Photographing the Majestic Humpback Whales in Ketchikan, Alaska

Ketchikan is a prime destination for wildlife photography, and few subjects are as awe-inspiring as the humpback whale. These massive marine mammals migrate through the waters of Southeast Alaska each summer, offering photographers a spectacular opportunity to capture their grace and power. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic hobbyist, here are some tips to help you get the perfect shot of these ocean giants.

Know When and Where to Look

Humpback whales are most commonly seen in Ketchikan from May through September, though some have been known to linger through the winter. They frequent the waters of Clarence Strait, Behm Canal, George Inlet, and Tongass Narrows, feeding on schools of herring and krill. Booking a whale-watching tour or heading out on a private boat increases your chances of an up-close encounter, but it’s not essential—sometimes the whales follow the fish right into the boat harbors! Look for telltale signs like spouts of mist rising from the water or flocks of birds gathering above feeding areas.

One of the most spectacular behaviors to witness is bubble-net feeding, a cooperative hunting technique unique to humpbacks. A single whale or a group works together, blowing bubbles in a circular pattern beneath a school of fish to create a "net" that traps their prey. As the fish cluster, the whales lunge upward with mouths wide open, engulfing massive amounts of food in one swift motion. To onlookers, this dramatic display appears as a sudden eruption of whales breaking the surface, often accompanied by a frenzy of seagulls diving for stray fish.

Essential Gear for Whale Photography

To capture stunning images of humpbacks, having the right equipment is crucial. A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a telephoto lens (200mm-600mm) allows you to zoom in without disturbing the whales. A fast shutter speed (1/1000s or faster) helps freeze motion, especially when whales breach or slap their tails against the water. A polarizing filter can also be useful to cut glare from the water’s surface.

Best Camera Settings

• Shutter Speed: At least 1/1000s to freeze motion.

• Aperture: f/5.6-f/8 for a sharp focus with some depth of field.

• ISO: Adjust based on lighting conditions, but keep it as low as possible to reduce noise.

• Burst Mode: Use continuous shooting mode to capture multiple frames of a breach or tail slap.

• Autofocus: Set to AI Servo (Canon) or AF-C (Nikon/Sony) to track moving whales.

Composing the Perfect Shot

While it’s tempting to zoom in on the action, consider the overall composition. Wide shots can showcase the scale of the whale against the Alaskan landscape, while close-ups highlight intricate details like barnacle-covered chins. Try to position yourself with the sun behind you to illuminate the whale’s body and create a well-exposed shot.

Ethical Wildlife Photography

Respecting wildlife is key to responsible photography. Keep a safe distance, as federal regulations require boats to stay at least 100 yards away from humpback whales. Avoid using drones unless permitted, and never attempt to lure or provoke wildlife for a shot. Not only is this illegal, but it also puts the wildlife at risk. The best images come from natural behavior observed with patience and respect.

Editing for Impact

Post-processing can enhance your whale photography. Adjust contrast and exposure to bring out details in the water and the whale’s body. Slight sharpening can help emphasize textures, and cropping can improve composition if needed. If shooting in RAW, you’ll have greater flexibility in adjusting colors and exposure.

Final Thoughts

Photographing humpback whales in Alaska is an exhilarating experience that requires preparation, patience, and respect for these magnificent creatures. With the right gear, settings, and ethical approach, you can capture breathtaking images that showcase the beauty of these ocean giants and the stunning Alaskan seascape. Whether you’re aiming for an iconic breaching shot or a serene moment of a whale gliding through the water, each encounter is an opportunity to tell a unique visual story.