Falkland Islands Wildlife Photography Workshop

December 2027

Immerse yourself in the life of penguins

A wildlife photographer's dream come true

Picture this: A quiet, white-sand beach in the South Atlantic at first light. The horizon warms with color as penguins stream from the colony toward the ocean, pausing at the water’s edge before launching into the surf. Gentoo and Magellanic penguins crisscross the sand, weaving paths between the tide line and the dunes.

This is a privilege few photographers ever experience.

In the Falkland Islands, you can photograph penguins and albatrosses at close range in truly wild settings. Colonies spread across remote beaches and headlands, giving you extraordinary access without the crowds that overwhelm most wildlife destinations.

But turning that access into powerful images requires more than showing up with a camera. It takes being in the right place at the right time, when behavior, light, and setting align. That’s why this workshop is built around locations chosen for their photographic potential, with the guidance to recognize and capture the moments others miss.

What you’ll experience:

  • Productive wildlife locations, selected for world-class photographic opportunities
  • Direct, in-field support from an award-winning wildlife photographer
  • A small group size for freedom and focus, often with no other humans in sight
  • Time to refine technique, build a competition-level portfolio, or push your creative style further

This workshop is a dedicated opportunity to create your strongest work yet, alongside a group that shares your passion for great photography.

Your Guide - Steffen Foerster

Over three decades of wildlife photography have taught me that unforgettable images don’t come from luck or gear alone. They come from truly connecting with your subjects, understanding place, and knowing how to anticipate the moment. With a portfolio of internationally recognized images created in the Falkland Islands and around the world, I’ll share the strategies and fieldcraft that turn fleeting encounters into award-winning photographs. My goal is to help you refine your vision and master the interplay of light, behavior, timing, and technology, so you can create your strongest work yet.

At-a-glance facts

  • Dates: Dec 04 - Dec 18, 2027
  • Group size: 7 photographers
  • Primary targets: King, Gentoo, Magellanic and Rockhopper Penguins; Black-browed Albatross; Elephant Seals; Sea Lions
  • Key locations: Sea Lion Island, Bleaker Island, Saunders Island, Volunteer Point
  • Award-winning instruction: Techniques backed by internationally recognized images I created at the very locations we will be visiting
  • All-around support: Extensive pre-trip planning and post-trip editing & image review included to get you from idea to a portfolio you can be proud of

Why not just Antarctica?

Many photographers spend $20–30k traveling to Antarctica only to find that penguin photography opportunities are tightly constrained. The Falklands deliver something different: similar iconic penguins, plus greater overall diversity, a milder climate, and the freedom to work at your own pace, day or night. What sets this Special Edition apart even further is our overnight stay at Volunteer Point, placing you beside the largest king penguin colony with the freedom to photograph at dawn, dusk, and even under the stars. That is something no Antarctic itinerary can match.

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All images on this page were created by your host on this itinerary

Locations

The locations for this workshop are selected to optimize the diversity and strength of your portfolio, with each offering unique photographic opportunities.

  • Black-browed Albatross at The Neck, Saunders Island

    Saunders Island - Multi-species paradise

    The second-largest offshore island combines stunning scenery with extraordinary wildlife diversity. An easily accessible black-browed albatross colony sits alongside king, Magellanic, rockhopper, and gentoo penguins, all within a short walk. Accommodation is basic, though perfectly positioned for round-the-clock access to the colonies.

  • Sea Lion Island - Important Bird Area

    One of the premier wildlife destinations in the Falklands, with no ground predators allowing even sensitive species to thrive. The beaches buzz with elephant seals (and some sea lions), while a large gentoo penguin colony lives right next door to our comfortable lodge. The island serves some of the best food you'll find in the Falklands.

  • Imperial Cormorant Portrait

    Bleaker Island - Diversity Hotspot

    Renowned for its diverse birdlife, and home to an impressive colony of imperial cormorants, large populations of gentoo and rockhopper penguins, giant petrels, endemic Cobb's wrens and much more. After a long day in the field you will unwind in a cozy house with spacious common areas, perfect for sharing stories and editing photos.

Ready to secure your spot?

Beyond penguins

While penguins are the stars, the supporting cast is equally captivating. Curious caracaras, tiny Cobb's wrens, and other Falklands specialists offer creative opportunities throughout our journey. I'll help you capture beautiful images of these species as we encounter them.

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Day-by-day schedule

Itinerary

Day 1 - Stanley

Arrive at Mt Pleasant. Transfer to Stanley (45 mins bus ride). Check in to Malvina House Hotel for two nights.

