Exmouth & Coral Bay | Ningaloo Reef
10th-16th September 2027
6 nights / 7 days
Photography, Videography, Editing, & Marine Education
Inclusive of 2 x whale shark & humpback whale boats, 3 x manta ray boats, 6 nights accommodation
Starting from AUD $5,995
AUD $1,000 deposit to secure space
Learn directly from professional wildlife photographer Ross Long, with personalised guidance in underwater photography, videography and storytelling. Enjoy education before, during and after the retreat to develop your skills and creative confidence.
Experience five full days on private charters reserved exclusively for our 10 guests, with a dedicated spotter aircraft on every tour. Search for Ningaloo's Big Three: whale sharks, manta rays and migrating humpback whales.
Discover one of the world's most extraordinary marine ecosystems alongside experienced local guides. Learn about the fascinating behaviours of the animals we encounter and the importance of protecting our oceans through ethical wildlife experiences.
Explore the incredible biodiversity of Ningaloo Reef, with opportunities to encounter turtles, dugongs, tiger sharks, ornate eagle rays, sea snakes and more. Every day brings the possibility of something completely unexpected.
With just 10 guests, enjoy an intimate experience surrounded by like-minded ocean lovers and adventurers. Share unforgettable wildlife encounters, create meaningful friendships and arrive as strangers, leave as friends.
Enjoy six nights of accommodation, daily breakfast, five lunches, a farewell meal and transport between Exmouth and Coral Bay. With the logistics organised, you can focus on learning, exploring and enjoying every moment.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with me to Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia, one of the world's most extraordinary marine destinations. Together, we'll spend seven full days on exclusive private ocean charters exploring Exmouth and Coral Bay, searching for the ocean's Big Three: whale sharks, manta rays and migrating humpback whales, alongside an incredible diversity of marine life.
But this is so much more than an underwater photography workshop. I've created a seven-day experience that brings together wildlife, adventure, photography, education and meaningful human connection. With just ten guests, our own private charters and a dedicated spotter aircraft supporting every expedition, we'll have incredible opportunities to explore one of the world's most remarkable marine ecosystems.
Whether you're an aspiring photographer dreaming of capturing extraordinary wildlife images or simply someone seeking a deeper connection with nature, this experience is for you. I'll share my knowledge of photography, videography and visual storytelling, helping you develop your confidence and creativity through hands-on guidance, alongside eight weeks of education before and after our time on the reef.
Above all, I want this retreat to be about more than the photographs we take. It's about being present, sharing unforgettable wildlife encounters, discovering the beauty of Ningaloo and forming lasting friendships with people who share our curiosity for the natural world.
This is what you can expect from my Ningaloo Reef Workshop
Spend two full days aboard our exclusive private charter with Live Ningaloo, searching for the world's largest fish with the possibility of swimming with humpback whales, oceanic manta rays, reef manta rays and more.
Explore Coral Bay on three private charter days with Ningaloo Marine Interactions, timed around the full moon for exciting wildlife encounters. Expect dancing manta rays.
Experience Ningaloo during the humpback whale migration, with opportunities to witness spectacular breaches, tail slaps and mothers with calves.
Develop your photography, videography and storytelling skills with personalised guidance and eight weeks of education before and after the retreat.
Relax in comfortable accommodation across Exmouth and Coral Bay, with your choice of a private king room or your own single bed in a shared room. A budget to suit each traveller.
Ross will provide you with a curated gallery of the expedition which will contain photos of you in the water, with animals as well as other animal encounters we experience
Enjoy organised transfers between Exmouth and Coral Bay, plus group transport around Exmouth, making it easy to explore this spectacular coastline. Less for you to think and worry about.
Where to start?! I've just had the most incredible week with Ross & our group and I feel so grateful for the whole experience!
Ross has been a great host, sorting everything from logistics to daily snacks (boat trip essentials!!)
He brings a calm & knowledgeable presence to the trip, and also involves himself within the group, to the point where he now feels like a friend.
I loved that all the activities were centered around the wellbeing of the wildlife & nature and not just for transactional purposes. I believe that really showed & payed off for our experiences too!
Both Ross & Wildma's expertise allowed us to get some once in a lifetime experiences and it's because they put their hearts into what they do and don't follow the crowds.
