Next Landscape Photography Workshop in Scotland dates: September 12th – 19th, 2020
Journey back in time to a place of untamed natural beauty, rich with myth, and legend. From the towering medieval castles in the lowlands to the sweeping landscape of the highlands, in Scotland, adventure awaits.
From the windswept moors that were once battlegrounds to the hidden mysteries of Loch Ness, Scotland has captivated visitors for centuries. You will see the towering mountains of Glencoe, experience the out of this world landscape of the Isle of Skye and warm yourself on a visit to a world class scotch distillery.
Scotland Landscape Photography Workshop – 7 Days
- Where: Scotland
- When: September 12th – 19th, 2020
- Who: 8 Landscape photography enthusiasts.
- What: A 8-day landscape photography workshop in Scotland, catering to shooting in the best locations at the best time of day for light. You will travel and learn in an informal small group setting, with a flexible schedule (including free time to explore) and customized photography tips and tutoring in the field to match the group members.
- Why: Total photography immersion, in a safe and relaxed environment, with an experienced professional photographer and instructor providing lots of hands-on help.
Join us on this scenic landscape photography workshop in Scotland as we travel from Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye. Passing through lochs, mountains, fairy pools, castles, and whiskey distilleries along the way.
How much is this workshop?
This workshop is designed to offer you both adventure and comfort.
We stay in comfortable and clean rooms in properties with local character and style when possible.
All your meals are included and we also take care of little incidentals like water daily, entrance fees for all attractions, and snacks on the transport for a smooth easy experience. So there are no surprises or hidden costs.
Non-photographers welcome!!
If your spouse or friend is interested in coming along, but they’re not a photographer, we’ve got a couple of spots open just for that, at a special price.
We will accept a maximum of two non-photography spouses or partners on this workshop at a special reduced rate. See the pricing section below for more information.
| Group Size | Price |
|---|---|
| 6 – 8 Photographers/students Nice group size with a maximum of 8 people |
$4995 USD |
| Non-Photography attendees Price for non-photography spouse or friend |
$3995 USD |
Maximum number of photography participants: 8
Remaining spots for photographers: SOLD OUT
Non-Photographer Price:
- Does NOT include any photography tutoring or assistance.
- A maximum of 2 non-photo members only will be accepted for this workshop.
- Includes a shared room with their partner/spouse, and meals, transportation and entry into all sites as included in the main workshop price.
Single Supplement Price:
- Prices quoted are for double occupancy.
- NOTE: You will be paired with someone of the same gender if you do not have a travel partner and request a roommate – if one is not available you will be charged the single supplement.
- Price for a single room is an additional $1195
Do you love to travel? Are you are as obsessed with travel and photography as we are?
Then you need to join us in Scotland for a highland adventure you will not want to miss. Not only will you learn how to take better landscape photographs, through the support of our expert teacher, but you can rest assured you will travel to some of the most stunning landscape photography locations Scotland has to offer.
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The tour exceeded my expectations.
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The Best Light
This landscape photography workshop in Scotland has been designed to make sure each day you are always photographing in the best light possible.
Over the eight days, you will learn the best time of day to photograph and how to overcome any challenging situations (like weather, tourists, etc.) you may face with a focus on capturing the inspirational Scottish landscape.
Expect mountains at sunrise, castles at sunset, and everything in between.
The Best Locations
The locations in this workshop are picked not only to give you a variety of different photo opportunities but to also test and push your landscape photography knowledge. Ultimately this will help you become a better photographer.
This is a custom designed landscape workshop, by a photographer, for photography enthusiasts. What you can expect is a journey through the highlands and the Isle of Skye in Scotland.
From iconic historical sites to incredible castles, Scotland doesn’t disappoint.
Less Rushed
Nobody likes to be rushed. So rest assured, on our photography workshops, we prefer to take our time.
We always keep our group sizes small to make sure you have the time you need to get the best photographs possible. That means if you feel like taking a break, and skipping a location or exploring on your own, that’s not a problem.
We are here to support your photographic passion, and if that means taking a break that’s fine by us!
Beautiful Castles & Landscapes
Photographers love Scotland, and for good reason. In a country brimming with stories of Loch Ness Monsters and Highland warriors, it’s easy to understand why.
Like medieval castles? In this landscape workshop, you will photograph both sunrise and sunset at the enchanting Eilean Donan Castle.
With picnic lunches at Talisker Bay and hearty dinners in traditional Scottish Inns, on this workshop, even your meals will have a sense of fun and adventure.
Awaken your senses with a whiskey tasting at the Talisker distillery and learn about the traditional art of malt whiskey distilling. Then put your knowledge to the test by sampling the sumptuous single malts.
