© Rachel Bigsby Sample Images for Heritage ExpeditionsScreenshot 2026-04-22 at 13.11.50.png

Wildlife Photography
Expeditions & Workshops

With over a decade of specialist field experience spanning the Arctic, Antarctic, Subantarctic islands and some of the world's most remote seabird colonies, Rachel brings an exceptional depth of knowledge to every photographic expedition. An internationally recognised fine-art wildlife photographer, she combines her distinctive artistic vision with the expertise of an AECO and IAATO-certified expedition guide, licensed powerboat operator and qualified emergency first aider.

A Different Approach

  • Rachel's approach to teaching is shaped by the way she first discovered photography; independently, with a ‘point and shot’ camera in her hands, an endless curiosity for wildlife and no knowledge of the rules she was supposedly meant to follow. Over the years, she has remained true to her own creative instincts, building a career around the subjects she loves rather than following the expectations of what a wildlife photographer should be.

  • Rachel is an AECO and IAATO-certified expedition guide, licensed powerboat operator and qualified emergency first aider.

    It is Rachel’s qualifications and extensive expedition experience that positions her as a trustworthy tutor.

  • Rachel brings an intimate understanding of her subjects to every workshop and expedition.

    Her extensive time in the field, alongside scientists and conservationists has shaped an approach to teaching that is as informed by natural history and animal behaviour as it is by artistic expression.

  • With small groups and attentive, individual guidance, Rachel creates a welcoming and supportive environment where each photographer can learn at their own pace and pursue their personal creative ambitions.

    Participants are also warmly invited to join daily image reviews and post-processing sessions, offering opportunities to reflect, experiment and refine their work together.

  • An experienced tutor to high-profile clients, Rachel offers bespoke photographic tuition with professionalism and discretion.

Logo for AECO (Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators) : A black logo with large letters spelling AECO and a stylised compass rose symbol in the upper right corner.
Logo for IAATO (International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators) : A white logo with large letters spelling IAATO.

Wildlife Photography
Workshop & Expedition Clients

Falkland Island Government

EYOS Expeditions

Hebridean Adventures

Natural History Museum, London

Nikon School UK

Wild Discovery

Nansen Polar Expeditions

Heritage Expeditions

  • A photograph of a group of people in cold weather gear on inflatable boats exploring the icy waters of Antarctica with mountains and glaciers in the background, and a large Humpback Whale's tail in the water just meters away.
  • A group of people in a black inflatable boat with outboard motor, on the sea, shore side of Macquarie Island, with a green hillside and yellow-topped mountains in the background. The hillside is lush and the sky is partly cloudy.
  • A photograph of Rachel Bigsby smiling at a workshop guest, wearing a green beanie and outdoor jacket, outdoors with cloudy sky in the background.
  • A photograph of Rachel Bigsby pointing toward the distance, beside a workshop guest. They stand on a trail on Campbell Island amidst lush greenery and bushes, with a view of the sea and rolling hills in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
  • A photograph of Rachel Bigsby sitting beside a workshop guest outdoors near a rocky area, showing the guest a Nikon camera, in soft Autumnal light.
  • A photograph of a group of nine people (including Rachel Bigsby on the farthest right) standing on the deck of a boat in Antarctica with snowy mountains and ice in the background, wearing winter clothing and sunglasses.
  • A black and white photograph of Rachel Bigsby's workshop guests in outdoor winter clothing on a boat in Arctic Svalbard, with mountains in the background.
  • A photograph of a wildlife photography workshop group on the deck of a ship in icy, mountainous Antarctic landscape, many waving and smiling.
  • A photograph of Rachel Bigsby stood beside a workshop guest on a wooden viewing platform near at RSPB Bempton Cliffs, smiling and chatting during sunrise, with cameras on tripods nearby.
  • A photograph of a group of workshop guests in Antarctica wearing winter clothing, riding in a black inflatable boat on icy water, with snow falling and a cold, foggy landscape in the background. A Humpback Whale breeches just meters in front.
  • A photograph of workshop guests in a black inflatable boat on the Southern Ocean waters surrounding Macquarie Island, with green, rocky cliffs and many seabirds in the background.