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wildlife photography

Why Choose Natural Light for Underwater Photography?

Wildlife photographer Jean Dubois, shooting using natural light… Crocodile Diving off Banco Chinchorro, MX. 1/320, f8, ISO 500

When it comes to underwater photography, strobes are often the go-to choice for professionals. They bring out vibrant colors and allow for incredible detail in any lighting condition. However, there’s another side to underwater photography that’s often overlooked but equally exciting… Natural Light Photography.

This approach leverages ambient light from the sun to create images with a more organic and authentic feel. It’s less intrusive to wildlife, offers greater freedom of movement, and provides a unique challenge that pushes your skills as a photographer.

Black Manta Ray off Socorro Island, Mexico. 1/320, f8, ISO 1000

Let’s dive into why natural light photography is worth exploring.

One of the biggest advantages of natural light photography is the freedom it gives you underwater. Without strobes and bulky strobe arms attached to your camera rig, you’re far more streamlined. This makes swimming easier, especially when free diving or dealing with strong currents.

Great Hammerheads off Bimini Bahamas. 1/320, f8, ISO 320

More importantly, it allows you to move fluidly and follow wildlife with minimal disruption.

Animals are often spooked by flashing lights, but with natural light, you can get closer and stay longer, building trust and capturing more intimate moments.

Natural light photography is less intrusive, which can be a game-changer when photographing sensitive marine animals like sharks, whales, and dolphins. Without the startling pop of a strobe, they are more likely to stay calm and tolerate your presence.

Some of my favorite moments underwater have been with animals mere inches from my dome port, calmly going about their lives. It’s these moments that make natural light photography so rewarding—it’s not just about capturing a shot but trying to experience a genuine connection with the wildlife.

Right Whale off Patagonia, photographed under permit. 1/320, f9, ISO 800

Of course, natural light photography comes with its challenges. The underwater environment absorbs light and color at different depths:

  • Red disappears around 15 feet.

  • Orange fades by 30 feet.

  • Yellow is gone by 60 feet.

  • Greens fade by 100 feet, leaving mostly blues.

This means your ability to capture vibrant images depends heavily on factors like depth, water clarity, and time of day. Cloudy skies or low light conditions can make it even more difficult, requiring careful adjustments to your camera settings.

Great White Shark off Guadalupe Island, MX. 1/320, f8, ISO 400.

Despite the challenges, natural light photography is incredibly rewarding.

It forces you to think creatively, adapt to your environment, and work within the constraints of the available light. But, when you nail the exposure, composition, and timing, the results are nothing short of magical.

To me, natural light images have a raw, authentic feel that strobes can’t replicate. They reflect the beauty of the underwater world as it truly is—dynamic, ever-changing, and awe-inspiring.

Sailfish off Magdalena Island, MX. 1/640, f8, ISO 1600

Is Natural Light Photography for You?

Shooting with natural light allows you the opportunity to connect with wildlife on a deeper level. It’s not just a technique; it’s an experience that pushes you to grow as a photographer and a storyteller.

Stay tuned for the next blog in this series, where I’ll dive into the euphotic zone… the key to understanding how sunlight interacts with the underwater world and how to use it to your advantage.

THIS IS PART 1 OF A 10 PART SERIES.

Through the Lens: Capturing Wildlife Moments That Tell a Story

Wildlife photography is so much more than just taking a picture. It’s about telling a story—one that evokes emotion, inspires awe, and sometimes even drives conservation efforts.

Through your lens, you’re not just capturing an image; you’re sharing a piece of the natural world that many people will never experience firsthand.

Polar Bears Play wrestling in the Churchill River, Canada. 1/5000, f5.6, ISO 1250

Great wildlife photography begins long before you press the shutter.

It starts with understanding animal behavior, researching the environment, and having the right gear for the job. Having good guides that know when and where to find your subject can make all the difference in the world.

Juvenile Elephant Seal. Patagonia, Argentina. 1/1600, f5.6, ISO 250

Timing your trips around migrations or mating seasons can provide incredible opportunities to witness unique behaviors.

Mating Atlantic Spotted Dolphins off Bimini, Bahamas. 1/500, f8, ISO 1000

Equally important is your equipment. While you don’t need the fanciest gear, having the right lens and a camera that performs well in low light can help make your shots better.

