La Ventana, Baja California Sur Mobulas & Cetaceans Photography Workshop
11th – 17th May 2026
6 nights / 7 days
La Ventana, Baja California Sur
Photography, Videography, Editing & Marine Life Education
Inclusive of accommodation, transfers, all meals, and 5 full ocean safari days
Two accommodation options available
Starting from AUD $6,795
AUD $1,000 deposit to secure your place
The Experience
Join me in Baja, Mexico for a small group photography and videography workshop during one of the most powerful times of year in the Sea of Cortez.
May marks peak season for mobula ray fevers, when thousands of rays move through the open ocean in vast, flowing formations just beneath the surface. This time of year also brings opportunities to encounter a range of cetaceans as they travel through these nutrient rich waters. Cetaceans are all whales, dolphins, and porpoises. In Baja, that essentially means large whales and oceanic dolphins moving through or feeding in the Sea of Cortez. We may be lucky enough to encounter dolphins including common, bottlenose, and spotted dolphins. Larger whales are also possible, including blue whales and fin whales. Orcas also move through the region following food sources.
Each day is guided by conditions, wildlife, and intuition rather than a fixed route. There is no chasing moments here. We move slowly, observe patiently, and allow the ocean to lead.
This isn’t just an expedition, it’s a full workshop, crafted for those seeking depth, connection, and adventure. It caters for all people that are seeking a deeper connection with nature. This means that if you are a photographer, it presents you with the opportunity to capture photos like you've only ever dreamt of and you'll have access to my knowledge and experience to help guide you in improving your camera and storytelling techniques.
'With just eight guests, this retreat offers an intimate experience where connections run deep. We may arrive as strangers, but we’ll leave as friends, bonded by unforgettable moments in the wild'.
What You’ll Be Photographing
- Mobula ray fevers in the thousands
- Mobula rays jumping out of the ocean
-
Dolphins including bottlenose, common, spinner and spotted
- Baleen whales including humpbacks, fin whales and blue whales
- Orcas, the ocean's Apex predators
- Californian Sea Lions
- Whale Sharks
-
Pelagic fish species including tuna and baitfish schools
- Sea turtles including the Olive Ridley and Green turtles
- Other possible encounters include manta rays, sperm whales & silky sharks
Wildlife encounters are always respectful, ethical, and guided by experienced captains and marine biologists. Animals are never chased or disturbed. Entering the water only occurs when wildlife chooses to interact.
Education & Learning
Throughout the week, education is woven naturally into the experience.
You’ll learn how to:
- Photograph and film marine life ethically
- Read ocean conditions and animal behaviour
- Shoot confidently in open water environments
- Capture both photo and video underwater
- Edit images in Lightroom and video in Premiere Pro
- Curate content for social media and storytelling
- Create strong visual narratives from real moments
Each day, we’ll dive into practical lessons on camera settings, composition, and how to anticipate and capture wildlife moments with precision and emotion. You’ll also receive hands-on guidance in editing, from creating natural, vibrant tones in Lightroom to developing a consistent visual style that reflects your personal brand. We’ll explore how to curate your images for social media, grow an engaged audience, and share meaningful stories that connect people to the ocean. Whether you're looking to refine your skills or build your presence as a photographer, these sessions are designed to be inspiring, supportive, and packed with value.
No prior photography or snorkelling experience is required. Confident swimmers are welcome at all levels, with in water guidance and support provided.
Snorkelling & Freediving
Whether you’re snorkelling or have a freediving background, this experience is suitable for all levels, with no freediving experience required. Encounters take place close to the surface, so you simply need to be a confident swimmer, comfortable treading water and able to swim at least 100 metres in open ocean conditions.
Who This Workshop Is For
This experience is designed for:
• Ocean lovers and adventurers
• Wildlife and nature photographers
• Photographers, Videographers and creators wanting to improve storytelling skills
• People craving a deeper connection with the ocean
• Anyone wanting to learn in the field, not just from a screen
What's Included:
-
6 nights accommodation in La Ventana
- Full days of guided open ocean safaris
- All meals including breakfast, packed lunches, and dinner
- Round trip transfers between La Paz and La Ventana
- Daily guidance from experienced captains and marine biologists
- Photography and videography education sessions
- In water coaching and support
- Editing workshops and workflow breakdowns
- Snorkelling equipment and marine park permits
- Professional photo and video coverage of the experience
- Workshop T shirt
Accommodation Options
Two accommodation options are available to suit different budgets and preferences:
• Shared accommodation
• Private luxury accommodation
Both options include comfortable stays, locally prepared meals, and a relaxed base to unwind between ocean days.
Investment
Standard Experience: AUD $6,795
Luxury Experience: AUD $8,895
Deposit: AUD $1,000 to secure your place
Deposit is non refundable
Payment plans available on request
What's not Included:
- Flights to La Paz, Mexico
- Additional Activities outside of the workshop
Spaces are extremely limited to keep the group small and personal.
Before the Workshop
Ahead of our adventure, you'll receive an exclusive 1:1 online photography session with me. This is a chance for us to deep dive into your current skill level, goals, and creative vision. Together, we’ll create a personalised plan to ensure you get the absolute most out of your time in Baja and leave feeling more confident in your craft.
Arrival and Itinerary
We'll all meet in La Paz prior to the 23rd of October, ready to kick off our journey. On the morning of the 23rd, we’ll travel together by private coach to Cape Jervis, where we’ll board the ferry to Penneshaw, Kangaroo Island. Once we arrive, we’ll check into our accommodation, settle in, and get ready for an unforgettable week ahead.
Our days will be filled with a carefully curated mix of incredible wildlife encounters and scenic landscapeson our ocean safaris.
You'll receive a full, detailed itinerary upon booking, but rest assured each day balances exploration, learning, and creative inspiration.
After the Workshop
To continue supporting your growth and creativity, you'll also be invited to three online follow-up sessions, designed to take your newly captured content to the next level:
- Photo & Video Editing Masterclass – Learn how to bring your images and footage to life.
- Social Media Workshop – Tips and strategies to share your work and grow your audience.
- Show & Tell – A relaxed group session to share your favourite captures and receive feedback.
Why travel and explore with Ross Long?
Ross Long is an award winning wildlife photographer. In 2023 and 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.