I'd 100% recommend joining one of Ross' workshops, you're in for s good time with plenty of laughs and meeting a bunch of chill people along the way
Brisbane, QLD
I recently experienced my first workshop with Ross and it was beyond my expectations. I’ll be honest I was nervous about being with strangers 24/7 for a week but honestly, the way Ross set up the workshop made it so comfortable for everyone. Ross has a great way of bringing everyone together.
The workshop was go, go, go but I loved every minute and it was so good to make the most of our time in beautiful Mo’orea. The respect Ross has for the wildlife, the landscapes and people is what makes these workshops truly special. I could not recommend one of these workshops enough. Really looking forward to my next workshop!
Sheffield, UK
Taking Ross Long’s underwater photography workshop was truly one of the best experiences I have ever completed. Ross has a rare combination of skill, genuine passion, and the ability to teach in a way that feels both approachable and exciting. From the moment the workshop began, he created an atmosphere that was professional, supportive, and incredibly fun.
Ross doesn’t just teach you how to take beautiful underwater images — he helps you understand why certain techniques work and how to think about light and movement below the surface. His guidance in the water was calm, clear, and confidence-boosting.
I came away with not only a portfolio of images I’m genuinely proud of, but also a deeper appreciation for the craft and a whole new set of skills I can’t wait to keep building on. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting your underwater journey, Ross’s workshop is an unforgettable experience that will elevate your work and leave you feeling inspired.
I couldn’t recommend this workshop more highly. If you’re considering it — do it. You’ll come away a better photographer and with memories that stay with you long after you’ve dried off.
Sunshine Coast, 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!
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.
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.
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!
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🪼🩵
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!
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!
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!
Sydney, AUS
Where to start?! I've just had the most incredible week with Ross & our group and I feel so grateful for the whole experience!
Ross has been a great host, sorting everything from logistics to daily snacks (boat trip essentials!!)
He brings a calm & knowledgeable presence to the trip, and also involves himself within the group, to the point where he now feels like a friend.
I loved that all the activities were centered around the wellbeing of the wildlife & nature and not just for transactional purposes. I believe that really showed & payed off for our experiences too!
Both Ross & Wildma's expertise allowed us to get some once in a lifetime experiences and it's because they put their hearts into what they do and don't follow the crowds.
I'd 100% recommend joining one of Ross' workshops, you're in for s good time with plenty of laughs and meeting a bunch of chill people along the way
Brisbane, QLD
I recently experienced my first workshop with Ross and it was beyond my expectations. I’ll be honest I was nervous about being with strangers 24/7 for a week but honestly, the way Ross set up the workshop made it so comfortable for everyone. Ross has a great way of bringing everyone together.
The workshop was go, go, go but I loved every minute and it was so good to make the most of our time in beautiful Mo’orea. The respect Ross has for the wildlife, the landscapes and people is what makes these workshops truly special. I could not recommend one of these workshops enough. Really looking forward to my next workshop!
Sheffield, UK
Taking Ross Long’s underwater photography workshop was truly one of the best experiences I have ever completed. Ross has a rare combination of skill, genuine passion, and the ability to teach in a way that feels both approachable and exciting. From the moment the workshop began, he created an atmosphere that was professional, supportive, and incredibly fun.
Ross doesn’t just teach you how to take beautiful underwater images — he helps you understand why certain techniques work and how to think about light and movement below the surface. His guidance in the water was calm, clear, and confidence-boosting.
I came away with not only a portfolio of images I’m genuinely proud of, but also a deeper appreciation for the craft and a whole new set of skills I can’t wait to keep building on. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting your underwater journey, Ross’s workshop is an unforgettable experience that will elevate your work and leave you feeling inspired.
I couldn’t recommend this workshop more highly. If you’re considering it — do it. You’ll come away a better photographer and with memories that stay with you long after you’ve dried off.
Sunshine Coast, 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!
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.
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.
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!
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🪼🩵
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!
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!
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!
Sydney, AUS
This isn't just a photography tour. It's an immersive ocean retreat designed for those seeking adventure, connection and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Whether you're an aspiring photographer, an experienced creative or simply someone who loves the ocean, this experience offers the opportunity to explore the extraordinary marine life of Ningaloo Reef in a meaningful way. From swimming alongside gentle giants to sharing incredible moments with like-minded people, it's about more than the photographs we capture. It's about connecting with nature, with others and with ourselves.