Arctic Fox off Churchill, Canada. 1/1600, f11, ISO 640

HOT TIP. Always carry extra batteries and memory cards—you never know when the perfect moment will happen. If nothing else I shared doesn’t resonate, remember this tip… I learned this one the hard way.

Blue Sheep Kibber Valley, Himalayas, India. 1/2500, f11, ISO 2000

Capturing dramatic compositions is key to creating images that stand out.

Use natural light to your advantage, whether it’s the golden glow of sunrise or the soft hues of sunset. Pay attention to your background and how it might complement your subject.

Sealion hunting baitballs off Magdalena Bay, Baja. 1/500, f8, ISO 1250

For fast-moving animals, mastering your camera’s focus settings is essential. Practice panning with moving subjects to achieve sharp focus on the animal while keeping a sense of motion in the image. And don’t be afraid to experiment—sometimes, the unexpected angles produce the most compelling results.

Jaguar hunting a yellow anaconda, Northern Pantanal Brazil. 1/4000, f5.6, ISO 1600

Wildlife photography comes with a responsibility to respect the animals and their environment.

Always keep a safe distance and avoid actions that could stress or disrupt the animal’s natural behavior. Remember, a great shot is never worth compromising the well-being of the wildlife you’re photographing.

Lemon Shark getting its teeth cleaned by a young remora off Tiger Beach. 1/320, f9, ISO 400.

While portraits of animals are beautiful, my personal favorite images are behavior shots.

There’s something magical about capturing an animal in action—whether it’s a whale breaching, a bird feeding its chicks, or a predator stalking prey.

Behavior images tell a story and bring the animal’s world to life in a way that static portraits simply cannot.

Bobcat catching red winged blackbird, Rio Grande Valley, Texas. 1/1000, f7.1, ISO 5000

One of my most memorable shots was of a bobcat catching a bird while jumping through the air. The image was not perfect, however the long hours we put into trying to capture this wild moment is why this image will forever be one of my favorites.

Giant River Otters, Northern Pantanal, Brazil. 1/1600, f7.1, ISO 1000

Wildlife photography is a journey of patience, skill, passion, and a lot of luck!

Each image you capture is a window into the natural world. It is your chance to inspire, educate, and protect our beloved wildlife.

So grab your camera, step into the wild, and start telling stories.

New Year... New Adventures and Our Vision for 2025

Happy New Year!

Image by Becky Kegan

As we welcome 2025, we want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journeys of 2024 and share our vision for the year ahead. Thank you for being part of this adventure with us—whether you joined us on a trip, followed our stories online, or supported our work from afar.

Your enthusiasm fuels everything we do.

Looking Back at 2024
Last year was filled with unforgettable moments. From swimming with orcas in Norway to capturing baitball action during the Sardine Run in Baja… we shared awe-inspiring experiences with amazing people.

Each trip reminded us of the beauty and fragility of the natural world and reinforced our commitment to conservation.

What’s Ahead for 2025
This year, we have new dreams…

We’re introducing a new destination, Brown Bears in Katmai. We are also enhancing our Youtube Channel, and finding even more ways to connect you with the incredible wildlife and ecosystems that make our planet so special.

Whether it’s swimming alongside humpback whales in Tonga, exploring remote mangroves for elusive predators, or photographing iconic marine life, 2025 promises to be packed with adventure.

We’re also doubling down on our conservation efforts, using our platform to raise awareness for endangered species and vulnerable habitats.

By sharing these stories, we aim to inspire others to cherish and protect what is left of our wild places that we love so much.

Join Us on This Journey.

We can’t wait to kick off this season and share this year’s adventures with you.

If you’ve been dreaming of a bucket-list trip or have a destination in mind, now’s the perfect time to make it happen.

Check out our upcoming trips and let us help you plan your next wildlife holiday.

Thank you for being part of our community.

Your support means the world to us.

Wishing you all an extraordinary 2025 filled with love, light, and adventure!

SO WILD… The Final Adventures of the Year.

As I prepare to wrap up the 2024 season, I am on the boat, motoring out to Tiger Beach as I write this.

The familiar sight of the open ocean and the anticipation of seeing my old friends (the tigers), fills me with excitement and gratitude.

