Tonga Humpback Whales

Earlier this year, I got the opportunity to travel to Tonga to film Cat Sharks, who runs intimate tours that let people swim with humpback whales. Cat has lived and worked around these giants for years and her knowledge was second to none.

From the first day, it was clear this wasn’t a typical wildlife shoot. Cat has great respect and knowledge on the whales. She reads their moods, waits for them to come closer, and makes sure her guests understand that they’re visitors in the whales’ world.

Filming wasn’t always easy. The days were long, the weather unpredictable, and the whales sometimes shy. But when it all came together it was incredible to film and experience first hand - a mother letting her playful calf get close to us, a heat run of 14 whales and one whale on the final day who knew nothing of social distancing!

What this film represents isn't just a story about whales, but about a woman who’s built her life around them, bringing people to see them, and about the kind of connection that only happens when you respect nature and visit their world.