Throughout this experience, I'll share the knowledge and techniques I've developed as an award-winning wildlife photographer, helping you build confidence behind the camera and create images that tell meaningful stories. From mastering underwater composition, lighting and camera settings to understanding marine wildlife behaviour and anticipating those extraordinary moments, I'll guide you in capturing photographs that go beyond simply looking beautiful. With five full days exploring Ningaloo Reef, we'll have incredible opportunities to photograph whale sharks, manta rays, migrating humpback whales and an extraordinary diversity of marine life. Beyond the ocean, the dramatic landscapes of Exmouth and turquoise waters of Coral Bay provide the perfect creative playground to develop your skills in underwater, wildlife, landscape, drone and lifestyle photography, while discovering your own unique approach to visual storytelling.
Whether you're relatively new to snorkelling or have years of experience in the ocean, this retreat is designed to support different abilities, with no freediving qualifications required. I'll be there to help you improve your snorkelling technique, from breathing and body positioning to moving efficiently through the water, so you can feel more confident and relaxed during encounters with whale sharks, manta rays and other marine life. You'll need to be a confident swimmer and comfortable snorkelling in open-ocean conditions, but we'll work together to refine your skills and make the most of every encounter.
The same applies to photography. Whether you're picking up an underwater camera for the first time or you're an experienced photographer looking to refine your craft, I'll tailor my guidance to your individual abilities and goals. With five full days on Ningaloo Reef, you'll have incredible opportunities to develop your confidence, improve your technique and take your photography, videography and wildlife storytelling to the next level.
From the Big Three of whale sharks, manta rays and migrating humpback whales to green turtles, hawksbill turtles, loggerhead turtles, tiger sharks, reef sharks, dolphins, dugongs, ornate eagle rays, oceanic manta rays, sea snakes and even the elusive sunfish. Every day on the reef brings the possibility of unexpected wildlife encounters, making Ningaloo one of the most exciting marine destinations in the world.
I have created an itinerary so you don't need to worry about a thing.
Fly into paradise and feel the energy shift as you land on Lady Elliot Island. After an island orientation, check-in and a light lunch, we’ll kick off with a welcome session introducing the island’s vibrant ecosystem, our photography goals, and essential gear prep. We will then head out on to the water by boat so everyone can get comfortable in the water and get a feel for the underwater world. As golden hour approaches, we’ll head onto the beaches and look for turtle hatchlings.
Start the day snorkeling over vibrant coral gardens at sunrise, learning how to compose striking wide-angle reefscapes and harness ambient light. In the afternoon, dive or snorkel with turtles and rays as we refine techniques for capturing scale, depth, and the vibrant life of the reef. Expect close encounters and big ocean energy. In the evening we will search for more hatchlings. Then it's time for some island bingo with dinner.
This morning is all about turtles. We’ll photograph green and loggerhead turtles gliding through coral and surfacing for air, the perfect subjects to master manual camera settings. Back on land, we’ll cover white balance, RAW shooting, and colour correction, followed by an optional evening snorkel for those wanting to capture hatchlings in the water.
We’ll head to the cleaning stations where manta rays often swoop in like ocean angels. Capture motion, contrast, and dynamic frames as these gentle giants glide effortlessly past. We'll explore slow shutter techniques and subject tracking, then regroup in the afternoon for editing insights and visual storytelling tips. There will then be big focus on creating videos on the island with the turtle hatchlings.
Today’s focus is on telling stories through sequences. Capturing emotion, behaviour, and patterns in the reef. We will start to put together all of our photos and videos and look to fill in the gaps of what we are hoping to capture. You’ll snorkel or dive through bommies, sandy lagoons, and fish-filled channels, honing your creative vision. The afternoon is yours: shoot more, relax, or review your favourite images in a casual feedback session. We'll enjoy our final sunset on the island with casual drinks.
Greet the final morning with a sunrise snorkel in the lagoon to enjoy some of the best colours on the great barrier reef. Or for you manta lovers, head to Lighthouse bommie for one last dance with mantas. We’ll gather for a final wrap-up session, reviewing your progress, celebrating your best shots, and sharing resources to continue your underwater journey. Depart inspired, with salty hair and a memory card full of magic.
