Trekabout Photography Workshops - Twelve Day Kimberley Wildnerness Adventure Tour and Workshop with Pam Jennings and Mark Rayner
Workshops, Tours, Adventures with Accredited Professional Photographer Mark Rayner and the Dream Team
with Pamela Jennings and Mark Rayner
Creating Adventure through Photography
Where : The Kimberley, North West Australia
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The Kimberley is one of the last true wilderness areas on Earth! If you are a passionate landscape photographer with a love of birds and adventure then this is for you.
Let your senses indulge the breathtaking wonder of this incredible photographer’s paradise.
Imagine 14 days of photographic discovery in the Kimberley in far north Western Australia from the comfort of an air-conditioned 4WD, where we will adventure off-road to photograph wildlife and ancient landscapes.
Departing Broome we explore the Ord River, Purnululu World Heritage Area (where we will capture some amazing astro shots over the Bungle Bungles) El Questro Wilderness Park, Home Valley, Cockburn Ranges, Wyndham and Parry Lagoon Nature Reserve, the Gibb River Road gorges, Windjana Gorge and Tunnel Creek, Derby and finishing in Kununurra. We will be taking you to the best photographic locations at the best time of day and we will only have 6 guests to share 2 tutors. This will ensure your comfort (window seat always when travelling) and unlimited access to photography guidance.
This is a fully accommodated 14 day experience (not easy to achieve on the remote Gibb River Road) including private river camps, cattle station stays, eco lodges, world heritage areas, outback bird photography locations, wildlife reserves and wetlands. Travel by 4WD to outback locations, walk into El Questro gorge, and soak in a Kimberley hot spring, visit nature reserves and wetlands and walk in a world heritage park. Photograph the domes of the Bungle Bungles under the Milky Way and be part of our Ord River wildlife photography cruise in search of crocodiles and birdlife. We offer an optional helicopter flight over the Bungle Bungles during our stay.
Come and join Pamela Jennings and Mark Rayner for an amazing 14 day Photographic 4WD Journey through the Kimberley. We will photograph amazing landscapes and its wildlife and show you how to take amazing milky-way shots.
You will enjoy a wide range of photographic topics and locations with our small group of like-minded photographers while we have the time of our lives in the Kimberley. And don't forget Pam is a local and has spent many years photographing and exploring the Kimberley and would love to share her beautiful Kimberley with you.
When you tick off what's on top of your bucket list, it becomes a life changing moment. It was amazing to do so with the company and expertise of Mark Rayner and the awesome fellow photographers along the way.
From Day one, being able to photograph the amazing Boab trees to continuously being in awe the next few days with millions of years old untouched rock formations, riverbanks filled with wildlife like saltwater crocodiles and immense bird life to the simple pleasures of cruising rivers at sunset.
However, what is the Kimberley without the Bungle Bungles!! If going to the Kimberley is the opportunity of a lifetime for you, then you wouldn't want to miss out on flying on top of the Bungle Bungles because that, my fellow photographers, is an experience out of this world (literally).
You won't want to have your feet back on the ground I promise...
Finish relaxing on the shores of famous Cable Beach with sunsets and camels...
I have known Mark now for over two years and have participated in many of his workshops. What I found out about Mark is his consistent willingness to assist you always with a smile. No questions big or small are an issue for him.
The workshops are professionally organised with often exclusive places to visit which are sometimes hard to get too unless you have built connections with the locals.
I wish you the best time of your life.
A fellow Trekkie
Dorianne McGillivray
Thank you Dorianne
If you want to experience a true Kimberley adventure then go on this tour!
Pamela Jennings and Mark Rayner did an excellent job of guiding and oranising the tour. From the beauty of the gorges on El Questro Pastoral Lease, to the wildlife along the Ord River and the spectacle of the Bungle Bungles in Purnululu National park you won't be disappointed.
We did all of the above and more, ably instructed by Pam and Mark in the technical and composition side of photography.
Being such a small group of only six adventurers, we had no problems in getting a very quick answer to any issues we might have had taking photos.
The days seemed to pass too quickly as there was so much to see and do. I personally love the Kimberley and this was my second time there but my first on an organised photography tour.
I give Pam and Mark a five star rating for this tour so if you are remotely interested in doing it, if you are interested in wildlife, amazing landscapes, beautiful sunsets, experiencing the beauty of the Kimberley and an insight into Aboriginal culture - go ahead, do it!!
Chris Head
Perth
Thank you Chris.
Just another(!) email to thank you and your team for such a fantastic holiday. I learned a lot about my equipment from Mark and Pam, but more importantly, I learned how to take better photos, regardless of the gear.
It was almost uncanny how Mark or Pam would make this comment about how to approach a particular shoot and make it all sound so matter-of-fact, when I am, like, “Why didn’t I think of that?”
Plus their enthusiasm for photography and down-to-earth way of answering what I am sure sounded like stupid questions.
If people are reading this and wondering whether to sign up for a workshop or tour - DO IT!! Worth every cent…pure gold.
