Ocean Expeditions | Journeys
Maui / Aerial, Doors-off Helicopter, Big Wave Surf Photography Workshop
Experience the thrill of a lifetime as you witness the world's top surfing and kiteboarding athletes performing in their natural playground. These legends and champions are at the forefront of their sports, constantly pushing the boundaries of athleticism and watermanship. You’ll have the ultimate vantage point—from a doors-off helicopter*, soaring above the action!
The sounds of crashing waves, helicopter blades, and the control tower are what you hear over your heart pounding in your ears and the adrenaline pumping. But that's not all! Enhance your adventure by learning how to capture stunning photographs of these action icons in the breathtaking setting of Peʻahi, Maui.
With the dramatic landscape as your backdrop, you’ll have the chance to refine your photography skills while documenting the incredible feats of these athletes. From the soaring sprays of the waves to the vibrant colors of the ocean, every moment offers an opportunity to create breathtaking images that reflect the raw energy and beauty of this iconic environment.
Don’t just watch the action—become a part of it and take home memories that will last a lifetime!
*Group size is weight restricted
Join this thrilling photography workshop
Offered in Maui's Big Wave Season, November - Febuary 2025- 2026
Register your interest now for priority access when workshop dates are confirmed. Our journeys are scheduled based on optimal seasonal conditions and real-time monitoring of ocean swells for the best possible experience
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WORKSHOP OVERVIEW
Elevate your photography skills—literally—in this exclusive aerial photography workshop where you'll capture world-class surfers and kiteboarders from a doors-off helicopter above Maui's legendary Pe'ahi (Jaws). This immersive experience combines the thrill of flight with professional photography instruction for a truly unique creative adventure.
Workshop Details
Duration: 4-5 hours total (includes pre-flight instruction, 1-2 hour helicopter flight time based on weight, post-processing session)
Location: Maui, Hawaii
Group Size: Variable based on total passenger weight
Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced
Price: Contact for personalized quote
What You'll Experience
Pre-Flight Preparation (Ground Session)
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Technical briefing on aerial photography settings and techniques
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Equipment preparation and safety procedures
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Shot planning and composition strategies for action photography
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Understanding Pe'ahi's unique conditions and athlete movements
Aerial Photography Flight
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Doors-off helicopter experience above Pe'ahi
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Real-time guidance from your instructor via headset
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Prime positioning to capture world-class athletes in action
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Opportunities to photograph dramatic coastlines, breaking waves, and athletic performances
Post-Processing Workshop
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Professional editing guidance for your captured images
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Color correction techniques for ocean photography
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Selection and enhancement of your best shots
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Tips for showcasing your aerial photography portfolio
What's Included
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Professional photography instruction
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1-2 hour helicopter flight time (doors off)
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Safety equipment and headset communication
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Light refreshments
Booking Notes
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Workshop dates are scheduled based on optimal swell conditions and athlete availability
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Register your interest to receive priority booking when prime conditions are forecast
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36 hour range typically provided before confirmed sessions
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Weather backup dates will be offered if conditions change
Experience the unique combination of adrenaline and artistry as you capture these ocean athletes from a perspective few photographers ever access.
Contact us for pricing and to discuss your specific workshop needs.
What's Included
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Pre-flight photography instruction and safety briefing
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1-2 hour doors-off helicopter flight time (based on passenger weight)
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Prime positioning above world-class surf breaks
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Real-time photography guidance via headset communication
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Ground transportation for workshop activities
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Post-flight image review and editing session
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Light refreshments during workshop sessions
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Expert instruction from Emily with small group size (based on helicopter capacity)
Not Included
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Photography equipment (bring your own camera gear)
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Round-trip airfare to Maui
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Accommodation (recommendations available)
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Meals outside of workshop hours
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Additional helicopter time beyond included flight duration
Physical Requirements
This workshop requires a moderate fitness level. Participants should be comfortable with:
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Early morning departures to capture optimal light and conditions
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Helicopter flights with doors removed (secured by safety harness)
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Potentially variable weather conditions
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Handling camera equipment securely in open-air flight situations
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No fear of heights or motion sensitivity that would interfere with aerial photography
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No serious health conditions that could be compromised in a remote setting
Transformative Experience
Beyond photography, this workshop offers a rare perspective on one of surfing's most spectacular phenomena. Witnessing athletes challenge these massive forces of nature from a bird's-eye view creates a profound appreciation for human courage and the ocean's raw power. The experience of documenting these fleeting moments combines technical skill with artistic vision, resulting in imagery that captures both the scale and emotion of big wave surfing.
Workshop dates are scheduled based on optimal swell conditions. Register your interest to receive priority booking when prime surf conditions are forecast.
EXPEDITION INVESTMENT & TERMS
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Dates: Workshop dates determined by optimal swell conditions
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Per Person Rate: Contact Emily for current pricing
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Group Size: Variable based on helicopter capacity and weight restrictions
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Workshop Duration: 4-5 hours total (including 1-2 hour flight time)
Payment Schedule
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Initial Deposit: $500 per person to secure your place
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Final Payment: Remaining balance due on the day of flight
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Short-Notice Bookings: Dependent on Emily's schedule and helicopter availability
Reservation Policy
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Your place in the workshop is confirmed only upon receipt of deposit
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Payments accepted via credit card or check
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A detailed workshop preparation guide will be provided upon registration
Cancellation Policy
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Deposit is refundable if conditions change and prevent workshop execution
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If you need to cancel and conditions are favorable, a secondary flight itinerary may be arranged
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Weather-related cancellations: If conditions prevent flying, we will reschedule or refund workshop cost
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We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation coverage
Workshop Protection
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Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended
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Coverage should include adventure activities and helicopter flights
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We can provide recommendations for insurance providers
Due to the nature of big wave surfing conditions, workshop dates will be finalized based on swell forecasts. Priority booking will be given to registered participants when optimal conditions are predicted.
ELEMENTAL EXPERIENCE
From a helicopter hovering above Maui's legendary breaks, you'll witness extraordinary human courage meeting nature's raw power. This workshop focuses on capturing the dedication and athleticism of elite surfers who dedicate their lives to riding mountains of water that most people only experience in their nightmares.
There is an immense respect for these watermen and waterwomen—athletes who train tirelessly, study weather patterns obsessively, and put their lives on the line in pursuit of riding these oceanic giants. The teamwork required is astounding: jet ski operators, safety teams, spotters, and photographers all playing critical roles in this high-stakes dance.
"There's something heart-pounding about being in a doors-off helicopter, hovering above waves that can reach heights of 50+ feet," Emily explains. "The scale becomes apparent in a way that's impossible from shore. You see the intricate dance between athlete and ocean—the precise positioning, the split-second timing, the complete commitment required to ride these monsters."
This is not just about documenting a sport—it's about becoming attuned to the ocean's rhythms, developing the patience that rewards with breakthrough moments, and experiencing firsthand why big wave surfing represents one of the purest expressions of human courage and connection to elemental forces.