Capturing Nature’s Magic on Skomer Island

Nestled off the coast of Pembrokeshire, Wales, Skomer Island is a photographer’s paradise waiting to be explored. Known for its unspoiled landscapes and abundant wildlife, this hidden gem offers incredible opportunities for capturing nature in its purest form.

In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to Skomer Island, including the best spots to photograph the island’s star attraction—the puffins.

Overview of Skomer Island

Skomer Island is just off the southwestern coast of Pembrokeshire in Wales. Accessible only by boat/ferry, the island feels remote, even though it’s only about a mile off the mainland.

This small island (less than 3 square km) with no permanent residents has long been recognized for its ecological importance. It was designated a National Nature Reserve in 1959 and later became a Marine Conservation Zone. Its rich biodiversity and unique geological features make it a significant area for both scientific study and nature conservation. It’s also a favorite spot for nature and wildlife photographers, as we’ll cover in this article.

Reaching Skomer Island requires a bit of planning but is well worth the effort. Boats depart from Martin’s Haven, with trips available between April and August (Tuesday through Sunday), with a reduced schedule in September. You should book your trip in advance, as spaces are limited (250 people per day) and often sell out quickly. Most visitors come just for the day, but limited accommodations are available if you’d like to stay overnight.

Puffins

Atlantic Puffins are undoubtedly the main attraction of Skomer Island. These charming seabirds are a delight to photograph, with their colorful beaks and quirky behavior. The island hosts one of the largest puffin colonies in Britain.

The best time to capture puffins is between late April and early July. During this period, the birds are in their breeding season, which means you’ll see them at their most active and vibrant. Some will start to leave the island in early-to-mid July, and most will be gone by the end of the month.

Puffins are fascinating creatures. Their burrow-nesting habits and comical waddling on land provide plenty of photo and video opportunities. Watch for their distinctive “billing” behavior, where pairs rub their beaks together—a perfect moment to capture their unique personalities.

To capture puffins in flight, use a fast shutter speed to freeze their rapid wing beats. A telephoto lens will allow you to keep a respectful distance while still getting close-up shots.

Seabirds

Skomer Island is home to an impressive array of seabird species. From razorbills and guillemots to fulmars and kittiwakes, the island is an excellent spot for seeing and photographing birds. In fact, nearly half the world’s population of the Manx shearwater can be found on Skomer Island.

Head to areas like North Haven and the Garland Stone for the best chances to capture these seabirds in their natural habitat. Cliffs and rocky outcrops provide dramatic backdrops and are popular nesting sites for many of these birds.

Seals

Skomer Island isn’t just for bird lovers; it also boasts a thriving population of Atlantic grey seals. These marine mammals can often be seen lounging on rocks or swimming in the clear waters around the island.

Locations like the Garland Stone and South Haven are prime spots for observing and photographing these playful creatures.

Cliffs and Coastal Views

The cliffs of Skomer Island offer stunning vistas perfect for landscape photography. The rugged coastline, dramatic rock formations, and expansive ocean views provide endless opportunities for capturing breathtaking seascapes.

Wildflower Meadows

Skomer Island’s wildflower meadows are a vibrant display of color during the spring and summer months, which conveniently overlaps with the best times to photograph puffins. These wildflowers provide opportunities for macro photography, as well as colorful foreground interest in your landscape shots.

Best Photography Spots on Skomer Island

The Wick

The Wick is possibly the most popular spot on Skomer Island for photographing puffins up close. When you arrive on the island by boat, a walking path will lead you to The Wick. It provides an incredible ocean background for your photos.

The Garland Stone

The Garland Stone is a must-visit for anyone looking to capture seals and stunning coastal views. The dramatic rock formation off the island’s coast and clear waters make it a perfect spot for wildlife and landscape photography.

North Haven

North Haven, on the northeast part of the island, is a great area for photographing seabirds and marine life. The sheltered bay provides a safety for a variety of species, making it an ideal spot for observing and capturing their behavior.

Skomer Head

For panoramic landscape shots and sunset photography, head to Skomer Head (about a 3-mile hike). The elevated vantage point offers sweeping views of the island and the surrounding sea.

Recommended Gear for Skomer Island Photography

A telephoto lens is a must for wildlife photography, allowing you to capture close-up shots without disturbing your subjects. A wide-angle lens is equally important for capturing vast landscapes and dramatic coastal views.

A sturdy tripod will stabilize your shots. Don’t forget to bring extra batteries and memory cards, as you’ll likely be taking a lot of photos.

The weather on Skomer Island can be unpredictable, so protecting your gear is crucial. Waterproof covers for your camera and lenses are a good investment and consider bringing a raincoat and waterproof boots for yourself.

Final Thoughts

Skomer Island has plenty to offer, from its charming puffins to its dramatic landscapes and vibrant wildflower meadows. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a nature enthusiast looking to capture stunning shots, Skomer Island has something for everyone.