- From above
- Helicopter, Ground
Choose your dates
2027
- 24–29 AugustOpen
4 places left
AUD $9,900 + GST · approx. USD $6,910
2028
- Dates to be announcedComing soon
From AUD $9,900 + GST · approx. USD $6,910
Guide price, 2028 pricing confirmed closer to the date
Bungle Bungles, Wyndham and Kununurra Ground and Aerial Expedition
Overview
Embark on an immersive six day photographic expedition through one of the most dramatic and visually striking landscapes in Australia. This workshop explores the extraordinary sandstone formations of the Bungle Bungles alongside the vast river systems, rugged escarpments and ancient terrain surrounding Kununurra and Wyndham in Western Australia’s remote Kimberley region.
This expedition combines aerial photography, drone exploration and ground based landscape shooting across a region that reveals completely different personalities depending on how it is viewed. From the air, the Kimberley becomes an intricate tapestry of erosion patterns, geological layers and tonal contrasts that have developed over hundreds of millions of years.
A key feature of this workshop will be helicopter based aerial photography throughout the Bungle Bungles and surrounding Kimberley ranges. These flights offer rare perspectives over one of Australia’s most iconic geological landscapes, with opportunities to photograph the distinctive beehive domes, hidden gorges and sweeping sandstone formations from above.
From the ground we will explore remote lookouts, river systems and dramatic Kimberley landscapes while making extensive use of drones where permitted to reveal the scale and patterns of the terrain. The combination of aerial and ground based photography provides a comprehensive experience of this extraordinary region.
This workshop is designed for photographers who want to experience one of Australia’s most remote and visually powerful landscapes while developing their creative approach to aerial and landscape photography.
Historical and Regional Context
The Bungle Bungles: Purnululu National Park
The Bungle Bungles are among the most remarkable geological formations in Australia. Located within Purnululu National Park, these distinctive sandstone domes are believed to be more than 350 million years old and are characterised by their striking orange and black banding.
From the ground the domes rise dramatically from the surrounding spinifex plains, but it is from the air that their true scale and complexity become apparent. Hundreds of dome shaped towers stretch across the landscape, separated by narrow gorges and deep shadowed valleys that create endless photographic possibilities.
Helicopter access allows us to photograph this landscape in ways that are simply not possible from the ground, revealing the geometry, scale and ancient erosion patterns that define this UNESCO World Heritage listed region.
Kununurra
Kununurra serves as the gateway to the eastern Kimberley and provides access to an incredible range of photographic subjects. The surrounding region features vast river systems, irrigated farmland, escarpments and dramatic mountain ranges that create strong visual contrasts across the landscape.
Lake Argyle, one of Australia’s largest freshwater lakes, sits nearby and contributes to the dramatic scenery that surrounds the town. The region offers excellent opportunities for both aerial and ground based photography with sweeping views across rugged terrain that has remained largely untouched for millennia.
Wyndham
Wyndham is one of the oldest towns in the Kimberley and sits at the mouth of the Ord River where it flows into Cambridge Gulf. The surrounding mudflats, rivers and mountain ranges create a unique visual environment that is particularly striking from the air.
Nearby vantage points such as the Bastion Range provide sweeping views across the gulf, tidal flats and surrounding ranges. The combination of rivers, tidal movement and rugged terrain creates a dynamic environment that changes dramatically with light and weather conditions.
Meet Your Instructors
This workshop is led by Scott Jon McCook, with Paul Hoelen joining as guest leader.
Scott Jon McCook has spent over a decade capturing some of the most striking landscapes in Australia and New Zealand from above. Known for his fine art aerial photography, Scott brings extensive experience in helicopter and drone based photography along with advanced post processing techniques that help transform raw captures into powerful final images.
Paul Hoelen is an award winning aerial and landscape photographer whose work has taken him across Australia’s most remote environments. Paul brings a wealth of experience in aerial storytelling, composition and visual interpretation of landscapes.
Together Scott and Paul provide a unique blend of technical knowledge and creative insight, helping participants refine their shooting techniques while developing their own photographic vision.