This year has been nothing short of extraordinary. From unforgettable wildlife encounters to the incredible people I’ve shared these adventures with… 2024 has been a season to remember.

I’m deeply grateful for the moments that made it so special—the wildlife, the people, and the experiences that stay with you long after the trips are over.

These final two trips are my chance to soak in every last bit of the magic this year has to offer.

I’m looking forward to sharing what we see out here with all of you—I love bringing a little piece of the wild back to everyone following along.

While I’m excited about the possibilities of a new year and all the adventures to come, right now, I’m focused on savoring these last moments of the season.

Here’s to making the most of 2024’s final days, and to saying goodbye to an unforgettable year.

Stay tuned for updates from the field, and thank you for being part of this journey!

The Double-Edged Sword of Ecotourism... Are We Loving Wildlife to Death?

Over the past decade, social media has transformed the way we connect with wildlife.

Stunning photos and videos of humpback whales breaching, polar bears roaming the tundra, or tigers stalking through the forest inspire millions to explore these wild places.

This surge in interest has fueled a massive growth in ecotourism, bringing much-needed attention and funding to local communities and conservation efforts.

But as more people flock to wildlife hotspots, it raises an important question:

Can we love an animal to death?

Grey Whale watching off Magdalena Bay, Mexico.

There’s no denying the power of witnessing wildlife up close.

These experiences foster deep connections and inspire a sense of responsibility for protecting our planet’s most vulnerable species.

Ecotourism provides vital economic support for local communities, often funding anti-poaching initiatives, habitat restoration, and education programs.

In my opinion, ecotourism is the key to the survival of many species.

The sad reality is that governments often don’t care about wildlife unless there’s money involved. They collect revenue either from ecotourism operators or from industries like fishing or hunting—and they don’t care which one it is… as long as the money flows their way.

This means that when wildlife has economic value tied to tourism, it’s more likely to be protected.

Ecotourism not only funds conservation efforts but also creates incentives for governments and communities to prioritize wildlife over exploitation.

Yet, there’s a darker side.

Increased human presence can disrupt natural behaviors. Animals may become stressed, altering their feeding, migration, or mating patterns. Some even become habituated to humans, which can put them at risk of harm or conflict.

The truth is, most animals don’t want us there.

Whether it’s a whale avoid boats, a fox fleeing at the sight of humans, or a bird scared off its nest, these are clear signs that our presence isn’t always welcome.

And I’m the first to admit—I’ve been guilty of this. I’ve wanted to see an animal and capture their beauty through a lens, even when they’ve shown signs of wanting to be left alone.

What I’ve learned over time, however, is that the true magic of wildlife encounters happens when an animal chooses to be in our presence… or tolerates it.

Grey whale asking for a face rub.

Through patience and respect, these moments are far more rewarding and meaningful. Watching an orca glide alongside our boat without fear or seeing a bear go about its life undisturbed—that’s when you truly feel a connection to the wild.

Despite the challenges, I firmly believe ecotourism is the only way to save wildlife.

It gives animals an economic value tied to their survival, creating incentives for protection rather than exploitation.

With respect and care, we can still visit our favorite wild places and create positive experiences for both people and wildlife.

As travelers, we hold the power to ensure that our adventures leave a positive impact:

  • Choose responsible operators who prioritize animal welfare and conservation.

  • Be respectful with wildlife, avoiding behaviors that may stress or scare them.

  • Use social media thoughtfully—avoid tagging/sharing fragile locations to prevent overcrowding.

By treading lightly and embracing responsible tourism, we can preserve the species we love while fostering deep connections that inspire conservation.

Ecotourism has the potential to be a powerful force for good… but only if it’s done right.

With patience, respect, and a focus on responsible travel, we can continue to explore the wild places we love while ensuring wildlife thrives for generations to come.

Thank you for reading.

Photographing Polar Bears in the Snow!!!

1/2500, f5.6, ISO 400.

Churchill, Canada, is often referred to as the "Polar Bear Capital of the World," and for a good reason. The bear activity here is absolutely EPIC!

With its breathtaking landscapes and opportunities for up-close encounters with amazing animals, it’s a dream destination for any wildlife photographer.