Days 2-5 - Saunders Island (3 nights)

Onward internal flight to Saunders Island. Transfer to The Neck cabin for two night's accommodation, then transfer to The Settlemt for the third night. Targets here are the black-browed albatross colonies with their chicks, king, rockhopper, gentoo and Magellanic penguins, Falkland flightless steamer ducks, striated caracaras, Falkland skuas and more.

Days 5-9 - Sea Lion Island (4 nights)

Onward internal flight to Sea Lion Island for four night's accommodation on a full board basis. Targets here include large colonies of Gentoo penguins with chicks in creches (kindergartens), penguins surfing the waves, rockhopper penguins battling the swells as they come ashore, elephant seals, striated caracaras, giant petrels, Magellanic snipes and other birdlife.

Days 9-13 - Bleaker Island (4 nights)

This island offers a diversity of habitats and species. Highlights here include sunrise shoots with rockhopper penguins heading out to sea, gentoo penguins marching over sorrel fields, a massive colony of imperial cormorants, a beach full of sea lions (and some elephant seals), and lots of birdlife in between, we will have plenty to keep us busy. A vehicle will be available to cover some longer distances on this quite large island.

Day 14 - Volunteer Point (Day Trip)

Day trip to Volunteer Point to photograph the largest king penguin colony in the Falklands. There are also lots of Magellanic and gentoo penguins with small chicks present, and possibly sea lions hunting along the beach. Depending on weather, we will do a very early departure for a sunrise shoot or a late departure and stay until sunset. Total time at Volunteer Point will be about 8 hours.

Day 15 - Departure

Shared bus transfer to Mt Pleaseant for departing LATAM flight.

  • King penguin swimming in shallow water

    Before you arrive

    In virtual meetings well before departure, we'll discuss your interests, experience, and goals. As a group, we'll dive into the photographic opportunities available, explore the natural history of our target species, and cover techniques to elevate your skills. These sessions also provide targeted equipment advice.

  • A photo of me in the field at Volunteer Point in the Falkland Islands taking photographs of the king penguin colony at sunset

    During the workshop

    We'll use downtime to review images, discuss creative opportunities, and plan our next shoots. You'll receive real-time feedback to refine your skills as we explore what works, what can improve, and dive into camera techniques, composition, and lighting. Participate as much or as little as you like.

  • After your return

    I'll assist with image selection and post-processing in up to three virtual sessions, empowering you to confidently present your best work. We'll cover editing techniques using Adobe Lightroom and other tools, plus discuss how to select and edit images for competitions if that interests you.

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  • Price

    • $14,900.00 USD (shared)
    • Single surcharge: $1,500.00 USD (private rooms not available in all locations)
  • Payment Terms

    • $3,000.00 USD non-refundable deposit (due at booking)
    • Full balance due by (payment plans available)
    Terms & Conditions 
  • Inclusions

    • Local transfers
    • Inter-island flights
    • Lodging
    • Meals
    • Tea/coffee/water
    • Guiding
    • Photography instruction
    • Image review
    • Pre-trip planning meetings
    • Post-trip meetings
  • Exclusions

    • International airfare
    • Visa fees (if applicable)
    • Departure tax
    • Personal insurances
    • Sodas, alcoholic beverages
    • Wifi cards
    • Tips for local services
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Common concerns & questions

FAQ

Do I need to be an expert photographer?

Not at all! This workshop is designed for anyone passionate about wildlife photography. While it's not a basic photography course, I'll provide guidance on techniques like exposure, shutter speed, framing, and positioning. As long as you're familiar with your camera's basic functions and ready to shoot outdoors for extended periods, you'll fit right in. My goal is to help you elevate your skills—just bring your enthusiasm and gear!

How close will I get to the wildlife?

Penguins, albatrosses, cormorants, caracaras and many other species have very little fear of humans who behave respectfully and keep a low profile. That said, we will generally keep a distance of about 6 m (20 ft) to avoid undue stress on the animals. Colony boundaries may be marked by rocks or signs by the landowners to limit human transgression. In rare instances, further restrictions may be implemented by local authorities or landowners if deemed necessary. Naturally, the birds themselves have no knowledge of these guidelines and will often walk right up to a human sitting quietly on the ground. Maintaining an adequate distance, however, is in the best interest of everyone involved.

What is the fitness requirement for this trip?

