Trip Report – Anilao Spring 2026
Text and Images by Dan Bishop
In April 2026, Bluewater conducted two back-to-back macro workshops at Crystal Blue Resort in Anilao. Anilao is a favorite destination for macro photography due to its high density of biodiversity offering an abundance of macro critters to photograph.
Daily Schedule and Underwater Photography Training
The workshop schedule is quite busy. Each day, the group had breakfast from 6-7am, followed by image review at 7:15. We then headed out for our 2 morning dives, often to practice a technique discussed during image review in the morning. Upon returning, guests were treated to a delicious buffet consisting of soup, rice, past, veggies, fish, chicken, and steak/pork. After lunch, a classroom session was conducted to dive into more detail on photography techniques and editing in Lightroom. We then headed out for the afternoon/dusk dives. Dinner was served around 7pm, which again consisted of a generous buffet, followed by another classroom session on various topics: animal behavior, video techniques, lighting, etc.
Experiencing Blackwater Diving in Anilao
Each group also had the opportunity to do a few blackwater dives, which were conducted in the nearby bay over 800 ft of water. This was a first for many of the divers that opted to participate.
Rare Marine Life and Macro Critters Encountered
Over the course of the workshops, we were treated to an abundance of marine life. Oscillating Blue Ring octopus, Flamboyant Cuttlefish laying eggs, many Hairy Frogfish (including a rare Black Hairy Frogfish) were commonly seen. Of course, Anilao is full of Nudibranchs, and we lucky enough to see some rare varieties, including the beautiful Cyerce Elegans and a rare blue Alleni
Documenting Unique Underwater Animal Behavior
We also were lucky enough to witness some great animal behaviors, including various critter tending to their eggs.
Exceptional Hospitality at Crystal Blue Resort
As usual, Crystal Blue Resort was an exceptional host, and they took great care of the entire group. It is so great to see the same staff and dive guides year after year, which is a testament to the strength of the resort.
Final Night Celebration and Contest Winners
On the last night of each workshop, we were treated to a feast of local Philippine fair, followed by a slideshow and announcement of contest winners.
Author
Dan Bishop
Dan is an accomplished underwater photographer based in northern Virginia. He did his first dive at age 14 and has been an avid photographer for more than 30 years. Initially a skydiving photographer and videographer, Dan transitioned his focus to the underwater world, driven by a desire to capture the ocean's stunning beauty. Dan is skilled in both wide-angle and macro photography and has a passion for sharing his knowledge with others, particularly in a structured workshop environment.
View more of Dan's work here: DanBishopPhotography.com
