Join Ken Wright and Gail Stent for an inspiring coastal photography workshop based in Whangamatā, on the stunning Coromandel Peninsula — one of New Zealand’s most visually rich and dynamic landscapes. With wild coastlines, sculpted rock formations, expansive beaches, and ever-changing light, this region provides the perfect setting to explore both powerful seascapes and refined minimalism.
Bringing two distinct creative approaches, Ken and Gail will guide you through advanced techniques for capturing dynamic and minimalistic coastal imagery. You’ll learn how to harness Neutral Density (ND) filters to create long exposures that transform moving water and skies into something fluid and artistic, while mastering HDR techniques to handle complex lighting with precision.
This workshop goes beyond technical instruction — it’s about learning to see differently. You’ll simplify your compositions, explore the use of negative space, and begin creating images that convey mood, movement, and emotion.
Gail will share her signature minimalist approach, helping you create timeless, elegant images through simplicity, long exposure, and thoughtful composition. Ken will focus on capturing the energy and power of the ocean, teaching you how to build bold compositions that convey movement and impact as waves meet the shoreline.
Based in Whangamatā, the Coromandel Peninsula offers an extraordinary variety of coastal landscapes within easy reach. We will photograph locations showcasing the full diversity of the coastline — from sweeping sandy beaches and dramatic rocky headlands to intimate rock formations and sheltered coves. The ever-changing tidal conditions, weather, and light provide endless creative opportunities across the four days.
On this workshop, you will develop advanced skills in coastal and seascape photography. The Coromandel offers dramatic ocean conditions and beautiful, moody light, creating an ideal setting for coastal work. Our tutors will guide you through a combination of field sessions and post-processing instruction to help you produce striking, expressive images.
Capture the raw energy and power of the ocean. Learn to build bold compositions that convey movement and impact as waves meet the shoreline.
Learn to create timeless, elegant images through simplicity, long exposure, and thoughtful composition using negative space.
Ken Wright’s seascapes speak for themselves, outstanding moments in time that capture sunrise and sunset. With 40 years experience in creative industries, Ken is highly skilled in design, illustration and photography.
Creative Auckland-based photographer, Gail Stent, has developed a passion for Fine Art photography over the years. She uses her camera and post production techniques to create images as a form of self expression, evoking emotions in the viewer.
The workshop is based in Whangamatā on the Coromandel Peninsula. Accommodation details and recommendations will be provided upon booking. On the last day, we will aim to finish in time to connect with late afternoon travel.
Start time Day 1: The workshop will start at 12pm on 30 October 2026.
Finish time Day 4: The workshop will finish on 2 November 2026 at 3pm.
Food: The price tour includes breakfast each morning, this is normally at the hotel but sometimes a local cafe. Lunch and dinner (apart from any listed as being included) are at your own expense. We will stop at a cafe/shop for lunch and book a table for the group for dinner each day at a local restaurant. Sometimes evening meal times might be early/late to fit around the time of sunset. New Zealand has great food and caters well for any preferences like allergies, vegetarian etc.
A 15% deposit is required to reserve your space (deposit is non-refundable). The remaining balance is due 90 days prior to the start of the workshop.
Booking and Cancellation Policy: Please click here for our booking and cancellation policy.
This tour runs with a maximum group size of 8 and 2 tutors, offering 1:4 ratio of tutors to guests. Limiting group sizes ensure we provide you with expert guidance, instruction, and personal attention according to your learning style. Smaller groups of up to 5 may only be led by one tutor.
Camera Equipment: Our tours focus on how to use your camera, not your type of camera. A basic list of recommended camera equipment can be found here
Clothing: A list of recommended clothing to bring on the tour can be found here
A minimum level of physical activity is necessary to enjoy this tour. A lot of locations we shoot require a short walk (10-20mins one way) along the forest tracks or the coastline. These are sometimes uphill, over uneven ground, or rocky beaches and you will be carrying your own equipment. On this tour, there may be a couple of longer walk options (30-45 min one way) but if these are difficult for the group, we do have the option to split the group at these locations. If your fitness or mobility is an issue please let us know.