This is a trip into a remote part of the world with limited local infrastructure. You should be healthy enough to undertake such travel.

If you have any pre-existing conditions that could affect you (and by extension, the group), please consult with me beforehand if this trip is right for you.

The access to wildlife and our shooting locations never involves more than a short walk (a mile at most), and for areas where the distances are longer we will have cars to transport us (only applies to Bleaker Island).

Overall, this trip is suitable for people of any age and fitness level as long as you are mobile enough to walk over uneven and sometimes steep or slippery terrain and in potentially harsh weather conditions, with the occasional hill to climb.

What will the weather be like?

The Falkland Islands' summer offers varied conditions—perfect for photography. Expect daytime temperatures between 47°F and 56°F, with cooler nights and occasional windchill. Rain is always possible, so waterproof gear is essential. Overcast days provide soft, flattering light for wildlife shots, while dramatic storms can create striking scenes. We'll adjust our schedule to make the most of whatever weather comes our way.

Are there any risks?

As with any wildlife adventure, there are some inherent risks. The terrain includes cliffs and burrows to watch out for, and some animals, like sea lions and caracaras, can be protective of their space. I'll guide you on staying safe while respecting the wildlife, and we'll always prioritize your well-being in this remote location.

What's a typical day like?

Our days revolve around the best light and wildlife activity:

  • Early mornings: Head out pre-dawn to capture sunrise magic.
  • Midday: Break for meals, rest, and image reviews.
  • Afternoons & evenings: Explore again, hopefully ending with a stunning sunset shoot.

Each day is flexible, adapting to weather and group interests, ensuring the best opportunities for unique shots.

Expect to be on your feet (and bums, and bellies) for many hours each day, but you are always free to rest nearby or return to the nearby lodge or cabin, if you want.

Will I have to share a room?

Yes, standard accommodation is in shared double rooms in all locations except Saunders Island, where we will be staying in a cabin right next to the penguin and albatross colonies. The cabin has two rooms with 4 bunk beds, and we will make every effort to divide participants between these two rooms in the most suitable way possible. The location more than makes up for the small discomfort introduced by a more crowded living arrangement. For a surcharge, single occupancy may be available for your stays in Stanley and Sea Lion Island. Early booking is essential if you'd like this option. At all locations, the final group composition will influence room assignments, so I ask for your flexibility in this regard.

Can I bring a non-photographer companion?

Yes, as long as they're comfortable with a photography-focused itinerary. They'll need to meet basic physical requirements and adhere to group guidelines to ensure a smooth experience for everyone.

Will my dietary restrictions be accommodated?

Yes, most dietary needs can be accommodated. Our hosts are experienced with international guests and can adapt meals to suit various requirements. Please let me know any dietary restrictions when you book, and if we cannot meet them, your deposit will be fully refunded

What insurance do I need?

You need medical evacuation insurance coverage of at least $2,000,000 (yes, that is two million US$) to enter the country. This is mandated by the Falkland Island Government. I can advise on insurance carriers meeting this requirement.

I strongly recommend that you purchase trip cancellation insurance that covers the entirety of your trip cost in case of unexpected events, and that you consider a "cancel for any reason" coverage if it is available in your location. Read the fine print to understand exactly what is and is not covered or consult an insurance agent. These coverages often come as part of comprehensive travel insurance packages. Comparison of costs and coverage details can be done on sites like squaremouth.com and many others.

Besides your medical evacuation insurance, you will also need regular medical travel insurance that covers medical expenses besides evacuation. Note that there are time limits for coverage of pre-existing conditions, so be sure to check policies for the fine print. Pre-existing condition coverage often requires purchasing the insurance within 7 or 14 days after your first payment.

Will there be cell phone reception and internet access?

Most international cellular plans do not roam in the Falkland Islands, so you will likely not have any reception anywhere. However, Wi-Fi is available in most accommodations via prepaid cards (~£5 for 50 minutes) that can be purchased locally.

Ready to Create Your Falkland Islands Portfolio?

If you’ve ever dreamed of building a Falklands portfolio, this is your chance.

To join, please complete the form below to request a booking. I will confirm availability and email you with next steps to secure your spot, typically within 24-48 hours.

Availability

I will begin accepting deposits for this itinerary in January 2026.

If you are considering joining us, I recommend that you secure your spot on the waitlist today by filling the form below. Spots will be given out in the order requests were received.

Have Questions?

After submitting the form, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a link to schedule a consultation call with me. It’s the perfect way to go over details and confirm this workshop is a great fit.