March 29, 2018

Photographing Antarctica! Is it really a place accessible for you, an adventurous wild life and landscape photographer?

We had never thought seriously about Antarctica as a destination that was accessible for a photography trip. We thought it was a place national geographic went to spend months filming the Emperor penguins or home to a small village for scientists to research the most remote place on earth. Beyond learning about english explorer Scott, and Nz expeditions from legends like sir Edmond Hillary, I thought it was an extreme and hostile part of the globe, however It’s becoming apparent that we were uninformed! Wildlife, remote and extreme landscapes, untouched scenery and a boat to accommodate and access it all. Antarctica has now made the bucket list!

Here are some things to know about Antarctica

Best Time of Year for a photography trip:

During the Southern Hemisphere winter, Antarctica is off limits, no boats or planes operate. The best time of year to go to Antarctica is around Dec, as spring turns to summer, wildlife is most active, fresh snow is possible but the weather is free from howling blizzards and temperatures that can turn an iceberg into dry ice. With prolonged day light during this period, opportunities to capture the ice and snow with the spectrum of hues and everlasting light for wildlife action sounds like a recipe for dream results.

Antarctica photography trips

From whales (orca, minke, and humpback), to crabeater, elephant, leopard and Weddell seals, countless numbers of penguins, and many, many albatrosses, petrels, and other sea birds I would imagine there is never a dull moment to capture unique images of some playful and curious creatures. Many of the wildlife use this ecosytem to breed, feed and fatten up. All that diversity attracts a unique feeding opportunity for predators. Whether or not it is possible to capture great white sharks feeding on seals, you’ll have to let us know once you capture the image.

From a photography point of view, we are always looking for new and unseen images, whilst there is still plenty of spectacular images to capture  in places like Norway and Iceland, Antarctica has not only an abundance of unique photo opportunities but with strict controls on activity it is truly untouched and unspoiled.

How do you access Antarctica for a photography trip?

There are a few operators that run cruises to antarctica or you could get yourself a gig as a volunteer at Scott base, however there is one option in particular that focuses on an expedition for photography. Equipped with their own boat, photography pros and nature experts, Muench workshops offer an outstanding Antarctica Expedition. Focused on photography, you will be free from rapidly capturing your photo whilst the rest of the cruise ship is trying to move to the next location. From reading Muench’s testimonials, it’s a life changing experience.

Did I mention the best photography locations, professional tutoring onsite with a range of photography classes whilst on the boat? An all inclusive photography workshop to a truly unique destination.

Find out more about Muench Workshops to Antarctic.

Don’t forget to get prepared for winter photography. Even though it’s classified as “Summer” when you visit the Antarctic, in reality it’s comparable to winter in most other parts of the globe just with longer daylight. Get geared up with gloves and knowledge on how to shoot in winter.

If you have experienced Antarctica through the lens already, we’d love to hear from you. Write a comment below or send us an email as we’d be pumped to hear your story.

– Carl

Photos Courtesy of Muench Workshops.

If you liked this post, you’ll love these too!

Winter is no joke! Keep warm and shop our range of Vallerret Photography Gloves.


Leave a comment

Comments will be approved before showing up.


Also in Vallerret Articles

The Best Glove for Your Winter Holiday
The Best Gloves for Your Winter Holiday

November 27, 2023

It’s a question we get all the time: What is the best glove for my winter holiday? Whether you’re headed to the Arctic or Japan, we know how crucial it is to have the right gear dialed in before you hop on that plane. There’s nothing worse than investing in gear that doesn’t work for you. Finding a glove that works best for everyone can be tricky but we’ve learned some tips over the years to help you get the right glove for your winter holiday.
Read More
Black Friday at Vallerret: Deals are Out, Mother Nature is In
Black Friday at Vallerret: Deals are Out, Mother Nature is In

November 21, 2023 5 Comments

This Black Friday we are once again donating all profits from sales to The Norwegian Society for Conservation to help preserve one of the most iconic and recognizable photography locations on the planet: Lofoten. Visiting Lofoten is a dream for most photographers but this pristine location is at constant threat and the NSC is working to keep Lofoten wild. Read more to see how you can help.
Read More
The Ultimate Glove Gift Guide for Photographers 2023
The Ultimate Glove Gift Guide for Photographers 2023

October 27, 2023 2 Comments

It’s that time of the year. The fireplaces are roaring, the snow is falling and everyone is scrambling to find the perfect gift for their loved ones this year. As fellow photographers ourselves, we know how hard buying for a photographer can be. If you’re left confused by the technical jargon and tech specs of products you don’t understand then you’re in luck. Read on for our gift recommendations. 
Read More