Swim With Giants Photography Adventure
Humpback Whales of Niue

Leighton Lum

Hawaii native Leighton Lum’s jaw-dropping images simply speak for themselves. Led by his creative eye and passion for adventure, Leighton has traveled the globe to destinations like Africa, South America, Iceland, Indonesia, and Antarctica, leading photography workshops and making his own award-winning photographs. Leighton hopes his photography inspires others and raises awareness about conservation to ensure future generations can enjoy the natural world he cherishes. Read more about Leighton and see a selection of his images.

We understand life happens and plans may change. If you need to cancel your reservation, the following policies apply:

Deposits are NOT refundable but may be transferred to another Art of Seeing workshop for up to 24 months from date of cancellation in accordance with the following schedule:

Regardless of when you cancel, if we fill your spot*, you will receive a refund of all fees paid less your deposit and $150 processing fee. If we cannot fill your spot, the amount of your refund is based upon the cancellation date:

• Cancellation 120 days or more from workshop start date: 100% refund of fees paid less deposit and $150 processing fee. Deposit transferrable up to 24 mos.

• Cancellation 90 – 120 days from workshop start date: 50% refund of fees paid less deposit and $150 processing fee. Deposit forfeit.

• Cancellation less than 90 days from workshop start date: No refunds.

*Canceled spots are filled after the workshop reaches full capacity

All cancellations must be made in writing. Refunds will be paid by the same method that the original payment was made. 

Payments made for private workshops that you arrange with us are not refundable.

If you've traveled with us before, thank you!  You're the reason we are blessed to make our passion our profession.

Select the number of Art of Seeing workshops you’ve previously attended when registering and your Alumni discount will automatically be applied. Click here for details of our Alumni Rewards Program.

Q: Where is Niue?

A: Niue (pronounced “New-ay”) is a small island nation in the South Pacific, located roughly halfway between Tonga and the Cook Islands..

Q:  How do I get to Niue?

A:  Despite its remote setting, Niue is easily accessible via a direct 3.5-hour flight from Auckland, New Zealand. Additional information to help book your Auckland-Niue flight will be provided to registered participants.

Q: What are the physical fitness requirements?

A: You must be able to swim in the ocean and cover 200-350 feet. Additionally, you should be comfortable in deeper water, where you may not be able to see the bottom.

Q:  What kind of photography equipment do I need?

A: A variety of viable options exist including dSLR/mirrorless cameras in an underwater housing, underwater point & shoots, GoPro type action cameras and even phone cameras in a housing. Each option has its pros and cons and price tag. We’re happy to provide our input and specific recommendations based on your goals and budget. Just ask.

Q: Are the seas calm? What if I get seasick?

A: The weather during July and August is generally calm, but occasional weather can roll in. We recommend bringing seasickness medication in case rougher conditions occur.

Q: Can I bring a drone?

A: Yes, you may bring a drone. We have the necessary permits, but you must fly in accordance with  local drone regulations and respectful wildlife practices.

Q: What happens if the weather is bad?

A: If the weather is unfavorable or unsafe, we will remain on shore. While no refunds will be provided, we can use the day to explore the island, engage in landscape photography, or work on editing images.

Q: Do you guarantee whale encounters?

A: No, we are confident we will enjoy multiple close-up encounters with humpback whales, but Mother Nature makes no guarantees and neither do we.

Q: What if I want to skip a session?

A: No worries, feel free to hang out in town or relax back at the hotel.

Q: Can my non-photographer friend/partner attend?

A: Absolutely! Travel partners who may not share your passion for photography are very welcome to join. Just make sure they’re comfortable being part of a group that focuses primarily on photography. However, due to limited space, we are unable to offer a discount or alternate activities for non-photographer partners.

Q: Can I rent snorkeling gear?

A: Yes, mask, snorkel, and fins are available for rent at the local dive shop.

Q: Is scuba diving allowed?

A: No, scuba diving is not allowed in Niue to protect and avoid stressing the whales.

Q: Is there an extra fee for a private room?

A: No, the workshop fee includes private rooms with ensuite bathrooms.