The Experience
Heron Island - Turtle Mating & Nesting Season
Each November, the sands of Heron Island come alive as female green turtles make their way ashore to nest, while in the shallow waters, turtles engage in graceful mating behaviours — a rare and awe-inspiring spectacle.
I’ll be leading an exclusive workshop for a small group of eight, giving you a unique opportunity to photograph these incredible moments both on land and underwater. Designed for those seeking a deeper connection with nature, this intimate experience offers personalised guidance, hands-on instruction, and the chance to witness and capture one of the ocean’s most extraordinary events.
8th-14th November 2025
6 nights / 7 days
Photography, Videography, Editing, & Marine Education
Inclusive of the ferry from Gladstone, island accommodation and ocean activities
Shared accommodation - AUD $2,549
Private accommodation - AUD $3,195
(AUD $1,000 deposit to secure space)
Book now at the end of this page.
Education in the field
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey with renowned wildlife photographer Ross Long in the natural wonder of the world, the Great Barrier Reef. My exclusive photography retreat offers you the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of turtles mating and making their journey from the sea to land to lay their nests. I will take you to some of my favourite underwater sites on the island, including the turtle cleaning station where there may be up to 20 turtles at one time. With average visibility of 20m and sleeping only meters from the reef, there is no place better to advance your camera skills. This unique experience will teach you how to interact, photograph and film wildlife as well as educate you about the species we encounter.
Who is This For?
This workshop is designed for aspiring and experienced photographers who are passionate about honing their skills in a small, intimate setting. It’s perfect for those who value personalised guidance and wish to deepen their connection with nature while respecting its delicate balance. With a maximum of eight participants, this experience ensures minimal environmental impact, particularly in preserving the fragile journey of turtle hatchlings. Whether you’re looking to improve your technical abilities or capture meaningful, nature-inspired stories, this workshop offers the perfect blend of education, creativity, and environmental mindfulness.
The split of the workshop will be between on land photographing and underwater. Each morning will be spent photographing on land when the turtles emerge to nest on the island and the remainder of the day will be split between underwater sessions and tuition.
This is the perfect opportunity to get your first experience of photographing underwater if you haven't yet. I will have action cameras that you can use if you do not yet have your own for a small hire fee.
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 - I has photographed Heron Island across three turtle mating/nesting seasons and have the knowledge and experience to locate them and photograph them in the best possible way. I also understand the tides, currents, reefs and conditions to get the most of our underwater experience.
Education and awareness from on-site marine biologists - learn all about our marine interactions
Access to prime photography locations at sunrise and sunset
Intimate Group Size of eight people - arrive as strangers, leave as family
Ferry(from Gladstone), accommodation, reef management charge and all ocean activities are included.
What You'll 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 wildlife behaviour, Ross will guide you every step of the way to ensure you capture the perfect shot.
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. It is all about learning in the field and not in a classroom. You will learn by practising and having me there to help guide you as you photograph.
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:
A detailed day-to-day itinerary will be created for you and sent prior to the start of the workshop. This isn’t a generic schedule — it’s carefully crafted based on your responses to a short questionnaire I’ll send, ensuring the itinerary reflects your personal interests, skill level, and photography goals. Every activity, from snorkelling trips to land-based shoots and island experiences, will be tailored to help you get the most out of your time on Heron Island. This way, you’ll know exactly what to expect each day while still leaving room for spontaneous wildlife encounters and creative opportunities.
Cost & Accommodation Type
The workshop cost will vary based on the accommodation type that you choose. There are two types of accommodation: shared or private.
Reef Family Room (up to four guests, single beds) - AUD $2,549 Total cost
Turtle Room (sole use, queen bed) - AUD $3,195
All accommodation is situated close to the beach. You will be footsteps from turtle nests, the beach and ocean.
For more information on the accommodation type, please refer to Heron Island's website here
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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 Heron Island Turtle Hatchling Photography Workshop today and let the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef inspire your photography like never before. limited to eight guests.