I had the privilege of spending the past two winter seasons on the tundra, capturing these iconic animals in their natural, snowy environment.

1/1600, f11, ISO 400.

1/1600, f11, ISO 800.

Churchill’s landscape is like something from another world. Endless stretches of snow and ice create a stunning white canvas, interrupted only by the occasional patch of frozen tundra, and boulders that pepper the landscape.

The light changes throughout the day. Most of the time it is amazing with a lot of sun, other times the cloud cover will darken it all. But those cloud covered days do help soften that harsh afternoon light, which allows us to shoot throughout the day.

Mornings are epic, with the golden hues of dawn casting a magical glow over the snow, creating perfect conditions for photography.

1/1000, f5.6, ISO 1000.

Winter is truly an epic time to be out here. It is beautiful, and romantic, and dramatic, and on and on and on… but damn it is COLD!!!

It can be so cold, that my fingers can only hold the camera for short spurts before I have to cover them up, because they hurt so bad.

Some days the conditions are just perfect, and you can shoot all day outside, but other days, man the air is sharp as daggers, and you have to seek shelter from it, because it hurts.

Being out here, you can’t help but feel a deep respect for the creatures that are so perfectly adapted to thrive in this unforgiving environment.

1/2000, f5.6, ISO 2000.

The real thrill of this adventure is being on the ground, capturing polar bears up close. We used vans that are tough and built for this weather and terrain, allowing us to get close to the bears without compromising our safety or theirs.

There’s something incredibly personal about being at ground level with these iconic predators. You feel their presence, and the sheer wildness of these guys.

They have these massive Tundra Buggies in Churchill, which are cool, but I have never been a fan of shooting from a raised platform or a distance. I prefer ground shooting… just love to get close.

Photographing polar bears from the ground is exhilarating, but it’s not without its risks.

I admit, you are never really safe anywhere you go on the Tundra. The bears keep you wary and always looking over your shoulder. Of course this is why we always have a bear guard with us at all times, when we are out there.

Their presence allowed us to focus on capturing the bears without that added worry of danger.

1/600, f5.6, ISO 500.

But I admit I love that feeling of knowing we are out in a raw and wild place where you are never truly safe. There are not many places left in the world that are still truly wild… Churchill is one of those places.

And maybe that’s why this experience means so much to me. It’s not just about the photos—it’s about feeling alive in a place where nature is still in control.

Churchill reminds me that there are places where we’re just visitors, and for me, that’s where the magic happens.

1/1600, f5.6, ISO 400.

Shooting in Churchill’s snowy conditions presented some unique challenges. The bright, white snow can easily fool a camera’s light meter, leading to overexposed images.

Here are the settings I used to get the best results:

  1. Exposure Compensation: I found that dialing in +1 to +1.5 exposure compensation helped prevent the camera from underexposing the scene. The snow tends to trick the meter into thinking it’s brighter than it is, so adding some exposure brings back the true detail.

  2. ISO: The light was often low, especially during dawn and dusk, so I used an ISO range of 400 to 800 to maintain a fast enough shutter speed while keeping noise at a manageable level.

  3. Shutter Speed: To freeze the action of a moving bear, I kept my shutter speed at 1/1000s or faster. When the bears were resting, I could drop it to 1/800s, but with these active animals, faster is generally better.

  4. Aperture: I shot with a fairly wide aperture, around f/4 to f/5.6, to create a shallow depth of field that allowed me to separate the bear from the background while keeping enough of the animal in focus.

  5. White Balance: I set my white balance manually to "Cloudy" or "Shade" to add warmth to the scene and counteract the blue tones that can dominate snowy environments.

  6. Focusing Mode: I used continuous autofocus (AI Servo) to track the bears as they moved. These animals can be unpredictable, and having the camera continuously adjust the focus was essential for getting sharp images.

1/1600, f5.6, ISO 320.

A Day with Black Bears in North Carolina’s Alligator River Wildlife Refuge

There’s something truly magical about spending a day looking for black bears in the Alligator River Wildlife Refuge. This place has become like a second home to me, where every bend in the dirt road promises a new adventure. I love it out here… the air is fresh, the bears are curious, and every moment feels like a gift.

