Information

Digital SLR Landscape & Travel Documentary Photography Workshop
Thursday 17th – Sunday 20th May 2012

Now, we couldn’t miss the opportunity to combine stunning scenery with a feast of West Coast food, wine and entertainment at the Loch Fyne Food Fair, could we?

Our Workshop not only takes you to some of the area’s more well known locations, but we are also fortunate enough to be allowed onto the private Loch Fyne Estate, which covers thousands of acres, and provides unique settings and landscapes that no other tour can.

You can also enjoy the luxury and Scottish hospitality at The Loch Fyne Hotel & Spa, our base throughout this workshop.  Never under-estimate the rejuvenating power of friendly, comfortable accommodation, to set you up perfectly for another full day out on location.  Don’t forget your swimsuit for an end of the day dip or steam!

I hope the information below gets you as excited about this workshop as we are.  It’s a sort of Gourmetography Tour;

Q. Who is the workshop for?
A. This is for anyone interested in landscape photography, fabulous scenery, fresh air, great company and learning tips and tricks to improve their photography and get the most from their camera kit.  With two experienced tutors on hand, we cater for the beginner to keen amateur, or professional wanting to improve their skills.

Q. What is included in the cost?
A. The price includes en suite accommodation for 3 nights at the fabulous Loch Fyne Hotel & Spa, breakfast / packed lunch / dinner at the hotel, except Saturday evening when we will dine at the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar followed by a traditional Ceilidh, transport between photographic locations during the course from the hotel, expert photography tuition from two highly qualified, experienced Photographers.  Plus the chance to visit the Loch Fyne Food Fair (in the field next to the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar, Cairndow).  This is also where the Ceilidh will be held.

Q. How much does this workshop cost?
A. Prices for this four day intensive course are from £1,400 per participant – but remember this includes fabulous accommodation for 3 nights, meals, transport between locations, unique locations, 2 x experienced tutors and a Ceilidh!

Q. What is NOT included in the cost?
A. Travel to/ from workshop by air, sea, rail, car or any other mode of transport you care to select from your home or base,  insurance for you and your belongings, equipment, alcoholic drinks, hotel mini bar, drinks from the bar including soft drinks, tea and coffee, and any additional expenses unless listed above.

Q: What camera and equipment will I need?
A. We recommend that participants have at least a basic SLR with a few lenses.  However any camera will do (Giles won a major photographic competition with just a basic Nikon Coolpix – so it’s your enthusiasm to learn & improve, not your kit we’re interested in). However, we strongly recommend you have a tripod, if possible a remote release, and a selection of graduated neutral density filters, plus plenty of memory cards and those all important batteries!  BUT please don’t buy anything you are unsure of.  The Tutors are on hand to give you advice on photography and the right equipment for you, saving you money!

Q. What clothing should I bring?
A. As we are in the hands of the Scottish weather, it is advisable to bring warm and waterproof clothing and sturdy waterproof walking boots and/or wellington boots.  Even when we are enjoying some R&R, we would recommend sensible clothing and footwear as the Ceilidh is in a marquee in a field!  Maybe leave the Jimmy Choos at home for this one.

Q. How many people per group?
A. This workshop is for a maximum of 8 participants.  With the benefit of two fabulous tutors and two six seater vehicles, giving more flexibility, our workshops are informal and friendly yet educational and informative.  PLUS with the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar and food fair thrown in – delicious!

Q. Do I need to be physically fit to take part?
A. The workshops are created with most fitness levels in mind.  Although the vehicles can get us as close to our selected locations as possible, there may be a bit of walking involved, but we won’t be taking you up mountains!  Maybe the odd, marshy field with a few sheep in to walk across – but isn’t that part of the adventure and possible photo opportunity?  Don’t panic, our fearless leader, Desi Fontaine, would have kittens at the mere mention of the word hike!

Q. Do I need travel insurance?
A. We highly recommend you purchase insurance as we are not liable for loss, expenses and damages arising from cancellations, personal accident, injury and medical costs as well as the loss of personal belongings.

Q. Deposits and payments?
A. A non refundable deposit of £200 is required to book a place on this workshop.

Q. Can we bring non photography partners?
A. It would be awful to think you couldn’t bring your special someone to such a beautiful area.  With so much going on around Loch Fyne over that weekend, there will be plenty to see and do for the non photographically minded.  The hotel also has a fabulous pool and spa facilities to really help them unwind.