Itinerary
This is a rough guide to how the six days usually run. As with all aerial photography expeditions, flexibility is essential. Weather, light and flight availability will influence the exact structure of our days, allowing us to adapt to the best possible conditions.
01 Arrival in Kununurra
Participants arrive in Kununurra where we will meet and settle into accommodation before beginning the expedition. The afternoon will be used for introductions, equipment preparation and a briefing on aerial photography techniques and safety procedures for helicopter operations.
Depending on arrival times we may also explore nearby locations for sunset photography.
02 Kununurra and Surrounding Landscapes
Our first full day will focus on exploring the landscapes surrounding Kununurra. This may include elevated viewpoints across the Ord River system and opportunities to launch drones where conditions allow.
The aim of this day is to begin understanding the landscape, how light interacts with the terrain and how aerial perspectives can be used to interpret the environment creatively.
03 Helicopter Flights over the Bungle Bungles
This day will be dedicated to helicopter based aerial photography over the Bungle Bungles within Purnululu National Park.
Participants will fly in small groups, allowing each photographer clear shooting opportunities as we explore the iconic beehive domes, hidden gorges and vast sandstone formations that define this extraordinary landscape.
These flights provide an unrivalled perspective over one of Australia’s most spectacular geological regions and are often the highlight of the expedition.
04 Ground Exploration of the Purnululu Region
Following our aerial sessions we will explore accessible areas of the Bungle Bungles region from the ground, photographing the towering domes, narrow gorges and dramatic sandstone formations.
Drone opportunities will be used where permitted and where conditions allow, offering additional creative perspectives across the landscape.
05 Wyndham and Cambridge Gulf
Today we travel to Wyndham to photograph the dramatic landscapes surrounding Cambridge Gulf.
This region provides powerful compositions of rivers, tidal flats and rugged ranges that stretch toward the horizon. From elevated viewpoints we can photograph sweeping landscapes that capture the scale of the Kimberley environment.
Drone photography will play a strong role here, allowing us to reveal the patterns created by tidal movement and river systems across the landscape.
06 Final Sunrise and Departure
Our final morning will be dedicated to one last sunrise shoot in Wyndham, then we slowly make our way back to Kununurra for our final goodbyes.
Participants will depart with a portfolio of images captured across one of Australia’s most remarkable landscapes.
Flexibility and Conditions
The Kimberley is a dynamic environment and conditions can change quickly. Our itinerary is designed to remain flexible so that we can take advantage of the best available light and weather conditions.
Flight times may be adjusted, locations swapped and shooting sessions extended when opportunities arise. This flexibility allows us to maximise the photographic potential of the region and ensure participants experience the best possible conditions during the expedition. So in summary, the itinerary is only a very rough guide. Paul and I like to keep things dynamic and flexible, just like when we go to these regions on our own, so we are always in the best position at the best time.
Before you come
What it's really like
- Weather: cool mornings and warm, dry days
- A real road trip, with plenty of time in the van between locations and spontaneous stops along the way
- Short walks, up to three or four kilometres return, on uneven ground
- Flights booked around the best light and weather, so plans can change, sometimes on the day
- A mix of hotels, motels and lodges
- Meals together most nights (each person pays for their own)
- A small group and plenty of one on one time
- Comfortable clothes for the outdoors. Nothing formal needed
- A camera body (two if you have them), with a 24-70mm and a 70-200mm
- A wide lens and a sturdy tripod for the ground shoots
- Your drone, spare batteries and propellers, if you fly
- Straps for every camera on the flights
- Warm windproof layers, beanie and gloves for the doors off flights
- Good walking shoes or light hiking boots
- A rain jacket
- A laptop with Lightroom
- Plenty of memory cards and a backup drive
- Anything loose that could blow away on a flight
- A fixed idea of the itinerary. The weather decides the order
Cancellations and travel insurance
More than 90 days before the workshop: full refund, less a change fee of AUD $500 (about USD $330).
