Getting Ready for the Apex Adventures Isle of Mull Tour

With our Apex Adventures Isle of Mull tour just around the corner, I thought I’d share a behind-the-scenes look at how I prepare for a trip like this, from the camera gear I’ll be packing, to the clothing that keeps me comfortable (and dry!) when out in the field.

Good preparation is key. It means I can fully focus on the incredible wildlife encounters ahead, without worrying about whether I’ve brought the right lens or if my feet will end up soaked in the loch.

You always end up loving kelp by the time you leave Mull!

Camera Gear – My Wildlife Set-Up

When it comes to wildlife photography on Mull, versatility is everything. The island offers opportunities ranging from White-tailed eagles soaring overhead to Otters hunting in the seaweed along the shoreline, so I pack for all scenarios.

• Sony A1 + 400mm f/2.8 GM – My main set-up. The A1’s speed and autofocus are unmatched for fast-moving subjects like Eagles, and the 400mm delivers exceptional sharpness even in low light.

• Sony A1 + 200–600mm – My second A1 body is paired with the 200–600mm, mainly for video work. The flexible focal range allows me to capture close portraits and wide environmental footage without swapping lenses.

• Sony 70–200mm – Perfect when I want a slightly wider view, whether it’s otters in their environment, landscapes, or behind-the-scenes shots of the group in action.

• Ground pod or beanbag – Essential when lying down to photograph Otters at eye level. These provide stability while keeping the camera close to the ground, without the bulk of a tripod.

• Tripod with gimbal head – At certain times, a tripod is necessary – especially when photographing Eagles in flight or working with heavy long lenses for extended periods.

• Hand-held on the boat – When photographing Eagles from the boat, I find it much better to go hand-held rather than use a tripod. Your hands and body naturally counteract the movement of the boat, giving smoother, steadier results than trying to fight the waves with a tripod.

Carrying two A1 bodies means no time lost changing lenses in the field – and most importantly, no missed moments.

Clothing – Blending In & Staying Dry

Mull’s weather can change in an instant, and many of the best wildlife encounters happen right at the water’s edge. That means being ready to get muddy, salty, and damp.

• Camouflage waterproofs – When photographing Otters, I often find myself lying in kelp. Staying low and blending in is crucial, and camo waterproofs keep me dry while helping me remain hidden.

• Wellies – A solid pair of wellington boots is essential. With tidal lochs and marshy ground, keeping feet dry makes all the difference on long days out.

• Layers – The island can shift from bright sunshine to windswept rain in minutes, so plenty of layers are essential for staying comfortable.

Vlogging Equipment

Alongside stills and video, I also vlog the tours to share the adventure with everyone back home. For this, I keep my set-up lightweight and reliable:

• DJI Osmo Pocket 3 – Compact, stabilised, and perfect for quick updates and walk-and-talk filming.

• Lapel Mic / Wireless Audio – Clear audio is just as important as sharp visuals.

• Mini Tripod / Grip – Handy for stable hands-free filming or smoother walking shots.

Getting eye level with the Otters is key.

Final Thoughts

For me, preparation is all about making sure the gear won’t get in the way of the experience. On Mull, the focus is always the wildlife – from Eagles to Otters – but having the right equipment, from waterproofs to a beanbag, a tripod when needed, and even hand-holding on the boat, allows me to capture those encounters in the best way possible.

If you’re joining us on the Apex Adventures Isle of Mull tour, hopefully this gives you an idea of how I prepare – and maybe a few useful tips for your own packing list. I can’t wait to be back out on the lochs, lying in the kelp, and under the wings of those incredible White-tailed eagles.

Mike Phelps - August 2025