best experience of my life! 🦈 So incredibly lucky to learn from the most talented photographer Ross! He is so cool & kind. He goes above and beyond! Thank-you!

Alyssa Jade

Melbourne, Aus

12/10 recommend this workshop! Ross is awesome at everything he does & Lady Elliot Island is the ultimate paradise. One of my all time favourite experiences, I can’t wait to go back one day🪼🩵

Chailyn Mcfarlane

Gold Coast, AUS

Lady Elliot Underwater Photography workshop was one of the most amazing weeks of my life! Ross is fantastic and his passion for the underwater world was contagious. I really could feel my skills in photography improve over the week and Ross was there to help all the way. Thank you Ross!

Johanna Renwick

Jervis Bay, AUS

Ross made the experience really beautiful. His knowledge is on another level. He really helped get my photography to where I want it to be. I got the best photo of a turtle and I can't get over it. Everyone was so much fun and I loved sharing all these experiences with people. Thanks Ross!

Ana Kritzler

Monterrey, Mexico

An experience I will never forget. It really changed my life. Seeing my first ever turtle hatchlings on Heron was one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen!

Sarah Jayne

Sydney, AUS

Ross is an absolute legend! His knowledge of underwater photography and marine life is incredible, and he’s so generous with his expertise and time. He catered to every level in the group and brought amazing energy and positivity, making the trip really welcoming.

Thanks to Ross’s guidance and local knowledge we saw so much. A highlight was our treat of mantas surface-feeding through the coral on a day with unreal visibility. My Lady Elliot Island experience was unforgettable thanks to him. Highly recommend!

Jenae Turner

Auckland, NZ

Ross went over and above to ensure all attendees expectations were met. If you want to learn more about nature and wildlife as well as photography, Lady Elliot Island and Ross are a perfect match.

Anita Blaker

Brisbane, AUS

I recently joined Ross Long’s photography retreat to Lady Elliot Island, and it was truly a life-changing experience. As someone who has always been afraid of the ocean, I arrived feeling nervous and even a little petrified. From the very beginning, Ross was warm, welcoming, and reassuring, which made all the difference.

Throughout the week, I not only learned so much about photography and editing but also had the chance to experience the magic of the ocean in a way I never thought possible. Swimming alongside turtles, manta rays, and so many other incredible sea creatures was both humbling and exhilarating.

By the end of the retreat, my fear had shifted to gratitude — I even found myself needing to have one last swim to say goodbye to the turtles. This retreat wasn’t just about photography; it was about connection, courage, and seeing the world through a new lens.

Thank you, Ross, for creating such a supportive and unforgettable experience.

Sarah Matley

Sydney, AUS

Best experience of my life! 🦈 So incredibly lucky to learn from the most talented photographer Ross! He is so cool & kind. He goes above and beyond! Thank-you!

Alyssa Jade

Melbourne, Aus

12/10 recommend this workshop! Ross is awesome at everything he does & Lady Elliot Island is the ultimate paradise. One of my all time favourite experiences, I can’t wait to go back one day🪼🩵

Chailyn Mcfarlane

Gold Coast, AUS

Lady Elliot Underwater Photography workshop was one of the most amazing weeks of my life! Ross is fantastic and his passion for the underwater world was contagious. I really could feel my skills in photography improve over the week and Ross was there to help all the way. Thank you Ross!

Johanna Renwick

Jervis Bay, AUS

Ross made the experience really beautiful. His knowledge is on another level. He really helped get my photography to where I want it to be. I got the best photo of a turtle and I can't get over it. Everyone was so much fun and I loved sharing all these experiences with people. Thanks Ross!

Ana Kritzler

Monterrey, Mexico

An experience I will never forget. It really changed my life. Seeing my first ever turtle hatchlings on Heron was one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen!

Sarah Jayne

Sydney, AUS

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