Otter photography workshop
Join me on a three day Otter photography workshop on the Isle of Mull.
Mull is one of the best locations in the UK to see and photograph otters in a truly wild setting. Its rugged coastline, quiet sea lochs and high population of Otters make it ideal for consistent encounters.
I have designed this workshop to give you the time and knowledge needed to photograph otters properly. We focus on fieldcraft, behaviour and positioning to help you create strong, natural images.
As with all my workshops, I follow strict ethical principles targeting no disruption to the Otters.
The Eurasian Otter
The Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra) is the UK’s only native otter species.
Otters are a semi-aquatic mammals living along rivers, lochs and coastal shorelines. Mull has a very healthy population of Otters. With a guide you can regularly see them hunting in shallow sea lochs and along rocky coastline.
Otters have evolved and adapted for life in the water. They have dense waterproof fur, strong swimming abilities and excellent underwater vision.
Otters feed mainly on fish, along with crabs and other marine prey. They spend most of their time fishing, grooming and resting.
They are typically solitary and can cover large areas of coastline. Encounters often come down to patience, observation and understanding behaviour.
Despite being widespread in Scotland, otters can be challenging to photograph well. Getting close, low-level and in good light requires careful fieldcraft and respect for the animal. An Otter photography workshop provides a good way to learn these skills.
What to expect
On this Otter photography workshop, we will spend long days in the field. Expect early starts and late finishes as needed. Otter photography often involves patience, but the rewards are so worth it.
We work around tides, light and otter activity. Each day is flexible and adapted to conditions to give us the best possible opportunities.
I guide all my workshops and will be on hand throughout to support you with both fieldcraft and photographic techniques.
Photographic opportunities
Mull offers excellent opportunities to photograph otters in a natural coastal environment. This is why I host my Otter photography workshops here.
Subjects can include:
- Otters hunting and bringing fish ashore to feed
- Families of Otter interacting
- Environmental portraits
- Low-level shoreline images
Every encounter is different, but the aim is always to create clean, natural images that tell a story. During the workshop, we strive to capture a variety of images. This will enhance your portfolio.
What you will learn
With this Otter photography workshop I focus on improving your photos, your photography and your understanding of otters.
We will cover:
- How to locate otters in coastal habitats
- Understanding Otter behaviour and predicting movement
- Fieldcraft and positioning
- Shooting from low angles for better perspective
- Managing exposure in challenging light
The goal is to help you become more confident and consistent in your wildlife photography.
Location
The Otter photography workshop takes place on the Isle of Mull known for its fantastic wildlife including Otters.
We use a range of locations across the island, selected based on current conditions and recent activity. It is important that you do not share specific locations to avoid future disturbance.
Depending on the plan for each day we will agree a meeting point each day. Participants will need to get to this location by their own transport for the agreed time. By prior arrangement, I can collect you each day from accommodation located anywhere between Salen and Ardura on A849.
Group size
Group size is limited to a minimum and maximum of two participants.
This ensures more consistent Otter sightings, personal tuition and flexible decision-making in the field.
Who this is for
This Otter photography workshop is suitable for all levels, from beginners to more experienced photographers.
You should have a basic understanding of your camera and be keen to improve your wildlife photography skills.
Patience and a willingness to spend time observing wildlife are essential.
Fitness
A moderate level of fitness is required.
We will spend long periods outdoors and will be walking along uneven or rocky shoreline. Some of my Otter sightings have lasted for over 3 hours during which I have been laid on the ground!
Conditions can be wet and changeable, so your clothing should be comfortable working outside for extended periods in all weather.
Please inform me of any accessibility requirements when booking
Accessibility
This workshop can be adapted for those with accessibility limitations (for example car based photography or including less walking). Please get in touch to discuss your requirements. I am committed to making my workshops as accessible. Please see my accessibility policy for more information.
What’s included
This workshop includes the following:
- Three full days of guiding on Mull
- In-field tuition and support
- Pre-workshop guidance on what to bring
- All transport during each day from agreed meeting point
- Hot drinks and snacks from my van
What’s not included
- Accommodation on the Isle of Mull
- Travel to and from the island
- Meals (bring a packed lunch each day)
Participants are responsible for arranging their own accommodation. If you want to keep travel to a minimum, book accommodation between Salen and Ardura on the A849.
Ethical approach
Respect and protection of wildlife is at the heart of everything I do. This workshop follows a strong ethical approach to have minimal disturbance and a positive experience for both wildlife and participants.
Full coaching will be given to ensure appropriate fieldcraft techniques with the Otters. You are required to follow this guidance at all times. If you fail to do so, it will significantly limit your encounters with Otters. In the rare event of repeated poor fieldcraft, I will limit your access to the shore. A refund will not be available in this situation.
To avoid locations being overused in the future, participants must not share the locations we use. You should not disclose locations online or by word of mouth.
I am signed up to the principles of Nature First in my wildlife photography.
Booking & availability
All workshop bookings are subject to my standard terms & conditions.
Small Group Workshops – £700 per person
Private Workshop – Get in Touch
Alternatively I can offer bespoke private workshops for one or two people tailored to your needs. A wider range of dates can be accommodated for these workshops.