Magical woodlands of the Cairngorms National Park : 5 night photography workshop
“The tree which moves some to tears of joy is in the eyes of others only a green thing that stands in the way. Some see nature all ridicule and deformity... and some scarce see nature at all. But to the eyes of the man of imagination, nature is imagination itself.” William Blake
The Cairngorms is home to some of the most fabulous woodlands in the UK. Scots Pine (including some massive granny pines) and birch trees thrive in the area, with some fabulous rowans and many trees literally dripping in Fruticose lichen. All this and with a wonderful mountainous backdrop and lochs and lochans interspersing the landscapes. The moorlands are wonderful too, with heather and Deschampsia and Molinia grasses prevalent.
Our primary focus will be woodland and some of the smaller, more intimate details to be found within the landscape - looking at ways of capturing our surroundings with more abstract interpretations, and trying to recreate the fabulous mood and ambience to be found in this wonderful part of the Highlands. We'll be helping you to get out of your comfort zone and to try a few different techniques and approaches to photographing the many characters we will encounter in the forest.
With a small group of just six clients and based in a secluded private lodge, we will have plenty of opportunity for image reviews and digital skills sessions where we will show you some of the different techniques available when processing your photographs, including exposure blending, using layers and masks and how to work efficiently in both Lightroom and Photoshop. The emphasis is on encouraging group discussion and lively debate between all participants and with sunset not being too late at this time of year, we anticpate having time after dinner each night to share our thoughts and images amongst the group.
This helps take the photographs shot on location through the digital darkroom, ready for print or web display. Lizzie and Alex will share their processing tips with you and are also on hand for support and questions post workshop. We believe this strikes a good balance between shooting on location and practical help with the necessary post production side so that you can leave with a wealth of new knowledge and skills to compliment your photography out in the field.
Our workshops are very much informal in style - we like to work with our group to ensure we give you the best possible experience and are flexible in our approach to ensure you have a fulfilling and rewarding workshop. We also place great importance on our meals together and are thrilled to be holding this workshop in a private lodge for the first time.
This is a Tripod Travels workshop - running in conjunction with good friend and super photographer / teacher, Alex Hare. Alex and I have thoroughly enjoyed working together for several years now and I’ve included a link to Alex’s website here. Also, for more information about my approach to photography workshops, please have a look at this page. If you'd like to see a few testimonials from previous clients, then please look here.
Please scroll down to the bottom of the page for some more detailed information in question and answer format.
Practicalities
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Where will we be staying
We will be staying at Ballintean, a wonderfully situated private lodge tucked away in Invereshie and Inshriach National Nature Reserve with en suite rooms and all meals provided; with excellent facilities for image reviews and relaxation after dinner and at any times that suit us
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How do I get there?
We can meet you at Inverness airport if you prefer to fly, or at Kingussie train sation if you prefer to take the train; there will be plenty of parking for anyone wanting to drive. We'll be meeting the Easyjet flight from Gatwick that gets in at 14.10 on the 15th, and then dropping off at the airport on the 20th at around 12.30. Train times are not yet released but we would anticipate a train that gets in c.15.00 on the 15th would work well, and an 11/11.30 departure on the 20th. Please confirm with us before booking transport.
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What level of photographer will this suit?
Photographers of any level are welcome, although we would suggest that it is best suited to those with some experience given the complex woodlands we will be photographing. However, with a small group of only 6 participants, and two tutors, there will be plenty of of opportunity for us to fine tune the help we give you.
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How much walking is involved?
Although there are plenty of locations that require a shorter walk, to make the most of what the area has to offer, we expect to do the occasional longer walk. Many of the woodlands and loch paths are relatively level but there are a few steeper locations that we hope to visit. A reasonable degree of fitness will help you get more out of the trip, but you can always sit out anything that feels too much. Please ask, if in doubt.
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Can I bring my drone?
In order to offer everyone the same experience and enjoyment of the natural spaces we visit, free from the visual and sound issues of a drone flying in or around us, we don't accommodate their use on our workshops.
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Can I borrow a Lee filters kit?
You are welcome to borrow a Lee filter kit - including big stopper, little stopper and ND grads. Please note this is at your own risk, although we've had no breakages to date! Please ask in advance and advise of the filter ring sizes of any lenses you may be bringing.
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Why have you included a carbon footprint offset contribution?
Given the fragile state of our environment, we feel that it is vitally important we all do what we can to help protect and preserve our precious planet. All of our workshops now include a very small fee - typically up to £10 per person - which we donate to a number of certified carbon offset schemes. You can read more about this here.