Glencoe and Beyond Photography Workshop Tour (March 9th to 13th)

Join me for a five-day photography workshop in the breathtaking Scottish Highlands. We’ll be based in Glencoe, staying in a comfortable self-catering cottage, and exploring some of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes—including Buachaille Etive Mòr, Kilchurn Castle, Corpach, and Castle Stalker. Why Glencoe? Glencoe is nothing short of awe-inspiring, earning its reputation as one of Scotland’s most spectacular locations. It was the first place I visited in Scotland years ago, and it remains close to my heart. With its dramatic mountains, rivers, and lochs, it truly is a photographer’s paradise, offering both easily accessible vantage points and more challenging high-ground locations for those who wish to explore further. Photography Locations We’ll cover a variety of locations, primarily along the A82 corridor, from Rannoch Moor to Glencoe Village. Highlights include: Loch na h-Achlaise & The Black Mount – A stunning viewpoint across the loch. Buachaille Etive Mòr (“The Buckle”) – One of Scotland’s most recognizable mountains, best photographed from multiple angles, including Black Rock Cottage and the River Coupall. The Three Sisters – Towering peaks with excellent vantage points along the river. Glencoe Lochan – A peaceful loch within walking distance of our accommodation, backed by the Pap of Glencoe. Glen Etive – A scenic glen, made famous by the movie Skyfall, with waterfalls and a fjord-like loch at its end. Kilchurn Castle (Loch Awe) – A stunning, classic photography spot, especially when the water is still enough for reflections. Castle Stalker – A picturesque castle on an island in a sea loch. Corpach – Featuring an abandoned boat on the beach with Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain, in the background. If time and weather allow, we may also explore Glenfinnan, Glen Nevis, and Steall Falls. Why March? This workshop takes place in March for several reasons: More sociable sunrise/sunset times – No need for 3 AM wake-up calls! At the start of March sunrise is still approx 07:15. Fewer tourists – Enjoy quieter landscapes. Possible snow-capped peaks – With a bit of luck, the mountains will be dusted in snow, adding an extra layer of drama to our shots. No midges! – A big bonus if you’ve experienced them in the summer. Weather in Scotland is unpredictable, and we could experience all four seasons in a single day. That said, we’ll make the most of whatever conditions we’re given. Workshop Structure & Flexibility This workshop is flexible and relaxed, designed to maximize shooting opportunities based on weather conditions. Our primary focus will be golden hour photography, heading out for sunrise and sunset with locations potentially added on as we travel. During the day, we’ll have time for post-processing sessions, image reviews, and breaks for meals at our cottage. If conditions are more suited to moody daytime photography, we may adjust our plans accordingly (for example, visiting Glen Etive in overcast weather). I’ll provide a nightly briefing with the next day’s plan based on the latest weather forecast. I’ll guide you through my workflow and techniques, demonstrating composition, focusing, tripod use, filter techniques, exposure blending, and working with light. We’ll also cover advanced techniques as the week progresses. Accommodation & Meals We’ll be staying at Callart View, a self-catering cottage located on Loch Leven in Glencoe Village. This former guesthouse offers the convenience of en-suite bedrooms, giving everyone their own space. Self-catering allows us flexibility with meal times—we can cook in the cottage or choose from local dining options. Most evenings, we’ll be back by 18:00, giving us plenty of time for dinner. We typically celebrate the final night with a group meal out. Transport & Travel Transport during the workshop is provided, so you can relax and enjoy the scenery. If arriving via public transport, buses run through Glencoe, and trains stop at Fort William or Bridge of Orchy, with connecting buses available. Booking Details A £400 non-refundable deposit secures your place. The balance is due 8 weeks before the workshop. Payment options, including full or balance payments via credit card, Klarna or PayPal credit, are available on the website. Upon booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a kit list, discount codes, meeting details, and a pre-workshop questionnaire to help tailor the experience to your needs. I have two sets of Kase Filters available for the group to use along with an exclusive discount codeprovided upon booking. Ideal if you are new to filters, want to try out magnetic filters or looking to swap systems so please ask to look, even if you have some currently. I carry a variety of stepping rings too to fit most lenses. I will also have spare tripods available for use. The workshop concludes on Friday at 10:00 AM, allowing us to catch a final sunrise before departure.