Frequently Asked Questions

Our name, Shutterbug Walkabouts, perfectly reflects what we do and who we do it for. We chose this name by considering key definitions that align with our vision.

A ‘shutterbug’ is commonly defined as someone who has a passion for photography. According to the Cambridge Dictionary, a shutterbug is “a person who enjoys taking photographs and takes a lot of them, but who is not a professional photographer.” Wikipedia also describes a shutterbug as “an enthusiastic amateur photographer.” In essence, it’s about the joy of capturing images, regardless of whether or not photography is a profession.

‘Walkabout’ is defined as ‘a short period of wandering… as an occasional interruption of regular work' (Merriam-Webster). The idea of wandering and exploring resonates with our approach to photography experiences – inviting you to step away from routine, immerse yourself in nature, and capture moments of beauty along the way.

At Shutterbug Walkabouts, we offer a range of nature photography experiences to help you capture unique images, elevate your skills and build your confidence, all within a relaxed and supportive setting.

All our photography experiences are offered in Tasmania, Australia.

Most of our same-day experiences either depart from or take place in/near Hobart while our multi-day tours and retreats take you to a variety of breathtaking locations across the island. From rugged coastlines to ancient forests and pristine wilderness, these multi-day experiences provide incredible opportunities for all aspects of nature, landscape, bird and wildlife photography.

Absolutely! Our tours, retreats, and tuition sessions are thoughtfully tailored for photo enthusiasts at every stage of their creative or learning journey. Whether you’re just starting out, getting familiar with a new camera, or looking to refine your skills, we offer personalised guidance to help you grow and capture stunning images.

We define each skill level as follows:

• Leisure Photographer: You enjoy being outdoors, capturing moments with ease, maybe with a bridge camera, DSLR or mirrorless, though often using a smartphone or point-and-shoot camera. You may be ready to level up your skills... or happy exactly where you are.

• Beginner: You primarily shoot in auto mode (green square) and would like to gain more confidence using your camera, learn some creative techniques and better understand the fundamentals like composition and exposure.

• Beginner+: You have gained some experience, but are yet to fully grasp manual settings. You’re ready to improve and experiment by unleashing your inner shutterbug.

• Intermediate: You have a good grasp of the basics and you're reasonably comfortable with some of the manual settings available, even if you are not shooting in full manual mode or occasionally stumble. You’re ready to refine your skills and explore new techniques.

• Advanced: You’re confident with manual settings and have strong photography skills. You are keen to explore new or different ideas, techniques or approaches or would like a local guide to accompany you, and provide local insights, during your photography adventures.

Yes, we offer custom experiences and activities for private groups. Get in touch to discuss what you are looking for with us and we will find a way to accommodate your needs.

Yes. You need to bring your own camera gear and any lenses to your experience.

You may wish to bring your accessories such as remote shutter release, filters, rain covers etc - while not essential. Note that some accessories may be applicable to your camera and lens models and not interchangeable between different brands and models.

Loan tripods are avialable to use as desired/required during your experience at no additional cost.

We believe using and learning your own equipment provides the best chance for continuity in your photography journey.

Our ‘What to Bring’ page will guide you in preparing for your experience, and in some cases, a detailed recommended packing list will be included with your booking confirmation.

Smartphone cameras are a wonderful option for a Photography Day Out. However, please note that any instruction provided will not focus on the specific features or the wide range of brands, models, or applications available for smartphones.

For tuition experiences, retreats, and small group sessions, the focus will be on learning to use DSLR, mirrorless, and compact cameras with manual functionality. These cameras offer greater control over settings like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, which can unlock more creative possibilities.

If you’re unsure about which equipment to bring, please refer to our ‘What to Bring’ page or contact us for advice tailored to your booked experience.

The cost of our tours and tuition sessions varies depending on the experience, duration, inclusions and number of participants. Please refer to the specific experience page on our website for detailed pricing information.

We don’t impose a maximum age limit, as long as you are reasonably fit, mobile, and healthy. Majority of our guests are aged 30-75 years of age with some younger or older because it's all about the leisurely paced practical learning experience they desire, not about the age they are.

Children aged 12-17 years are welcome on private experiences when accompanied and supervised by a parent or adult guardian and engaged with the slower pace photography aspect of the experience. Younger participants may find the experience and activities less suitable.

When your experience includes transport, you will travel in our spacious and stylish 2019 Toyota Kluger SUV (aka Toyota Highlander). This modern, air-conditioned vehicle is fully registered and accredited as a public passenger vehicle with Transport Tasmania.

Our vehicle seats up to six passengers plus the driver. For optimum space and comfort, we suggest a maximum of four passengers. However, a group of six can travel, with the 5th and 6th passengers seated in the third row. We recommend the third-row seating for individuals of smaller stature (up to 160 cm or 5’4”) who can comfortably step up through the wide-opening rear passenger doors.

Additional information

• The 2nd row of seating slides back and forth as needed and has significant legroom at all positions (a little less if the 3rd row is in use for groups of 5 or 6 participants).

• The fold-down split of 2nd and 3rd rows of seating is 60:40

The following information is taken from the dimensions of the Toyota Highlander (as found online) and is a guide for your reference only. Exact measurements can be provided by request.

We invite you to contact us to discuss your individual requirements. Some of our published experiences may be adjusted to accommodate your needs or we will customise an experience specifically tailored to suit you.

The best time for photography in Tasmania depends on the type of scenery or subjects you’re interested in, such as wildlife, birds, landscapes, night sky etc. Tasmania offers diverse photographic opportunities throughout the year, with each season bringing its own unique characteristics. We offer photography tuition, tours and retreats year-round to help you capture the seasonal splendour of Tasmania. Feel free to contact us for personalised advice on the ideal time based on your photographic interests.

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