Between 90 and 30 days before: I'll move you to a future workshop with a credit for what you've paid, less the change fee. Credits are valid for 12 months.
Within 30 days: payments can't be refunded, as it's very hard to fill a place at short notice. If something genuinely unexpected happens, I'll always do my best to work something out with you.
If I need to cancel: whether it's minimum numbers, weather, aircraft or anything else outside my control, I'll try to reschedule first. Otherwise you can choose a full refund or a credit to another workshop.
Travel insurance is essential. Please arrange cover for cancellation, medical and evacuation from remote areas, and ideally your camera gear too. World Nomads covers travellers from over 100 countries, and guests from the US can also compare plans on Squaremouth.
Good to know
Common questions
Can I sit out a walk?
Of course. If you'd rather skip one of the walks, you're welcome to relax in the van.
What's it like shooting with the doors off?
Loud, windy and unforgettable. You're harnessed in the whole time and everything is strapped to you. One tip: dress warmer than you think you'll need. Even in the tropics it gets cold up there with the door off.
Is there a weight limit for the aircraft?
The pilots need passenger weights to keep everything balanced and safe, so I'll ask you privately when we chat. It stays strictly between you, me and the pilot.
How does booking work?
Just fill in the enquiry form on the workshop page. I'll get back to you, normally within 24 hours, with the booking details, payment information and terms. Your place is confirmed once your deposit is paid.
Do I need aerial experience?
Not at all. As long as you know your way around your camera, I'll guide you through the rest. Shooting from the air feels a little unusual at first, but most people are comfortable by the end of the first flight.
What happens if the weather grounds a flight?
It's part of aerial photography. I build some flexibility into every itinerary and do everything I can to reschedule flights within the trip. The full details are in the terms and conditions.
How confident do I need to be with my drone?
You'll want to be comfortable taking off and landing from uneven ground and flying in a light breeze. If you're still building confidence, a few practice sessions before the trip make a real difference.
When should I arrive?
I recommend arriving the day before we start. Flights can run late, and it means you'll be fresh on day one. I'll send through the meeting point and time before the trip.
How much luggage can I bring?
Usually one medium sized bag for clothes and a second, smaller bag for your camera gear. Soft bags or a well designed hard case are both fine. We play a bit of suitcase Jenga each day, which is all part of the fun.
Will I have my own room?
Yes. Everyone has their own room on all group and private workshops, unless you'd like to share. The accommodation for each trip is listed on its page.
Are meals included?
Meals aren't included in the price, so everyone pays for their own. On group workshops we usually eat together, which is one of the best parts of the trip, but if you'd like a quiet night to yourself that's completely fine.
Will I have phone coverage?
Most of the places we visit have phone coverage, with the occasional blank spot, usually while we're travelling between locations. From 2027 my expedition vehicles have Starlink on board as well, so staying in touch is easy.
Can my partner come along?
Often, yes. It depends on the trip and the seats in the aircraft, so just mention it when you get in touch and we'll work something out.
What if I'd rather do something private?
If the dates don't suit, or you'd like a trip built entirely around you, I also run private tours for one to three people. Have a look at my availability calendar and get in touch.
What past guests say
I recently attended a lap of Sth island New Zealand photography workshop with Scott McCook. It was the most memorable photography tour I have attended and this was my 4th overseas. It was meticulously planned and when changes had to be made it didnt make a difference to the workshop. The locations and helicoptor were amazing. I commend Scott and Paul on your kindness and friendship. I will be attending more of your workshops.
I participated in Scott’s South Island photography workshop in May 2026, and it was an absolutely outstanding experience. Scott possesses an incredible depth of knowledge across aerial, drone, and ground-based photography. Because the group size is kept small, everyone receives plenty of personalised attention in a highly supportive, non-competitive environment. Beyond his technical expertise, Scott is an all-around fantastic guy who ensures everyone feels welcome. I can’t recommend his workshops highly enough—book a spot and you'll be in expert hands!
