Species profile
About this species
The Common Guillemot is a large seabird belonging to the auk family, characterised by its striking black & white plumage & upright posture. It breeds in dense, noisy colonies on rocky coastal cliffs & sea stacks around the North Atlantic & North Pacific. It is an accomplished diver, using its wings to propel itself underwater in pursuit of fish.
Rocky coastal cliffs, sea stacks & offshore islands for breeding; open ocean & inshore waters for the remainder of the year. Found along North Atlantic coastlines including the British Isles, Scandinavia & Iceland.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Common Guillemot with us in Iceland & Scotland.
These departures are part of our Europe programme.
In the field, Robin Lowry helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Late spring to early summer (May to July) during the breeding season, when colonies are at peak activity. Early morning light provides warm, directional illumination on cliff faces & reduces harsh shadows.
Visit a busy cliff colony during the breeding season for close, cooperative subjects with dramatic backdrops. Use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/2000s to freeze the motion of birds landing & taking off from ledges. A telephoto lens of 400mm or longer is recommended when shooting from a distance, though colony viewpoints can allow shorter focal lengths.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Common Guillemot
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.