How to Take Pictures of Whales – Our Best Photography Tips for Whale Watching in Hervey Bay

Want to know how to take pictures of whales that’ll make your friends say “wow, you took that?” 

After 30+ years on these waters, we know exactly what works, and here’s your short answer: use a shutter speed of at least 1/1000th of a second, ISO 400-800, shoot in continuous mode, and be ready before the whale appears. 

Now, here are some camera settings (but made simple), direct from our photographer friends.

What Shutter Speed is Needed for Whale Photography?

Grab your camera, and set your shutter speed to 1/1000th of a second minimum – 1/2000th is even better. A breaching humpback happens in seconds, so you need that fast shutter to capture the action.

If you’re not comfortable with going fully manual, use Shutter Priority mode (S or Tv), set 1/1000th or faster and let your camera handle the rest.

Other key settings you’ll want to know about:

• ISO: 400-800 (push to 1600 if overcast)
• Aperture: f/5.6 to f/8
• Shooting Mode: Continuous/burst mode always

What Lens is Best to Use for Whale Photography?

A 70-200mm telephoto zoom is ideal for Hervey Bay’s close encounters. Make sure to zoom out when one of our playful whales approach the Spirit of Hervey Bay, and zoom in when they’re further away.

Got a longer telephoto lens in your camera stash (100-400mm)? Bring it for extra reach, though keep in mind that they’re a little trickier to keep steady on a moving boat.

Don’t have a telephoto at all? No need to worry, as we’ve seen some incredible shots using kit lenses when the whales have gotten up close to the boat. And wider environmental shots can have more impact, especially with the beautiful Hervey Bay in the background. 

No matter what lens you use, you’ll take plenty of shots worth framing!

Our Top Phone Photography Tips

Only bringing a phone? No problem! Most passengers use the cameras on their phones now, and they work brilliantly.

Here are some of our top tips when using your phone’s camera to capture the whales on their best behaviour:

• Use your native camera app
• Don’t use digital zoom – move closer or crop later
• Tap to focus on the whale immediately
• Use burst mode (hold the shutter button)
• Brace against the rail for stability
• Clean your lens – sea spray happens
• Hold on tight

The Best Positions to Take Brag-Worthy Shots on Our Boat

Our five incredible viewing decks give you options that other boats just don’t offer. The upper decks offer elevated views perfect for tail slapping, spy-hopping, and breaching shots. The mid-level decks offer eye-level perspectives that will make those whales look massive, and the lower deck near underwater windows offer a perspective like nothing else. Shoot through the glass to capture these majestic whales in their natural habitat – gliding beneath the ocean.

Pro tips: Move around, as different behaviours look better from different angles. And, if taking images from the underwater windows, make sure to press your lens against the glass to eliminate any reflections.

Anticipating the Whale Behaviours

Want to make sure that you are ready for *the* shot? Keep these behaviours in mind: 

• Before a breach: Whales swim faster just below the surface, so if you hear our crew shout “breach!” – make sure you’re ready immediately to get that shot
• Tail shots: If you see a whale arch its back deeply, then a tail shot is coming – start shooting
• Spy-hopping: This usually happens multiple times. Miss the first? Don’t worry – just be ready for the second
• Mugging: When whales approach and linger near the boat, this is your golden opportunity for close-ups of these playful animals – simply have your camera handy 

Also check out these quick tips to make sure that you get the most out of your experience:

• Timing: Our morning tours offer softer light and more active whales, also, cloudy days work really well as diffused light reduces harsh highlights
• GoPros: These are brilliant for waterproof wide angles so set your GoPro to video and grab stills later, or use burst mode. Always make sure you secure it with a wrist strap
• No flashes: Please don’t use a flash as this disturbs the whales and other passengers
• No drones: Drones are illegal to use near whales
• Remember: There is room for everyone, so please be mindful of other passengers and respectful to each other

The Most Important Tip

Our most important tip that we recommend for every experience? Put the camera down sometimes. 

Watching a mother whale guide her calf with your own eyes, hearing the blow, feeling the ocean spray against your skin- these sensory memories are just as valuable as photos. So, take your shots, then take a breath. Let yourself be present. 

Some of our crew’s favourite moments from the last 30+ years aren’t the ones they photographed – they’re the ones they just watched.

Check out our guide to whale watching spots on Fraser Island for more tips — or explore our K’gari Fraser Island tours if you want to combine your whale watching with a full island experience..

Your Photography Advantage

The Spirit of Hervey Bay makes whale photography easier. Our stable catamaran reduces camera shake, our five viewing decks provide multiple angles, our underwater windows offer unique perspectives, and our experienced crew will position the boat for your best shots. Plus, we guarantee whale sightings during the season.

Need inspiration? Browse our whale watching photo gallery to see what our passengers have captured.

So if you’re ready to capture some incredible whale photos, book your whale watching tour and bring your camera. Hervey Bay’s whales are waiting to give you an experience (and the shots) that you’ll treasure forever.

Pssst: The whale watching season runs from July 12 – October 31. Book now to avoid missing out!
Have questions before you go? Check our FAQs for everything you need to know.