Species profile
About this species
The common dolphin is a highly social marine mammal found in warm temperate & tropical oceans worldwide. It is recognised by its distinctive hourglass pattern of yellow & grey on its flanks, along with a dark cape running from the rostrum to the dorsal fin. Common dolphins are known for their energetic behaviour, frequently bow-riding vessels & leaping clear of the water in large, boisterous groups.
Open oceanic & coastal waters of temperate & tropical seas worldwide, often found in deep offshore waters but also frequenting continental shelf edges & upwelling zones rich in fish & squid.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Common Dolphin with us in the United States.
These departures are part of our North America programme.
In the field, David Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Spring & summer months offer the best light & highest activity levels, particularly in the morning when seas tend to be calmer & dolphins are often feeding actively near the surface.
Use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/1000s to freeze the motion of leaping & bow-riding dolphins. Position yourself at the bow of a boat to anticipate surfacing behaviour & capture sharp images as they ride the pressure wave. A telephoto lens in the range of 300-500mm will allow you to fill the frame while maintaining a safe & respectful distance from the animals.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Common Dolphin
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.