One-on-One Access to the workshop leader
Come along and join us on a journey through one of the safest and most awe-inspiring destinations in this part of the world.
Your workshop leader is sure to work in some special surprises. Is light painting or food photography up your alley? We’ll add in the fun, offbeat photo outings to play with specific skills and photo tricks.
We specially-design our workshop as a small group experience. You’ll have plenty of room to find just the right light and with a maximum 8:1 ratio of students to photo leader, you have easy one-on-one access to your experienced workshop leader.
We will only be accepting a maximum of 8 photography participants in this photography workshop.
Improve Your Landscape Photography
If you like photo vacations with an emphasis on improving your photography skills at the same time, a smaller group presents a greater chance you’ll learn what you came to – and then some!
Over the course of the workshop, you will get help in areas you may be struggling with, in a small group setting, out in the field.
This will help maximize your learning opportunities and give you time to get individual help, ask questions, get your images reviewed (time and schedule permitting) and allow us to customize the workshop dynamically based on guest needs and skill level.
Scottish Castles & Landscapes – Delve into Scotland’s Rich Culture
Overflowing with a rich history, it is impossible not to be inspired by Scotland. From castles to Lighthouses. Placid lochs to the tempestuous North Sea. The flora and fauna of the moors to the rugged beauty of the Nevis Range. Scotland is a country of extremes just waiting for you to explore.
With such magnificent scenery, it really is no wonder Scotland has played the backdrop in so many Hollywood movies – some of which you will get to visit on this workshop. If landscape photography is your thing, you will struggle to find many other places in the world that match up to Scotland.
Join us as we travel from historic Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye. Passing through volcanic Glencoe to scenic Fort William. We pause at Kyle of Lochalsh the gateway to the furthest point on our workshop, the picturesque Isle of Skye.
Come along on this exciting, workshop, designed by photographers for photographers of all levels. Scotland provides the scene, all you have to do is take the shot. Will you join us?
I felt connected. And that difference, shows in my pictures.
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This is a tentative schedule, may not be exactly as shown here:
Day 1 – Edinburgh > Glencoe (L, D)
Our trip begins at our meeting point at the Marriott Edinburgh airport hotel this morning where you will be met by your workshop leader.
After a brief meet and greet enjoying traditional shortbread and British tea (or coffee), we will commence our journey toward Glencoe.
We will spend the afternoon photographing the stunning landscape from various points all offering very different photo opportunities. The main objective here is to work and move with the changing light that fills the valley throughout the afternoon and adjust our composition accordingly.
We will end our day with a sunset shoot at a famous spot with its own lonely cottage in the shadow of the vast mountains.
Day 2 – Glencoe > Kilchurn Castle > Fort William (B, L, D)
A relatively short early morning drive will see us arrive at the picturesque Kilchurn Castle for sunrise. As the rays of the morning light begin to illuminate the castle perched on a loch, we will keep our fingers cross for some of the famous mist that often appears in the early morning. In the right conditions, the scene looks like a fairy-tale!
After breakfast, we make the short drive to Fort William and the Nevis Range where we will take the UK’s only gondola up Scotland’s eighth highest mountain. Once at the top of Aonach Moor, we will enjoy a photo walk followed by some lunch.
Once back down the mountain we will take a drive to photograph the iconic Old Boat of Corpach before continuing on to our hotel for our evening meal.
Day 3 – Glencoe > Kyle of Lochalsh > Isle of Skye (B, L, D)
We continue our journey through the spectacular Scottish landscape and head to arguably the most beautiful castle in Scotland. The iconic Eilean Donan Castle is the perfect spot to practice our sunset and especially our blue hour photography.
After dinner at a local establishment, we will continue to our hotel in the heart of the Isle of Skye.
Day 4 – Isle of Skye (B, L, D)
We have waited long enough… it’s time to sample some of that famous Scottish whiskey.
We head to Talisker Bay where we will spend the morning photographing its stunning beach. It’s then time for a guided tour and tasting at the Talisker Distillery.
You’ll be forgiven for overindulging on the world-class whiskey so after a few hours rest we will drive along the famous “road to Elgol” in time to photograph the picturesque Elgol Bay with the Cuillin mountains in the background at sunset.
The combination of the wild sea and rocks provide a great opportunity to practice our slow exposure photography.
Day 5 – Isle of Skye (B, L, D)
This morning we will continue to explore the Isle of Skye and particularly the area around the famous Old Man of Storr. After lunch, we head across the road from our hotel to photograph one of the most famous scenes in this region, the Sligachan Bridge. At first glance, it may not look spectacular but, framed correctly it provides a wonderful composition.