I just completed Scott's Wheatbelt Salt Lakes workshop. Scott takes you to incredible locations where you get to capture great images, with so much energy and passion. Scott is willing to help and generously shares his knowledge and skills. Scott, your workshop is fabulous; you are an incredible artist with a desire to help your participants in their photography. You provided me with the best experiences for my drone photography. I would highly recommend Scott's workshops to anyone wanting to capture amazing aerial scenery.
I lead photography workshops for a living, so I don’t give glowing reviews lightly. When I say Scott McCook delivered one of the best workshop experiences I’ve had, that means something. My buddy and I spent 9 days with Scott shooting aerial photography across Australia, and he absolutely delivered. The man knows his locations cold: the right spots, the right light, the right windows. That’s the whole game in aerial work, and he had it dialed. Beyond the craft, Scott is genuinely fun to spend time with. Nine days in the field with someone is a real test of character, and he passed easily. Professional, funny, and completely focused on making sure you walk away with images you’re proud of. One moment stood out above the rest: on my way to Australia, I damaged a lens. Before I even had time to stress about it, Scott had sourced and bought me a replacement. That’s not something you do for a client. That’s something you do when you actually care about the experience someone has on your trip. If aerial photography is on your radar, stop deliberating. Book Scott McCook. You won’t regret it.
I can’t recommend Scott McCook’s aerial photography workshop in Western Australia enough! Especially his Shark Bay workshop. He is exceptionally knowledgeable, dependable, and passionate about his craft. Scott’s humor and friendly attitude made the experience both fun and inspiring. He is truly the very best at what he does, and his expertise shines through in his teaching. Whether exploring the breathtaking Shark Bay, the iconic Hutt Lagoon, or the industrial tailings, Scott’s guidance made capturing stunning aerial images an unforgettable experience. If you're looking to elevate your photography from a new perspective, Scott is the ultimate workshop provider.
Scott is an incredible teacher, artist and human. He went out of his way to make sure we visited incredible locations. I was lucky enough to have a 1:1 adventure with him. Intensely long days, lots of driving and insane locations. Scott is so dedicated to his mission to create a safe, inclusive learning environment, with positivity and energy. We had a blast! From being escorted out of the sky by eagles to jumping up and down with excitement at the latest location. 4 days flew bye. Best experience with a brilliant person.
Had the most incredible time exploring Western Australia with Scott. No one knows this area better than he does. Highly recommend touring with him.
I recently attended Scott’s Aerial Art photography class in Sydney and enjoyed the experience immensely. As an avid aerial photographer, I’m always interested in how other professionals plan their shoots and approach their post-production workflows. Scott provided valuable insights on both fronts. Even as an advanced Photoshop user, I found his guidance—particularly his approach to colour separation—exceptionally useful and immediately applicable to my own work. I highly recommend Scott’s class to anyone looking to deepen their understanding of planning, shooting, and editing aerial photography. It’s an excellent learning experience for photographers looking to advance their skills in aerial photographic art.
I just completed Scott's wheat belt tour. It was amazing despite threatening rain at the start. Scott was flexible and changing plans to accommodate the weather. Scott's focus was solely on the participants to ensure that they got the best photos possible. He was generous with advice on techniques, composition and post production. Most of all Scott was friendly and encouraging, and I would defiantly recommend his tours.
I had the best time at Scott's workshop. I was pretty new to the drone and left feeling a lot more confident in it. He took us to some really cool places, I feel like I got to see a lot of Australia most people usually don't get to. He was very knowledgeable and helpful with everything. I hope to join him again in 2027!
Scott is a fantastic mentor and hoist, he gave valuable feedback and we were treated to a magical drone ride.
Just finished an awesome 7 day group workshop of salt lakes and tailing ponds followed by an incredible 4 day private workshop with guru Scott McCook. This man knows his stuff and got us to the places where we got insanely great images. Thoroughly recommend Scott for outstanding aerial photography experiences.
Bungle Bungles, Wyndham & Kununurra Expedition
Enquire now
If you'd like to book, just fill in the form and I'll get back to you, normally within 24 hours, to finish your booking.