Everything you need to enjoy the photography retreat is included, however, there are additional items that can be purchased:
Soft drinks & Alcohol
$85 per dive (Certified divers only)
$44 scuba equipment hire per day
$29 additional Glass Bottom Boat tour
$37 Snorkel Discovery Tour – Group Rate
$220 DSD (Discover Scuba) – additional follow up dives $150 per dive
$20 wetsuit hire (long) per day
$14 wetsuit hire (short) per day
$15 weight belt per day (cert divers only)
This is not necessary as part of the photography retreat however if you are interested in the above then you can make these purchases on the island.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner is included. Filtered water, tea and a coffee station is available all day. soft drinks and alcohol is an additional expense.
Each accommodation type is available either as shared or exclusive. The cost of having a room exclusively will be higher.
Eco Cabins (sleeps upto 3)
Situated within 20 to 30 meters walk from the Lagoon, LEI recently upgraded Eco Cabins have solid walls, louvres for maximum air flow and a large front glass sliding door. The Eco Cabins sleep up to 3 adults. Lighting and power points are available in every cabin as well as a ceiling fan. The deck is furnished with two chairs for added relaxation. Guests enjoy a shared or private room with access to shared bathroom facilities, including showers and toilets, conveniently located nearby.
Garden Units (sleeps upto 3)
Situated within 20 to 30 meters walk from the Lagoon, the Garden Units are arranged in blocks of three, offering either a queen bed or a combination of a queen and bunk-style beds. Each unit features polished timber floors, ensuite bathrooms and a balcony set amongst the resort gardens to make the most of the resort views. The units are fan cooled and have a mini fridge and tea and coffee making facilities.
Reef Units (sleeps upto 3)
Located approximately 10 meters from the beautiful coral cay Lagoon, the Reef Units are the closest resort rooms to the Beachfront Dining Room. Arranged in blocks of three, offering either a queen bed or a combination of a queen and bunk-style beds. Each unit features polished timber floors, ensuite bathrooms and a balcony to make the most of the island surrounds. The units are fan cooled and have a mini fridge and tea and coffee making facilities.
For more information, visit the LEI website:
https://ladyelliot.com.au/accommodation/https://ladyelliot.com.au/accommodation/https://ladyelliot.com.au/accommodation/
Included in the cost of the trip are flights from either Hervey Bay or Bundaberg. This takes roughly 45 minutes. However you can upgrade to fly from Gold Coast (2 hours duration) or Red Cliff Brisbane (1:45 duration for an additional $445.50.
For parking please check the airport websites for parking fees.
The thing everyone has in common is their love for nature. Guests come from all over the world and bring with them a range of experience. The age range of guests ranges from 20 - 60 with the majority of guests being between 22-35. There are more females than males (8:2 ratio on average). The one thing everyone loves about my expeditions is that the group is kept small and it is very intimate. We share lots of experiences together, not only in the water, but we play games, eat together, watch sunsets together and more.
This experience caters to everyone. If you prefer to do sessions in the shallow reef and lagoon and sit out of the deeper dives from shore, then that is fine. There will be two boat trips where you will get the chance to go deeper whilst being closely watched and supported by staff.
Snorkel gear is included as part of the experience, however if you have your own I recommend bringing it. Wetsuits are also available to hire at an additional cost. Again, I recommend bringing your own.
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 book. Please note that you are limited to 25kg weight when flying to the island.
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. There will be 1:1 sessions as part of the group session and individual 1:1 sessions throughout the trip.
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 will have a GoPro, Insta 360 and a Joby SeaPal for phones available for guests to use.
Travel insurance is essential and your policy will be requested before the trip commences.
The water temperature in February can be up to 30 degrees and average visibility is 20 meters. Although it is warm, we will be doing long sessions in the water and getting in at sunrise and getting out after sunset, therefore it is important to ensure that you have a good wetsuit to keep you warm over this duration.
There are very rare sightings of stingers on the Southern Great Barrier Reef
No, a weight belt is a tool that can be used by more experienced snorkellers to get deeper. If you have not worn a weight belt and do not have your freedive certification then they cannot be worn.
