We landed mid-morning after spending time cruising the bay, photographing the icebergs against the stunning backdrop. As we came towards the beach a bunch of swimming Gentoo penguins came over to the Zodiac to say hi. I always love Gentoos, they are always friendly and generally do something to raise a smile on even the darkest day. Excitedly we clambered off the Zodiac and the swimmers came ashore right next to us and just stood there observing our antics, occasionally waving their flippers. I wasted no time getting my camera out, it was very very dark so I attached a flash “off-camera” to light the penguins against the dark background. I attached a diffuser to the flash as well as I didn’t want to cause them any stress with the flash, it’s always the best policy to be careful when using flash with wildlife. I laid down and crawled unto the closest penguin, slowly inching forward until I was a few feet away. The penguin observed me and was joined by a few more, edging forward gingerly towards this strange apparition on the ground in front of them. I made slow movements and took my time taking my shots, as I was watching for any adverse reaction with the flash (I had the power turned right down). 

I shot with a wide angle as I wanted to show them in the foreground of the stunning habitat, as they moved around then so did I, which gave me some great angles on the light. I’m actually glad that the light was dark and moody as it would have looked awful in sunlight, I think too many photographers think great pictures are only taken in sunlight which is clearly untrue.

I hope that you enjoyed this blog and my wonderful encounter with some friendly Gentoos. The techniques that you see here will be expanded upon in great detail by Andrew James and myself during our exclusive Antarctic cruise with Natural World Safaris. As photographers you will learn a lot on this trip and will be encouraged to try new techniques and expand your photography.