I know there was a lot of last-minute adjustments to accommodation and other issues, that we, as guests, did not know about. So, thanx. Can I particularly thank Ken, our extra driver. I know he made a particular sacrifice to agree to driving our sorry butts around the Kimberley in the dry.
If anyone reading does this tour in the future, do yourselves a favour and take both the helicopter rides (The Bungles and the Wyndham mud flats). They were both, in their different ways, totally awesome. I had never been on a helicopter before this tour, and was completely blown away both times!
Tony Day
Brisbane
Thank you Tony.
Day-to-Day Program
Your Kimberley adventure begins in the vibrant outback town of Kununurra. After settling into your accommodation from 2:00pm, we gather at 4:00pm for our first unforgettable photography experience.
Capture the magic of sunset across stunning Lake Kununurra, where glowing skies reflect across tranquil waters provide the perfect introduction to the Kimberley’s natural beauty.
DAY 2 – 20 July - Into the Bungles Bungles | APT Wilderness Lodge
Today we journey south along the iconic Great Northern Highway, travelling deep into the heart of the Kimberley. Vast landscapes, ancient ranges, and endless outback scenery set the tone for the adventure ahead.
Leaving the highway, we venture along a rugged 4WD track into the World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park. As we arrive, the spectacular Bungle Bungle Range greets us in the setting sun — a photographer’s dream.
We spend the next two nights immersed in wilderness luxury at our safari camp, located just minutes from the park’s most breathtaking photographic locations. Optional astrophotography session showcases the Kimberley’s brilliantly clear night skies
DAY 3 – 21 July - Exploring the Domes and Cathedral Gorge
We begin before sunrise to capture the magical blue hour light across Piccaninny Creek, where winding creek beds create stunning leading lines.
We then venture into the awe-inspiring Cathedral Gorge, a natural amphitheatre offering incredible opportunities for panoramic and wide-angle photography.
Mid-morning, guests have an optional scenic helicopter flight over the famous domes — an unforgettable aerial perspective of this extraordinary landscape.
After a relaxing midday break, we return for an incredible sunset shoot across the iconic beehive domes.
Day 4 – 22 July - Wildlife and Wetlands | Ord River Private Camp
This morning we set out to explore the northern section of the massif, including the remarkable Echidna Chasm. This spectacular, narrow gorge features striking colour variations that change throughout the day as sunlight beams into the towering rock walls. Livistona palms sway high above, framed by dramatic 200-metre ridges.
After leaving the national park, we travel north toward our private accommodation, affectionately known as the “Fish Camp.” As evening approaches, we begin our search for the perfect boab tree silhouette, setting the scene for a stunning Kimberley sunset photography session.
This morning, half the group embarks on an early river expedition along the magnificent Ord River aboard purpose-built photography dinghies. This unique experience offers exceptional opportunities to capture abundant birdlife, spectacular river scenery, and the rare chance to photograph both freshwater and saltwater crocodiles coexisting in their natural environment.
The remaining guests can enjoy a relaxed morning, either taking time to rest or photographing the diverse birdlife found within the peaceful surrounds of our accommodation.
In the afternoon, we travel north to the historic port town of Wyndham. From the renowned Five Rivers Lookout, take in breathtaking panoramic views across one of Australia’s most remarkable and expansive river systems.
Day 6 – 24 July - Gibb River Road to Home Valley Station
This morning, the remaining half of the group embarks on an early river expedition along the magnificent Ord River aboard purpose-built photography dinghies, enjoying further opportunities to capture the region’s prolific birdlife, striking river landscapes, and unique wildlife encounters.
Guests who explored the river the previous day can enjoy a relaxed morning, with time to rest or photograph the diverse birdlife found within the peaceful surrounds of our accommodation.
Later in the morning, we begin our journey along the legendary Gibb River Road — a true Kimberley icon. Travelling through rugged and remote landscape, we arrive at Home Valley Station, located near the Pentecost River and the dramatic Cockburn Range. This spectacular setting provides the perfect backdrop as we prepare for an unforgettable sunset photography session, capturing one of the Kimberley’s most iconic landscapes.
Today offers incredible opportunities to explore this historic cattle station, photographing river systems, birdlife, working station landscapes, and expansive Kimberley vistas. We finish the day with another stunning sunset session.
Continuing along the iconic Gibb River Road, we journey deeper into the Kimberley’s remote region. Along the way, we stop at the Gibb River crossing, where a large waterhole framed by towering paperbark trees and pandanus palms offers the perfect opportunity for a refreshing swim and some nature photography.
Our destination for the night is Mt Elizabeth Station, where we enjoy an authentic outback station experience surrounded by Kimberley landscapes. The station provides a unique setting for photography, with striking outback scenery, rustic station structures, and the golden light of sunset creating perfect compositions.
We set off early this morning for another day along the Gibb River Road, crossing creeks and rivers and stopping to photograph birds and wildlife along the way. Travelling through classic cattle country, we may encounter cattle mustering and the impressive sight of large road trains navigating the rugged landscape.
Today we reach one of the Kimberley’s true highlights — Bell Gorge and the magnificent Bell Falls. The cascading waterfalls and layered rock formations provide extraordinary opportunities for photography, offering dramatic compositions at every turn.
