Recommended camera settings#
Focal length needed to frame it#
For a subject about 1600 cm long filling a third or half of the frame width horizontally.
| Distance | ⅓ of frame (FF) | ½ of frame (FF) | ⅓ of frame (APS-C) | ⅓ of frame (MFT) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 m (16 ft) | 4 mm | 6 mm | 2 mm | 2 mm |
| 10 m (33 ft) | 7 mm | 11 mm | 5 mm | 4 mm |
| 15 m (49 ft) | 11 mm | 17 mm | 7 mm | 6 mm |
| 20 m (66 ft) | 15 mm | 22 mm | 10 mm | 7 mm |
| 30 m (98 ft) | 22 mm | 34 mm | 15 mm | 11 mm |
| 50 m (164 ft) | 37 mm | 56 mm | 25 mm | 19 mm |
About the Humpback Whale#
The humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) is a species of baleen whale. One of the larger rorqual species, adults range in length from 12–16 m (39–52 ft) and weigh about 36,000 kg (79,000 lb). The humpback has a distinctive body shape, with long pectoral fins and a knobbly head.
Summary adapted from Wikipedia via iNaturalist (CC BY-SA 4.0).
Field-craft tips#
- Fluke shots: wait for the arched back that precedes a dive.
- Boat motion adds blur — keep 1/1000 s minimum and use stabilisation.
- Sightings peak in July and August, which is when you'll have the most chances.
Ethics#
- The welfare of the animal comes first: if it changes its behaviour because of you, you are too close.
- Stay on trails, respect closures around nests, leks, dens and haul-outs.
- Avoid playback and baiting in sensitive seasons; never bait predators.
- Don't share precise locations of rare, nesting or roosting animals publicly.
Frequently asked questions#
What lens do I need to photograph a Humpback Whale?
At about 1600 cm long, a humpback whale fills a third of a full-frame image at 10 m with roughly 7 mm, or at 20 m with 15 mm.
What shutter speed should I use for a Humpback Whale?
1/1000 s when it's still; 1/2000–1/3200 s for action.
When is the best time to photograph a Humpback Whale?
Observations in North America peak in July and August. Early morning and late afternoon give the best light and activity.
Sources & licences#
- iNaturalist — Observation data CC BY-NC; photo licence as credited
- Wikipedia — CC BY-SA 4.0
Last updated October 03, 2026 · How we calculate · Sources