Falkland Islands - December 2027

December 4–18, 2027

Falkland Islands

Wildlife Photography Workshop

Limited to 7 participants

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.

At a Glance

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 refined at the very locations we'll visit, backed by internationally awarded images

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

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.

Your guide

Awards & Recognition

Bird Photographer of the Year

Bird Photographer of the Year

Gold Award

Bird Portraits

2025

National Wildlife Photo Contest

National Wildlife Photo Contest

Winner

Baby Animals

2025

Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year

Nature Photographer of the Year

Runner-up

Threatened Species

2025

North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA) Showcase

NANPA Showcase Competition

Best in Category

Macro, Micro & All Other

2025

Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest

Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest

Finalist

Natural World

2024

Share the View International Nature Photography Contest

Share the View Nature Photography Contest

Winner

Migratory Birds

2023

The Greatest Wildlife Photographer - Kenya

The Greatest Wildlife Photographer - Kenya

Shortlisted

2025

Bird Photographer of the Year

Bird Photographer of the Year

Bronze Award

Birds in the Environment

2025

View all awards →

The Experience

Gallery

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Where You'll Go

Locations

Swipe or use arrows

Why not just Antarctica?

Many photographers spend $20,000 and more on a dedicated photography expedition 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 the subjects at your own pace, day or night. That is something no Antarctic itinerary can match.

Itinerary

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.

Setting you up for success

Before you arrive

Before you arrive

Starting during the booking process, we'll discuss your interests, experience, and goals. In group virtual sessions well before departure, we dive into photographic opportunities, the natural history of our target species, and techniques to elevate your skills. Sessions also cover gear, locations, and logistics.

During the workshop

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

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.

In the Field

In the Middle of It

Days built around patient field time, close observation, and the kind of wildlife encounters that stay with you.

Swipe or use arrows

Participant Gallery

Images by Past Participants

What Participants Say

In Their Words

...just unprecedented. I've been on wildlife photography workshops around the world and nothing comes close to this level of preparation and trip support.

Melissa T. Port St. Lucie, Florida, January 2026

Thank you for an amazing time in the Falklands. I found your help during the trip invaluable and really enjoyed the different situations that we got to photograph.

Elizabeth-ann K. Leigh-on-Sea, U.K., January 2026

Other leaders wait for you to ask. You taught constantly, I never once felt like I was bothering you. I learned so much... Thank you for the opportunity to be in this special group!

Liwen T. Florida, January 2026
Investment

Pricing & What's Included

Per Person

$15,900

double occupancy

+$1,000 single supplement

Deposit$3,500
Balance due2027-04-01

What’s Included

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

Not Included

  • International airfare
  • Visa fees (if applicable)
  • Departure tax
  • Personal insurance
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Tips for local services

Key cancellation and booking terms: Non-refundable deposit. Cancellation fees increase as departure approaches, and the full workshop fee becomes non-refundable less than 60 days before departure. You may request a transfer to an approved replacement participant. See the key cancellation and booking terms below. View details

Essential Preparation

What You’ll Need

Insurance Requirements

Medical evacuation insurance of at least $2,000,000 USD is required by the Falkland Islands Government. I can advise you on providers that cover this amount. You will also need standard medical travel insurance, including pre-existing condition coverage; check policy deadlines (typically 7–14 days after first payment). Trip cancellation and "cancel for any reason" coverage are strongly recommended. Sites like squaremouth.com allow you to compare plans.

Fitness Level

This trip is suitable for any age and fitness level. Access to wildlife and shooting locations involves short walks over uneven, occasionally steep or slippery terrain in potentially harsh weather. Individual excursions are generally under two miles from base, though daily activities can add up; expect to be on your feet most of the day. Where distances are longer, transport is provided. If you have a pre-existing condition that could affect group travel, please reach out before booking.

Permits & Entry

No visa required for U.S. and British citizens. No special permits are needed. An exit tax is payable on departure. For entry requirements specific to your country of origin, check with the Falkland Islands Government or your nearest consulate.

Immunizations

There are no required immunizations for entering the Falkland Islands.

Frequently Asked

FAQ

Ready to Create Your Falkland Islands Portfolio?

If you’ve ever dreamed of building a Falklands portfolio at the highest level, 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.

Step 1 of 2

Start Your Application

Apply for This Workshop

Applications are reviewed within 48 hours. Limited to 7 participants.

Before You Book

Cancellation & Booking Terms

Key cancellation and booking terms before you inquire. Price, deposit amount, and final payment timing are shown above in the pricing section.

Cancellation schedule

180 or more days before departure

Cancellation fee equals the non-refundable deposit. All amounts paid beyond that are refunded, less applicable bank or transfer fees.

120 to 179 days before departure

Cancellation fee is 40% of the total workshop fee. The remaining 60% of amounts paid is refunded, less applicable bank or transfer fees.

90 to 119 days before departure

Cancellation fee is 50% of the total workshop fee. The remaining 50% of amounts paid is refunded, less applicable bank or transfer fees.

60 to 89 days before departure

Cancellation fee is 70% of the total workshop fee. The remaining 30% of amounts paid is refunded, less applicable bank or transfer fees.

Less than 60 days before departure

No refund. One hundred percent of the workshop fee is forfeited.

Deposit policy

The deposit shown above is non-refundable.

Replacement / Transfer Policy

You may request to transfer your place to an approved replacement participant. If the replacement participant completes payment in full, amounts paid above the non-refundable deposit are refunded, less applicable fees.

Full participant agreement terms are reviewed during booking and signed before a reservation is completed.

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