Morning: The Journey Begins

My day starts early, just as the first light of dawn begins to break. I leave my hotel room, grab a quick breakfast, and head out with my gear. There’s something special about these early mornings; they always feel full of promise, where anything can happen. The drive to the refuge is quiet and quick, and I take in the peacefulness of the landscape waking up around me.

With my camera ready beside me, I hop into my truck and head out along the dirt roads of the refuge. The Alligator River Wildlife Refuge is one of those places that feels like it belongs to another time—wild, untamed, and full of life.

I’ve been coming here for a few years now, and yet, every trip feels like the first.

As I drive slowly, the crunch of the tires on the gravel almost seems too loud in the stillness. I wish I could keep my windows rolled down, but the horse flies here can be brutal sometimes. A small price to pay to find magic in wild places.

I keep my eyes peeled, scanning the sides of the road for any signs of bear activity. And then, there it is—a black bear grazing on tall grasses on the side of the road. My heart skips a beat. These moments are what I live for.

I stop the truck, grab my camera, and step out, staying close to the vehicle just in case. The bears here are used to people, but I never want to take that for granted.

Some of the bears here are shy, but most have become comfortable with our presence. I crouch down to try and get a low-angle shot. The bears back is to me. It stops eating, turns around to look at me. It watches me for a few seconds, then decides it wants nothing to do with me and disappears into the forest.

I drive on. Sorry I disturbed your breakfast buddy.

I drive for a couple hours, the day is heating up and not much is going on, so I decide to break for lunch, but Ill be back in a few hours, when the sun starts getting low. Late afternoons are always good here.

Later That Day.
I spend the afternoon driving through the refuge’s diverse habitats—dense pine forests, open fields dotted with wildflowers, and wetland areas where great blue herons stand perfectly still, like statues. Every corner of this place has its own story, its own secrets waiting to be discovered.

It’s not just about the bears, although they are certainly the stars of the show. Along the way, I spot a barred owl hunting crayfish in the canals on the side of the road. The owl is completely relaxed around people.

A few cars see me stopped and drive up to see what I am photographing. The wildlife here is abundant and awe-inspiring, and I feel incredibly lucky to be a part of it, even if just for a day.

Continuing down the road, I turn a corner and spot another black bear up ahead, right near one of the many irrigation ditches filled with water. I recognize this bear—one of the regulars. I’ve seen it many times before. I stop the truck and quietly get out to get a better view.

When dealing with predatory animals, I never forget what they are or what I am doing. I have had encounters with this bear for the past three days… She is well-behaved, very well-mannered, and comfortable around people. 

I jumped back in the car and moved ahead of the bear. I know where she is going… it is time for her afternoon bath. 

I stop the truck close to the area where I think she will stop at and get out.

Sure enough, she wades into the ditch, plopping down with a contented huff. For a good twenty minutes, I watch this bear take a bath. This is one of those simple joys that never gets old. It’s funny, almost endearing, to see this powerful animal so at ease, splashing around like a kid on a hot summer day.

There’s a sense of peace in these moments, a feeling that everything is exactly as it should be. I snap a few photos, but mostly, I just watch, soaking it all in. After a while, she finishes up, shakes off the water, glances in my direction for a second, then lumbers back into the forest to find a place to bed down for the night.

As the day begins to wind down, I make my way back to a familiar clearing where I’ve seen bears before. The golden hour light bathes everything in a warm glow, and I know this is my last chance for a sighting today. I park the truck and settle in, feeling that familiar mix of hope and anticipation.

Just as the sun is dipping below the horizon, I see a few bears walking out of the forest. It is mating season so they approach the open fields cautiously. One of the bears is walking in my direction, making its way through the tall grass. I try not to move too much, not wanting to disturb the moment. The bear stops to eat wild-growing blackberries in front of me. I am on fire, and snap photo after photo.

Another bear decides it does not like the vibe and desides to walk back into the forest. But before it disappears, it walks over to a pine tree on the edge of the forest, stands up and begins scratching its back. I fire away! It is an amazing scene, and I am so appreciative of my luck. I just keep saying to myself, I hope some of these images are in focus.

After a while, I stop shooting and just watch the rest of the evening’s stories unfold. There’s something so pure about watching wild bears being bears. It’s these quiet, intimate moments that stay with me long after I’ve left the refuge.