We will spend the late afternoon at the magical Fairy Pools. Yes, that’s right fairy pools! We will photograph the beautiful rock pools and waterfalls filled with crystal clear water focusing on framing and composition. There are numerous waterfalls along this route so the possibilities are endless!
Day 6 – Isle of Skye (B, L, D)
Our penultimate day offers the out of this world landscape of the Quiraing. This amazing location has been the backdrop of many Hollywood sci-fi movies and it’s easy to see why when you see it. We will be arriving for an early morning shoot to catch the warm glow of the sun on the landscape. It’s then onto Fairy Glenn, another out of this world landscape.
Our afternoon shoot will see us go to Neist Point lighthouse for sunset. But before that, we’ll make a detour at the beautiful Dunvegan Castle to explore the grounds before continuing to Neist Point.
Day 7 – Isle of Skye > Edinburgh (B, L, D)
This morning we will have some free time to review images from the week and discuss any other points before making our way back to Edinburgh. As we leave the Isle of Skye we cross the “Skye Bridge” and drive past Eilean Donan Castle one more time. We will arrive in Edinburgh in the afternoon and there will be some free time to explore the city or even indulge in some shopping.
This evening we will have our final farewell dinner and say our goodbyes.
Day 8 – Leave for home (B)
You are free to enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel before making your journey home.
Alternatively, you can choose to extend your trip, at your own expense, and stay on a few more days in Edinburgh or even head to Glasgow.
I Hadn't Anticipated the Camaraderie Among the Group
The tour FAR exceeded my expectations - I expected that I would learn more about photography, which I did, but I hadn’t anticipated the camaraderie among the group and the friendship development.
I learnt new techniques, for example blue hour, street photography, portraits, light trails, and panning.
Not only does your photography improve on a tour, but also you experience the culture by mixing with locals. It’s not just a bus tour to visit the main sights
Your Photo workshop leader:
Kav Dadfar
Your workshop leader for the Scotland photo workshop is Kav Dadfar, a full-time photographer and writer based on the outskirts of London. Kav has been visiting Scotland ever since he was a “wee lad” and has returned numerous times to photograph its stunning landscape.
From exploring historic Edinburgh to hiking the Quiraing loop in wind and fog. From avoiding the midges in the faraway shores of the Orkney Isles to sleeping in the car waiting for the right light in Glencoe, the lure of this mythical land keeps pulling him back.
Kav has a wealth of experience in photographing high-end stock shots as well as shooting assignments and commercial work for various clients over the years. He brings all of his experience and knowledge with him to help you get the best images possible on this workshop.
Not all workshops are made the same
Let’s take a closer look a few things. If you’re looking at other Scotland landscape workshops and doing some comparisons, here are some factors to consider:
#1 – We have scheduled this workshop in September which is a good time of year to go because the weather is usually better.
Many photography workshops go to Scotland in October or November when prices are lower, but the chances of inclement weather are MUCH higher. So we’ve decided to go when it will give you a better chance to get your best photos and not have constant rain, pea soup fog or even snow. So keep in mind the prices will reflect that. You can save a few bucks if you’re willing to take a chance in the late fall OR come with us in September!
#2 – We include almost everything – we go to castles, a lighthouse, head up a mountain on a gondola and on a whiskey distillery tour and tasting.
All of the activities and events are included in your workshop price as well as all the meals. Many other tours DO NOT include meals on their tours. Make sure you check listed inclusions.
#3 – Insured & Professional Drivers
Please take notice that Scotland has strict laws for drivers and chauffeurs, as such watch out for low-cost tours or workshops that claim they will be doing the driving and “pick you up”. Make sure they have the proper license, insurance, and are doing so legally. If not, you are putting yourself at risk. It’s not worth saving a few dollars – we only use professional drivers with all the proper legal requirements because we put your safety first!
These things can make a big difference in the price, so look closely at what is included.
Cost of the Workshop
We have lowered the maximum number of photo participants on this workshop to 8. This is less than many other Scotland workshops which include 15 – 20 people – please look at that when researching and comparing workshops. Keeping the group sizes small allows for a smaller, more intimate group in order to give you the best experience.
This means you will have more time with the workshop leader, and a really nice group size.
The minimum number of people required to run the workshop is six.
| Group Size | Price |
|---|---|
| 6 – 8 Photographers/students Nice group size with a maximum of 8 people |
$4995 USD |
| Non-photographers Price for non-photography spouse or friend. |
$3995 USD |
Maximum number of photography participants: 8
Remaining spots for photographers: SOLD OUT
Non-Photographer Price:
- Does NOT include any photography tutoring or assistance.