Tonight, we enjoy the exclusive APT Bell Gorge Wilderness Lodge experience, complete with exceptional hospitality and dinner under a blanket of Kimberley stars.
Day 10 –28 July - Mt Hart Wilderness Lodge
We journey along the dusty tracks of the Gibb River Road to the Mount Barnett Roadhouse, a perfect stop for fuel and a refreshing ice cream. From here, we continue onward to Mt Hart Wilderness Lodge. Once a working cattle station, Mt Hart is now part of the Wunaamin Miliwundi Conservation Park, offering a serene and rugged Kimberley setting.
The day is filled with photography opportunities — from capturing the region’s vibrant birdlife to exploring nearby gorges and swimming in crystal-clear waterholes. Relaxed, immersive, and inspiring, this remote location provides the perfect backdrop for both landscape and nature photography.
Day 11 – 29 July - Exploring Mt Hart
Today is dedicated to further exploration of the spectacular Mt Hart region. Photograph dramatic landscapes, diverse birdlife, and hidden gorges while taking time to refine your techniques, review images, or simply soak in the Kimberley’s captivating beauty.
For a truly unique perspective, there is also the opportunity to take a scenic photography flight in a helicopter, capturing the winding rivers, cascading waterfalls, and rugged gorges from above — an unforgettable way to see and photograph the Kimberley’s extraordinary scenery.
Day 12 – 30 July - Windjana Gorge and Derby | Birdwood Downs
This morning we continue along the Gibb River Road toward Windjana Gorge. The Lennard River winds through the Napier Range — part of an ancient Devonian limestone reef system — forming the impressive 3.5-kilometre-long gorge. Here, the world’s friendliest freshwater crocodiles can often be seen, providing unique photographic opportunities.
Later, there is the chance for an optional helicopter flight over Derby, offering spectacular aerial perspectives of the tidal flats and the iconic tidal trees — a truly memorable way to capture this distinctive Kimberley landscape.
We overnight at Birdwood Downs, a unique and final stop along the Gibb River Road. Surrounded by birds and iconic boab trees, it’s the perfect setting for our last night on this remarkable route.
Day 13- 31 July Broome Bird Observatory (BBO)
If time didn’t allow yesterday, there is the opportunity for an optional helicopter flight over the tidal flats of Derby this morning, offering stunning aerial views of the iconic tidal trees and unique Kimberley landscapes.
Afterwards, we travel across the floodplains of the Fitzroy River, arriving at the renowned Broome Bird Observatory — a globally significant sanctuary for migratory shorebirds, located just 40 kilometres from Broome. Situated on the shores of Roebuck Bay, this tranquil and extraordinary location provides exceptional opportunities for bird and coastal photography. We stay overnight at the observatory, immersed in its peaceful surroundings.
Day 14 – 1 August - Broome and Tour conclusion
Our final morning begins with an early bird photography session across the Roebuck Plains, searching for the elusive Yellow Chat in its natural habitat. Afterwards, we travel into Broome, where our extraordinary Kimberley photography expedition concludes. Drop-off is by 12 noon, giving you plenty of time to catch your afternoon flight home.
About Pamela Jennings:
Pamela is a professional photographer who specialises in wildlife and wilderness photography of remote Australia.
Based in Broome Western Australia, Pamela runs a selection of extended photography tours complimented by short Broome based workshops. She loves nothing better than jumping into the 4WD and taking people photographing and exploring the wilderness of the Kimberley.
Pamela’s images have been highly awarded in professional photography events including the International Pano Awards. She is a member of the Australian Institute of Professional Photographers. (AIPP)
Her first solo exhibition was an outdoor installation on 2.5 metre cubes in Darling Harbour Sydney, during May 2015 as part of the HeadOn Photo Festival 2015.
She was recently named 2017 AIPP WESTERN AUSTRALIAN SCIENCE WILDLIFE AND WILD PLACES PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR.
This Kimberley photo safari will fill up very quickly. Limited to a maximum of 6 photographers with 2 tutors you are assured of comfort (window seat always when travelling) and personal access to photography guidance.
Please get in quick and book your spot today.
Cost: $ 11,400.00 per person based on Double Occupancy
$1800 single supplement
Includes :
- Accommodation for 13 nights starting in Kununurra ending in Broome travelling along the Gibb River Road.
- All Meals
- Transportation in air-conditioned 4x4 (3 guests per vehicle, all with window seats)
- Entrance fees to all Parks
- Wildlife Cruise on the Ord River
Exclusions :
- Airfares to/ from Kununurra and Broome
- All incidental personal items.
- Optional helicopter flights at Derby, Mount Hart and Bungle Bungles
- Alcohol, soft drinks and other beverages not included in meals
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory and remains your responsibility.
This workshop is limited at 6 participants with 2 tutors to ensure a high level of comfort and a high student/tutor ratio.
The workshop requires a minimum 5 bookings to proceed
A $1500.00 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your position.
(please note a 3.2% handling fee applies to credit card payments)
Final payment must be paid 60 days prior to the workshop.
To book please call Mark on 0459 221678 or email
