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AU NZ

Events, photo walks, talks from the masters, in-depth workshops. Expand your horizons with one of our many events across Australia.

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Events, photo walks, talks from the masters, in-depth workshops. Expand your horizons with one of our many events across Australia.

Starting Never Ends is the one place for all Sony camera mini-sites. Learn about all new Sony camera products in a fun interactive way.

AU NZ
Fiona Wardle
-
Advocate

Dolphin Photography Workshop
Simon Pierce, Fiona Wardle
Image: Alpha 9 II (A9M2)
  • 100mm
  • ƒ/4.5
  • 1/1250s
  • ISO 400
Alpha 9 II (A9M2)
Full Frame E-Mount FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS
Fiona Wardle
-
Advocate
Dolphin Photography Workshop
Simon Pierce, Fiona Wardle
Image: Alpha 7R II (A7RM2)
  • 20mm
  • ƒ/5
  • 1/800s
  • ISO 800
Alpha 7R II (A7RM2)
Vario-Tessar T* Full Frame E-Mount FE 16-35mm F4 ZA OSS Lens
Fiona Wardle
-
Advocate
Dolphin Photography Workshop
Simon Pierce, Fiona Wardle
Image: Alpha 9 II (A9M2)
  • 238mm
  • ƒ/6.3
  • 1/1600s
  • ISO 250
Alpha 9 II (A9M2)
Full Frame E-Mount FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS
Swim with the playful dusky dolphins of Kaikoura!

About the event

Join Sony Digital Imaging Advocates Fiona Wardle and Simon Pierce for an incredible wildlife photography experience!

We’ve teamed up with Dolphin Encounter Kaikōura to give you the oppotunity to photograph wild dusky dolphins in their natural habitat.

Fiona and Simon will be on hand throughout the workshop to provide photography tips and guidance. All levels of experience are welcome, whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just starting out with wildlife/underwater photography.

Please note: A good level of water confidence is essential. You’ll also need to bring and use your own underwater-capable camera (such as an action camera or your own camera housing).

Techniques covered

  • Underwater wide-angle wildlife photography 
  • Tracking and photographing fast-moving seals
  • Composition and lighting tips
  • Camera set up and workflow
  • Topside wildlife photography

What to bring

  • Your own underwater-capable camera (action camera and/or housing setup) 
  • Swimsuit and towel (you can bring your own snorkelling gear if you desire but this will be provided by Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura)
  • Warm clothes 
  • A sense of adventure and love for the ocean
  • Topside camera to photograph the dolphins from the boat after the swim 

Event FAQs (For general FAQs, please visit the Frequently Asked Questions page)

The minimum age for this event is 8 years old. If you are booking with children read Encounter Kaikoura's child policy for dolphin swims prior to booking. This can be found on their website.
For the dolphin swim you’ll need to bring and use your own underwater-capable camera.
No meals will be provided, but Encounter Kaikoura has a cafe to enjoy a breakfast at your own leisure after the swim.
Bring layers of clothing to keep warm after the swim. Please check the marine forecast.
There's plenty of parking at and around Encounter Kaikoura on The Esplanade. We'll take a bus to the boat from there.
A dolphin swim with Encounter Kaikoura and photography guidance from your hosts.
Suitable for all levels Nature / wildlife Underwater
Sun 18 Jan 2026, 5:30AM - 9:00AM (UTC+13) Auckland, Wellington
Suitable for all levels
NZ$245 per/person    
96 Esplanade, Kaikōura Canterbury Region 7300
Please meet at reception
2026 Alpha Awards Photo Competition

2026 Alpha Awards Photo Competition

2026 marks the eleventh year of the Alpha Awards celebrating the greatest images from across Australia and New Zealand captured on Sony Alpha cameras and lenses, giving you the chance to share in over $62,000 (AUD) worth of Sony digital imaging gear. 

Terms and conditions apply.*
Enter now
Event capacity: 6