Reflections at the End of the Day

Back at the hotel, I kick off my shoes and reflect on the day. I have to admit, there’s something comforting about returning to a warm, comfortable room after a day out in the wild. I go through the photos I took, reliving each moment—looking to see if I captured anything special… and I definitely did!

Tracking black bears in the Alligator River Wildlife Refuge isn’t just about finding the bears—it’s about being fully present in the moment, feeling the earth under your feet, and understanding that you are a part of something much bigger than yourself. It’s a reminder of the beauty of the natural world and our place within it.

What’s truly remarkable to me is that these wild places still exist, so close to human habitation. They offer a glimpse into a world that is both fragile and resilient… a world we are privileged to share. 

To me it’s a reminder that we need to coexist with these incredible creatures and protect the last of these wild places. They are vital not just for the wildlife that calls them home, but for us as well, as they remind us of what it means to be truly alive. 

Today was a good day. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Photographing Wildlife... Some Tips for Capturing Animals in Action.

Photographing wildlife has always been one of my greatest passions. There's nothing quite like the thrill of capturing a great image of an animal in its natural habitat, whether it’s a tiger prowling through the forest or an orca, mom and calf swimming through the ocean.

Over the years, I’ve learned that getting the perfect shot is more than just having a good camera; it’s about understanding the behavior of the animals and being prepared to capture those fleeting moments.

Here are some essential tips I’ve gathered from my own adventures in the wild, which I hope will help you capture stunning wildlife photos of your own.

1. Understand Animal Behavior

One of the first things I realized early on is the importance of understanding the animals you’re photographing. Every species has unique behaviors, and being familiar with these can help you anticipate their movements.

For example, if you’re photographing a fox, knowing that they tend to be more active at dawn and dusk can guide you on the best times to shoot. Similarly, understanding that a perched bird will often defecate right before flight can help you prepare for the perfect shot just as it takes off.

This type of knowledge has helped me capture some of my most cherished photos.

2. Choose the Right Camera Settings

When it comes to wildlife photography, your camera settings can make or break your shot. Fast-moving animals require a faster shutter speed to freeze the action. I typically set my shutter speed to at least 1/2000th of a second for fast-moving subjects like birds or big cats.

If you’re photographing slower animals, such as tortoises or resting deer, you can afford a slower shutter speed.

Aperture settings also play a crucial role. A wider aperture (like f/2.8 or f/4) allows for a shallow depth of field, making your subject stand out against a beautifully blurred background. This works wonderfully when photographing animals in dense foliage or when you want to isolate them from a busy environment.

3. Be Patient and Stay Ready

Patience is your best friend in wildlife photography. I’ve spent countless hours sitting quietly, waiting for that perfect moment.

Whether it’s waiting for a bobcat to pop out of the bushes to catch a bird, or for a breaching whale, those moments don’t come on command.

But trust me, the wait is always worth it… so always have your camera ready.

Wildlife is unpredictable, and you never know when an animal will make a sudden move. Keep your camera on and your finger on the shutter. A quick reflex can mean the difference between capturing a fleeting moment, or missing it altogether.

4. Focus on the Eyes

There’s a saying in wildlife photography: “If you can see the eyes, you can see the soul.” I find this to be true.

Focusing on the animal’s eyes can create a powerful connection between the subject and the viewer. It brings life to the photo and can tell a good story.

Whenever possible, try to lock focus on the eyes of the animal.

5. Respect Wildlife and Their Habitat

Last but certainly not least, ALWAYS respect the wildlife and their natural environment. Keeping a safe distance not only protects you but also prevents stress to the animals.

Remember, we are guests in their world.

Wildlife photography is an art that combines technical skill with a deep respect for nature. Every shot is a new adventure, a new story waiting to be told. So grab your camera, do your research, be patient, and above all, enjoy every moment in the wild.

Happy shooting!

Day One Was Fun... Love Dem Sharks!

Canon 5D M4, with an 8-15MM fisheye, in an Aquatica housing - my settings were 1/400, f9, ISO 800

Day one off Isla Mujeres for whale sharks is in the books.

It was a really good day, and the conditions were amazing. Thankfully there was quite a few sharks out here, maybe around fifty whale sharks. It was not the hundreds that we normally see out during this time of year. But it is early in the week, and I am predicting that the number of sharks will keep increasing over the next few days.

