The Experience
Lady Elliot Island Expedition
TURTLE HATCHLING SEASON
20th-25th February 2026
5 nights / 6 days
Inclusive of flights from Hervey Bay/Bundaberg, island accommodation,
breakfast, lunch, dinner and ocean activities
Starting from AUD $3,295
AUD $1,000 deposit to secure space
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. This exclusive turtle hatchling expedition gives you the chance to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of manta rays, turtles, sharks, dolphins, coral reef and tropical fish species in the crystal clear waters of this island paradise. With average visibility of 20m and sleeping only meters from the reef, there is no place better to connect with yourself, nature and other ocean lovers all whilst advancing your camera skills. This unique experience will teach you how to interact respectfully, photograph and film wildlife underwater to craft compelling and unique stories, as well as educate you about the marine species we encounter and how to edit the photos and videos you've captured.
Ross has visited Lady Elliot Island for over half a decade, exploring every corner of the island and working closely with marine biologists, ocean guides and operators to put together the best possible experience. What Ross has created is unique, it is not publicly available anywhere else. This truly is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
The Benefits
Expert photography guidance from professional wildlife photographer Ross Long — gain creative knowledge built over years of experience
Reef and wildlife guide - Ross has photographed Lady Elliot Island more than any other destination - he understands the tides, currents, reefs and conditions better than most and shares a strong relationship with the island that helps with planning daily activities based around ocean conditions
Education and awareness from on-site marine biologists - learn interesting facts about the marine life we encounter and how we can best preserve and protect it
Contribute to marine science - you have the opportunity to photograph and tag manta rays, turtles, leopard sharks and ornate eagle rays. If you identify an unrecorded animal, you have the opportunity to name it.
Access to prime photography locations at sunrise and sunset
Intimate Group Size of 10 guests - arrive as strangers, leave as family
Breakfast, lunch, dinner, accommodation and flights (from Bundaberg/Hervey Bay) included
The only photography workshop that is advertised and recommended by Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort
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 your perfect shot all whilst ensuring you interact with wildlife in a safe, respectful and ethical manner.
Why This Experience is Unique
This expedition is about more than photography. It’s a chance to slow down, connect deeply with nature, and share extraordinary encounters with like-minded ocean and wildlife lovers. The images you create will be special, but it’s the memories, the connections, and the sense of wonder that will stay with you long after the trip ends.
For those that are aspiring photographers who want to hone their skills while experiencing the beauty of nature up close, this experience will get you closer to wildlife than your usual trips, providing you with a better chance to capture the moment. It is all about learning in the field and not in a classroom, giving you more opportunity to encounter and photograph different species of marine life. 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 not just about photography. He is about experience. He focuses on the well-being of his guests and the marine life we encounter.
His values are rooted in connection, conservation, and creating meaningful experiences. He wants this expedition to feel intimate and personal — not just a trip, but a journey we share together. You won’t just see him as your host, but as a friend who’s there to support you, inspire you, and celebrate every moment along the way. From swimming alongside manta rays to laughing over meals, Ross is here to make sure this adventure leaves you with memories and connections that last long after we leave the island.
Ross is an award winning wildlife photographer. In 2023, 2024 & 2025 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
Upon booking this experience, you will receive a confirmation and welcome email containing a comprehensive Welcome Guide. This includes a timeline with key preparation steps: packing lists, itinerary, flight confirmations, medical forms, and an invitation to an initial expedition meeting to get us organised.
We’ll meet on Lady Elliot Island for induction and check-in, then spend time exploring the island and getting familiar with the itinerary. Next, it’s time for our first in-water lesson. After encounters with turtles, dolphins, manta rays and other species, we’ll head out for sunset to look for turtle hatchlings. We’ll finish the day discussing our interactions and reviewing photos over dinner.
The rest of the week will follow a similar rhythm of in-water learning. I believe the best way to learn is by doing, so this workshop focuses on time in nature rather than classrooms. Education sessions are short but packed with information designed to help you reach the next level in your photography.
What People Say - Read the Reviews
'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.' - Eden Huigens
'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
'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 Macfarlane
Is this for you?
This workshop is catered for people at various stages of their underwater journey. From seasoned photographers comfortable with free diving down to depths of 15-20m to those that are just starting out. Guests will be split into groups based on their experience. Just because you can't freedive doesn't mean you won't see anything. Guests that are new to their underwater journey can spend time in the lagoon and in the shallow side of the Western Reefs. You'll be able to swim with turtles, sharks, rays and more. On our private charter, we will look for surface feeding mantas so you get the chance to swim with manta rays. For those of you comfortable with freediving, you will have the chance to see mantas at cleaning stations, leopard sharks resting on the sandy bottom, various shark species from tigers to whalers and a range of other species.
Cost & Accommodation Type
The workshop cost will vary based on the accommodation type that you book. There are three types of accommodation available and they are available as either shared or exclusive. The accommodation types are as follows:
Eco Cabins (sleeps upto 4)
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.
$3,295 shared or $3,795 exclusive
$1,000 deposit required on booking with remaining balance due six weeks before workshop commencement date.
Garden Units (sleeps upto 2)
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.
SOLD OUT
$1,000 deposit required on booking with remaining balance due six weeks before workshop commencement date.
Reef Units (sleeps upto 2)
The Reef Units are 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, they are ideal for couples or families, configured with 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.
$4,190 shared or $4,790 exclusive
$1,000 deposit required on booking with remaining balance due six weeks before workshop commencement date.
For more information on the accommodation type, please refer to Lady Elliot 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 our Lady Elliot Island Turtle Hatchling Expedition and let the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef inspire your photography like never before. Limited to ten guests.