- A maximum of 2 non-photo members only will be accepted for this workshop.
- Includes a shared room with their partner/spouse, and meals, transportation and entry into all sites as included in the main workshop price.
Single Supplement Price:
- Prices quoted are for double occupancy.
- NOTE: You will be paired with someone of the same gender if you do not have a travel partner and request a roommate – if one is not available you will be charged the single supplement.
- Price for a single room is an additional $1195.
The price of the workshop includes:
- 7 Nights of hotel accommodations.
- Meals – 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners (includes non-alcoholic beverages).
- Air-conditioned transportation – included professional driver, fuel, and insurance.
- Excursions (Gondola).
- All entrance fees
- Organized photo shoots.
- Photography lessons in the field and image reviews one-on-one (as time permits) – photo participants only.
- Photography tutoring and help as needed, you just have to ask (photo participants only).
- Portage tips for bags.
The price DOES NOT include:
- Your flight or other travel to Scotland.
- Tips for your driver, and workshop leader.
- Accommodation in Edinburgh.
- Alcoholic beverages.
- Personal spending.
- Optional activities like being fitted for chain mail or a kilt, storming a castle, spa treatments, etc.
Getting to Edinburgh: Edinburgh is well connected to the rest of the UK with regular flights, trains, and even buses. However, Edinburgh is also a well-connected international airport. Make your way to your lodging in Edinburgh City or close to the airport for the workshop start date. Public transport, Ubers or taxis are easily accessible from the airport, the train station or city center.
We will pick you up at a designated meeting place in Edinburgh on Day one and drop you off at the same location at the end of the workshop.
NOTE: Accommodation in Edinburgh is not included.
We recommend arriving a day or two early in order to get acclimatized to the time zone.
Flights home from Scotland: The workshop ends and you depart from Edinburgh so make your travel arrangements accordingly.
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If you want a photo excursion that offers you a chance to experience what Cuba is really like on a realistic local level the Digital Photo Mentor tour to Cuba is for you. When I was on the tour I sometimes wished for a fancy hotel but when I did a tour and stayed in a fancy hotel I realized I was missing what Cuba was really like.
I did two different trips of Cuba.
While they were both good, if I had only taken the second trip and not the DPM one, I would not have had any idea of what life in Cuba is really like.
The trip I took with Darlene and the group was one of the highlights of anything I had ever done.
FAQs
What is the physical fitness level needed for this workshop?
While we have made every effort to ensure that we keep walks easy and short distances, for most locations there will be some walking involved. This will be on rough terrain with rocks and sometimes muddy.
If you are in good health and fitness level, you will be fine. But this workshop is NOT recommended for people with mobility issues.
Will there be much walking uphill?
Some of our walks will involve some gentle uphill walking. But as long as you are of a decent level of fitness you shouldn’t find them difficult.
What skill level do I have to be in photography?
We encourage all skill levels to join us on this workshop. It is not about what you know it’s about doing photography together, enjoying the adventure, and learning a few things along the way. Whatever your level you can get some tips from the workshop leader. We do however recommend you have a basic level of knowledge and experience using your camera. You don’t even have to be a photographer, but can come along and appreciate the relaxed pace of this workshop.
What sort of clothing and equipment should I bring?
Ideally, you should bring comfortable outdoor, quick drying clothes in case there is a downpour of rain. A waterproof jacket and some waterproof trousers might also come in handy. Walking poles are also useful but not essential.
We may encounter very muddy and soggy ground and we will cross a couple of small streams when walking along the Fairy Pools. So comfortable well-fitted walking boots and socks are vital to protecting your feet and ankles. Sneakers are not suitable for most of the days on this trip.
Why is the schedule tentative? Will things change?
As with any location photography, we are reliant on the weather.
Weather in Scotland has historically been good in September, however as we will be in Highlands, adverse weather may cause us to have to change our plans slightly. For example, high winds or fog may mean the gondolas could be closed that day.
What if I don’t have a roommate but don’t want to pay the extra for a single?
If you request to share a room and we cannot match you with a roommate you will be required to pay the single supplement fee. We do our best to pair everyone up but due to gender mismatches, we may not always have equal numbers of males or females. You can certainly bring a friend along to share.
Traveling with Darlene and DPM Tours is a series of unexpected, unusual and unique experiences to be savoured and enjoyed.
Easy way to open ones eyes and heart to different worlds and cultures.
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Great opportunity and safe environment to do so
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Our Photo workshops & Workshops
Click here for our complete list of photo workshops of Central America, Africa, Asia, and South America, and if you’d like more hands-on, photography education, you’ll love one of our workshops, held in Western Canada and Scotland.