the photography expedition with emily abay to the philippines
the photography expedition with emily abay to the philippines
$0.00
1st - 8th October, 2025
$3765 AUD per person.
join photographer emily abay on an unforgettable photography expedition to siargao, a stunning island in the philippines.
stay in beachfront cabanas, embark on boat expeditions and discover hidden remote islands. take part in photography workshops - from location scouting, to photographing the resident model to post production - and soak up the tropical vibes every step of the way.
location
siargao is a stunning island located in the southern philippines, part of the surigao del norte province. famous for its world-class surf breaks, pristine beaches, and lush natural beauty, it’s known as the surfing capital of the country. the island offers everything from thrilling waves at cloud 9 to tranquil lagoons, hidden islands, and vibrant local culture. with its laid-back vibe and breathtaking scenery, siargao is the perfect destination for adventure seekers and relaxation lovers alike.
itinerary
day one
welcome day
YOU HAVE ARRIVED in siargao, a laid-back island paradise known for its epic waves, turquoise lagoons, and palm tree-lined roads
SETTLE INTO your boho beach front accommodation
MEET your fellow travellers and emily and your resident model
WELCOME dinner, get to know the people you will form lifelong friendships with
INTRODUCTORY talk from emily
day two
scouting and sunset shoots
BREAKFAST
LOCATION scouting workshop with emily, learn how to track the sun and how to anticipate light. learn how to problem solve with location ideas
FREE TIME to explore siargao. you can rent a bike and explore its many hidden gems—pristine beaches, lush coconut forests, vibrant local markets, and chill cafes
SUNSET WORKSHOP with emily, watch a live photoshoot. you will also have an opportunity to shoot the model in the location you discovered earlier in the scouting program
day three
island hopping adventure
BREAKFAST eat your fill for a day full of adventure ahead
EXPLORE the surronding islands of siargao - daku island, naked island, guyam island, and secret beach. daku island offers white sands, clear waters, and a traditional boodle fight feast. naked island is a picturesque sandbar, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. guyam island is a snorkeling haven with vibrant coral and iconic palm trees and secret beach is a secluded retreat for pure relaxation
BREAK for lunch midway through your island hopping and enjoy fresh seafood
**throughout the day you will have opportunities for practise your skills and photograph the model - with emily present to offer tutoring
RETURN to siargo after an epic day of exploration
FREE TIME to explore the bars, restaurants and nightlife of siargao
day four
sunrise shoots
SUNRISE WORKSHOP lighting photoshoot workshop with emily (optional). learn hacks and tips on getting the perfect light at sunrise. you will also have an opportunity to tandem shoot with the model at sunrise to get an idea of what its like to shoot at that time of day. emily will also guide you through the post production of the images to assist them with learning about grading and colour treatments
BREAKFAST
VISIT cloud 9 to see what siargao is most famous for - its surfing and epic waves
OPT IN for a surfing class suitable for all levels or if you already know how to surf opt in to rent a board
FREE time to grab some lunch and explore siargao in your own time. head back to the villa to chill and read a book, or rent a bike and drive around the palm lined roads exploring hidden beaches and coves
day five
lagoons and palm tree lined rivers
BREAKFAST
JOURNEY to sugba lagoon for paddleboarding, swimming, and diving off the floating platforms. sugba lagoon in siargao is a serene spot known for its clear turquoise waters, surrounded by mangroves and limestone cliffs
WORKSHOP by emily at sugba. learn how to shoot in open public spaces and dodge the crowd. think on your toes and choose perfect compositions to make the busy location look like a tranquil quiet space
EXPLORE the nearby mangrove forest via kayak
RETURN to mainland siargao
FREE time to grab some lunch and explore siargao in your own time. chill and read a book, take another surf lesson or rent a bike and drive around the palm lined roads
day six
rock pools and caves
BREAKFAST
VISIT magpupungko rock pools during low tide for swimming and cliff jumping
CHILL on the beach after your rock pool swim
BREAK for lunch
HIKE through tayangban cave to reach the blue pool for a refreshing underground swim
FREE TIME to explore the bars, resturants and nightlife of siargao
day seven
yoga & rivers
SUNRISE VISIT the iconic maasin river famous for its iconic rope swing and palm trees
ENJOY a swim in the river, or jump from the diving board
RETURN to general luna as your base to explore the island or partake in option add on activities. explore the cafes, hire a bike and visit coconut road, an iconic stretch of palm trees perfect for photos, shop for fruit or book in for another surf lesson
OPTIONAL add on activities available e.g surfing & boat trips
FAREWELL DINNER
day eight
farewells
BREAKFAST
LAST minute souvenir shopping
FAREWELL meeting
TRANSFERS to airport
acommodation
you will be staying in a twin room in either a beach front cabana or a rustic loft villa on siargao island, just steps away from a pristine white sandy beach with stunning views of the pacific ocean. wake up to the gentle sound of waves and enjoy a refreshing rain shower in your private outdoor bathroom surrounded by orchids.
beach cabana
loft villa
an invitation from emily
Dearest Photography community,
These days its easy to take a photo right? Just pick up your phone, point and shoot.. Maybe even import the image into an Ai app that will give you a pre-existing grade that will enhance your image. Even your grandma knows how to take a photo. But does this make you a photographer? Nope..
