DUE TO HIGH DEMAND, ADDITIONAL JULY DATES ADDED!
after selling out in 2024, we're delighted to release our 2025 dates!
Isle of Mull: Otter Photography Workshop
The Isle of Mull is the UKs undisputed wildlife hotspot. White-tailed eagles soaring high above the lochs, otters frolicking along the shorelines, puffins on the surrounding islands, and red deer aplenty means that no two days are ever the same.
This photographic workshop will explore Mull’s wild beauty during spring, aiming to share close encounters (and create memorable photography) with otters, watching white-tailed eagles dive for their catch, observing Atlantic puffins building their nests, and so much more.
As well adventuring along Mull’s shore in search of otters, we’ll also be taking a boat trip to the Treshnish Isles for a seabird extravaganza! During this trip you’ll get up close and personal with the iconic puffin, as well as a plethora of seabirds including guillemots, razorbills, shags, cormorants and more! Lastly, we'll also be heading out with Mull Charters to watch white-tailed eagles hunting for fish in Mull's infamous Loch na Keal.
The maximum group size is just 2 people (or 3 if booked as a group). By keeping group sizes small, we’ll ensure wildlife isn’t disturbed — nature always comes first.
The itinerary
Isle of Mull:
Photographic Workshop
Day 1
You’ll need to be in Craignure by early afternoon on your arrival day. We’ll be waiting at the ferry terminal to welcome you to Mull. After introductions, we'll drive to your accommodation to drop off your bags and belongings, grab a bite to eat and then gear up for our first exploratory drive mid-afternoon. We'll get you familiar with Mull’s geography, some familiar signs to look out for, plus some introductory fieldcraft. After a busy first day, we’ll head back to your home for the week so you can rest up in preparation for our first full day in the morning.
Day 2
Your first full day on Mull! The start time will vary each day depending on the tides and weather conditions, we'll make a plan as a group the night before. Usually we'll head out after breakfast and stay out the whole day, enjoying glimpses of the amazing wildlife that lives on Mull. Expect otters, white-tailed eagles, golden eagles, hen harriers, buzzards, short-eared owls, red deer, fallow deer, common seals, grey seals, cetaceans, divers, mergansers, and more! The day will usually last around 10 hours so don't forget to bring your packed lunch! We'll provide hot drinks and sweet treats throughout the day.
Days 3-5
As Day 2 for the majority. We’ll also be taking a boat trip to the Treshnish Isles to photograph puffins and a trip with Mull Charters to watch the queen of the sky (the white-tailed eagle) up close and personal. For both boat trips, we can’t affix a guaranteed day as it’s weather dependent, so we’ll be flexible with Mother Nature’s intentions!
Day 6
On your final morning, you'll head to the ferry terminal in time for your mid-morning sailing back to Oban. Then it’s a big farewell to Mull and we can guarantee you’ll already be planning your return!
tailored photography tuition
Photographic Workshop
This trip is designed for photographers of all abilities. We'll be on hand to help at all times, whether that’s getting to grip with manual settings or experimenting with more advanced photography techniques. We'll tailor the photography portion of the trip to your needs.
In terms of equipment, you will need a DSLR / Mirrorless body with a long lens — 400 mm and above is perfect for otter photography. Alongside that, some wider-angle lenses such as the 70-200 mm will be ideal for the white-tailed eagles. If you don’t already own the kit, there are plenty of reputable lens shops that rent out photography equipment for just such occasion and we're happy to recommend a local outfitter in your country of residence.
Meet Lara & George
Your Workshop Guides
Lara Jackson
George Benjamin
Lara is a conservation biologist, award-winning wildlife photographer, Nikon Creator and Ambassador for Save The Rhino. Her work has taken her around the world and she has conducted numerous cutting-edge research projects with several critically endangered species. Combining her scientific background with her love for photography and story-telling, Lara's work has received international recognition in competitions such as Wildlife Photographer of the Year.
George is a UK-based wildlife photographer and photographic guide, spending most of his time in East Africa and beyond. His work has taken him from the rainforests of the Congo Basin, through to the northern climes of Canada photographing polar bears on foot. Following a brief stint as a creative in advertising, he has won a number of wildlife photography awards, as well as being widely published both nationally and internationally in prestigious publications.
The nitty gritty
Important Info
2025 Dates
5th May - 10th May (SOLD OUT)
12th May - 17th May (SOLD OUT)
19th May - 24th May (SOLD OUT)
26th May - 31st May (SOLD OUT)
16th June - 21st June (SOLD OUT)
23rd June - 28th June (SOLD OUT)
30th June - 5th July (SOLD OUT)
7th July - 12 July (2 spaces available)
14th July - 19th July (1 space available)
21st July - 26th July (2 spaces available)
PLEASE ENQUIRE FOR AVAILABILITY:
*If there is enough interest, we will be happy to add additional dates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if the wildlife doesn't show up during our workshop?
Living on the Isle of Mull, Lara & George have amassed a wealth of local wildlife knowledge and they know the best places to find and photograph otters. The beauty of booking onto a long workshop is that you're maximising your chance to experience an amazing wildlife encounter!
How fit do I need to be for a workshop?
Quite fit and agile. We won’t be hiking miles and miles but when we do walk, it’ll be across tricky terrain. Some of the tidal flats are rocky and extremely slippery. Otter fieldcraft requires equal measures of stealth and agility — so long as you’re ready for some quick dashes, you’ll be all good! Please convey any fitness or mobility concerns to Lara & George ASAP.
What will the weather be like? What shall I bring?
Put simply: very Scottish. Expect the weather to be highly unpredictable. It’s not unreasonable to expect sunshine, rain, hail, and snow in a single day... seriously. Once booked, Lara and George will be in touch with a list of what to bring on your workshop. This will cover clothing suggestions, as well as the camera equipment you may need for otter photography.
Do you organise accommodation on Mull?
Yes! You've booked onto our Spring-time Magical Mull Workshop meaning this is styled more like a package holiday. Your accommodation, the two boat trips, guidance and travel on Mull is included in the cost of the workshop. Check out the 'nitty gritty' section above for more information on what's included and what's not.
Do you offer shorter workshops on Mull?
Yes, Lara and George also offer two day otter photography workshops on Mull -- these are available throughout the year. Please head to our 'Workshops' page for more information. It is recommended that you book for a minimum of 2 days to maximise your chances of seeing some awesome wildlife.
Yay! You're convinced!
Secure Your Spot!
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