We have had the same captains for our trips for the past 12 years. Captain Gabby and Rami greeted us at the pier this morning and asked Mari where Sophia was, she pointed her out, they did not recognize the young lady before them. She started coming out with us on our whale shark trips when she was 5 years old, she is now 16 years old. Because of covid, it has been two years since they have seen her. They were blown away. Captain Gabby got a bit teary eyed. It was so sweet.

Heading out this morning.

Super happy with the day we had today, our captain told us that the shark action the previous weeks had been super slow. But that is nature, you never know what she is going to gift you with. Thankfully we arrived at the right time… and if this week goes the way I think it will, it should be a good week.

Today, it is official…when I jumped in the water with the sharks this morning, that made 18 years of swimming with the whales sharks in Mexico.

18 years!!!

We started running these trips back in 2005, and here we are all these years later, still out here, and still enjoying the hell out of it. I really love being in the water with these animals, it is still a lot of fun to me. That has not changed, and I don’t think it ever will.

Canon 5D M4, with an 8-15MM fisheye, in an Aquatica housing - my settings were 1/400, f9, ISO 800

Ok, headed to bed, just thought I’d share a little bit of our day’s adventure, and a couple shots I captured. There is a lot of food in the water so the vis and the images are a bit dirty, but that is why the sharks aggregate together in these kind of numbers. Lots of munchies and crunchies to eat.

Day two tomorrow.

Until then… good night my friends.

A GOLDEN MOMENT

Life on Location.

In our last newsletter, I shared with you our new sponsor Cinebags. When I received the box with all my goodies in it, I was excited about everything sent to me. It is always fun getting new gear for your travels.

I can't wait to use it all.

However, what stood out for me was their product Thank You card and the small catalog in the box, promoting all their bags and merchandise. On the cards and catalogs were images of their gear, out in the world, being used by people just like me and you - experiencing life, with the words, Life on Location on it.

Life on Location is the company's motto or tagline. Their motto and their catalog got me so fired up. As I looked at those images and read those words, my mind magically transported me to my next adventure. I felt travel anxiety and wanted to be out there right now.

Receiving that package was an experience. I loved it.

Markus (the owner of Cinebags), left me in awe of not only his product but his storytelling abilities. I was sitting there, with my mind racing about my own storytelling skills, hoping that is what we are able to do when we share experiences with you all.

Jaguar off the Northern Pantanal, Brazil.

Every time I share images or write a trip report or a travel blog, my goal is to hopefully transport you to wherever it is we are. I want you to feel the excitement we feel when we photograph or find the animals we are looking for, helping you long for your own adventures.

I am sure we do not always accomplish this, but I hope that most of what we put out into the world gets you fired up. Of course, sometimes I think I over-share by writing about our bad days - talking about terrible seas or days that the animals do not show up.

Beluga whales in the Churchill River. Churchill, Canada.

That is not good business, I am told.

But to me, if I just shared only the good things from our adventures, my stories wouldn't be stories, they would be fairy tale sales pitches, and that is not me.

We have good days and bad days. That is just life and the reality of looking for wild things. I know our job when we write is to transport you to a magical place, but those far away sites are real, and this is not Disney - they sometimes have crappy weather and hard-to-find animals.

Off the Beaten Path. Searching for anacondas on the Southern Pantanal, Brazil.

That is just part of the job, and what makes each interaction so special. 

To find the animals we photograph takes work. They are wild and free, and sometimes nature is not kind.

Leopard shark diving off La Jolla Shores, California.

Night safari off Borneo Malaysia.

For me, it should not be easy, it should be a challenge. So that when you do find them, the emotions you feel are the true reward, and the excitement is just the best.

Of course, when we do find them, those are my favorite stories to write. Journaling my thoughts, and looking at the images we captured at the end of a long exciting day… I am filled with fire as I am writing. 

And that fire is what I hope comes out in the writing and images that I share.

Orca diving off Baja, Mexico.

I want to move you so much that you take action in your own life. I want you to create your own memories and write your own stories… all of those perfect and imperfect moments that you will happily carry with you forever.

Thank you for reading.

Crocodile diving off Banco Chinchorro, Mexico.