Whale Watching in Hólmavík: a short-form video story

Whale watching in Hólmavík with Láki Tours is an experience that lingers in your heart long after you step back onshore. This September, I had the privilege of creating a short-form video to tell the story of their incredible whale-watching trips. It was a brief that spoke to my soul: to capture the essence of stepping aboard their boat, being led by the incredible naturalist and whale expert Judith Scott, and immersing yourself in the raw beauty of the fjord.

The magick of ethical whale watching

There’s something truly transformative about being the only boat in the fjord. The stillness of the landscape, broken only by the spouts of humpback whales and the rhythmic sound of the ocean, is nothing short of magickal. Judith Scott’s passion and knowledge bring an added depth to the experience—she shares insights into the lives of these magnificent creatures with a reverence that underscores the importance of protecting them.

This is ethical whale watching at its finest. Láki Tours is deeply committed to respecting the natural environment and the whales themselves. Their approach is thoughtful, sustainable, and rooted in a love for the ecosystems they operate in. For me, as a storyteller, this ethos was key to shaping the narrative of the video.

Behind the lens: storytelling through video

The brief was clear: create a short-form video that not only highlights the breathtaking encounters but also tells the story of what it feels like to go out on one of these trips. With my camera and drone in tow, I set out to capture the interplay between the serene fjord, the excitement of spotting whales, and the intimate connection guests feel when they see these gentle giants up close.

Every element of the trip felt cinematic—the hum of the boat as it cut through the fjord, the moments of anticipation as everyone scanned the horizon, and then the awe-filled gasps as humpback whales emerged from the deep. Through careful framing, I sought to convey the wonder of these encounters while keeping the story rooted in the ethical values that define Láki Tours.

Supporting whale research with Whale Wise

This project was particularly meaningful because of Láki Tours’ partnership with Whale Wise. Their contributions of whale images, sightings, and logistical support play a vital role in research efforts. It felt like a full-circle moment to be telling a story that not only celebrates these incredible creatures but also highlights the collaborative efforts to protect them.

The trip itself was a dream—we encountered so many humpback whales, each sighting more awe-inspiring than the last. Every breach, tail slap, and gentle rise felt like a gift, and I worked to capture these moments in a way that would resonate with anyone watching the video.

Bringing stories to life

Creating this short-form video for Láki Tours was a joy. It’s always an honor to translate such profound experiences into visual stories that invite others to step into the narrative. Whale watching in Hólmavík is more than an activity—it’s a reminder of our connection to the wild, the importance of ethical tourism, and the power of place.

If you’re a destination, tour operator, or organisation looking to co-create a video story that captures the heart of your experience, I’d love to collaborate. Let’s create something magickal together—drop me a message to start the conversation.