Being a photographer is so much more than just pointing, shooting and applying a filter.. This is what spending a week with me in the Philippines is all about. Photography is about patience and understanding about how to anticipate what's going to happen when light hits your camera. Its about getting up early and waiting for that perfect sunrise, but being ready for the perfect storm and thinking on your toes when things don't go to plan.. Its about problem solving and having the confidence to produce a really beautiful photograph in any kind of condition.
I've been a photographer for over 20 years, and now I'm finally at a point where I want to share my experience and knowledge.
I've shot many beaches in my day, but the Philippines will be a whole new experience for me and I'm so utterly excited to be sharing this with you and making new connections with people who, like myself, all have a story and all have found a love for photography and travel.
Join me for a an amazing experience.. And go home with the most ultimate souvenir, professional photographs taken by you in a tropical paradise!
Love, Emily x
inclusions
Workshops from Emily
Location scouting workshop. Learn how to track the sun and how to anticipate light. Learn how to problem solve with location ideas
Sunset workshop. Watch a live photoshoot with Emily and the model and welcome Q&A. Guests will also have an opportunity to shoot the model in the location they discovered earlier in the scouting program
Sunrise workshop. Live photoshoot performed by Emily and model. Learn about a few hacks and tips on getting the perfect light at sunrise. Guests will also have an opportunity to tandem shoot with the model at sunrise to get an idea of what its like to shoot at that time of day. Later Emily will guide the guests through the post production of the images to assist them with learning about grading and colour treatments.
Sugba Workshop. Learn how to shoot in open public spaces and dodge the crowd. Think on your toes and choose perfect compositions to make the busy location look like a tranquil quiet space.
6 nights accommodation
All breakfasts
2 dinners
Tri island hopping
Sugba lagoon
Magpupunko rock pools & Tayangban cave
Maasin river visit
All tours includes:
transfers/transport via vans,
all tourist entrance/environmental fees
all boat fees (exclusive use)
lunch as indicated
drinking water on each tour
personal guide/s.
Aweventurer coordinator
Siargao airport transfers
exclusions
Flights to and from Siargao
Meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
Optional activities
Tips and gratuities
Travel insurance
FAQs
How can I join?
Please secure your place by paying a deposit, the full trip price or opting onto a payment plan. Confirmation will take place via email. There is a maximum number of places available on this trip so act fast.
How many people will be on the trip?
Our trips run from 10 - 18 people.
How do I get there?
We will be picking up guests at at a pre-agreed time from Siargao airport. Fly to Siargao (Sayak Airport) Direct Flights: From major Philippine cities like Manila (MNL) or Cebu (CEB), you can book a direct flight to Sayak Airport (IAO) in Del Carmen, Siargao. Airlines like Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and SkyJet usually offer these flights. Duration: From Manila: ~2 hours. From Cebu: ~1 hour. 2. Via Cebu or Surigao City If direct flights to Siargao aren't available, you can connect through Cebu or Surigao City. From Cebu: Take a flight to Sayak Airport. From Surigao City: By Ferry: Ferries and pump boats run from Surigao Port to Siargao (Dapa Port). Travel time is ~2-3 hours.
What is the rooming configuration?
The rooms are sharing, so you will have one or more besties for the entirety of the trip to share the experience with. Private rooms may be available on request from operations@aweventurer.com
How can I pay?
Either pay in full or pay the deposit now, and book onto a payment plan, using the book now button.
What should I pack?
Essentials to Pack for Siargao:
Water casing or waterproof bags for your cameras
Beachwear: Swimsuits, rash guards, and lightweight clothing.
Footwear: Flip-flops and water shoes.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses.
Waterproof Gear: Dry bag, waterproof phone case.
Surfing Needs: Wax, reef-safe sunscreen (if surfing).
Cash: Limited ATMs on the island.
Basic Medicine: For motion sickness, bug bites, and minor cuts.
Snorkeling Gear (optional): If you prefer your own.