Cairngorms area 1-2-1 Landscape Photography Tuition


The Experience

Join me for a day in the foothills of the Cairngorms. Explore the forests, rivers, and lochs that make this landscape so unique.

I have lived and worked in this area all my life. These hills and forests aren't just a workplace to me; they are home. Over the decades, I’ve explored the nooks and crannies that don't appear on tourist maps—guiding you to the quieter locations as well as the famous ones.

Highland weather is famously unpredictable, but a lifetime here has taught me how to read the subtle shifts in the sky. Rather than sticking to a rigid plan, I endeavour to put you in the best locations for the weather that particular day throws at us.

  • Atmospheric Forests: If the summits are lost in the "clag," we’ll head into the sheltered ancient pines for intimate woodland studies.
  • Still Waters: If the wind picks up, I know the quiet lochans and waterfalls we can get some nice images
  • Chasing the Light: During the longer days of the year, we may split the day to catch the first light at sunrise and the "Alpenglow" at sunset, allowing us to avoid the flat midday sun and recharge in between.

Improve Your Camera Craft

The experience also gives you the opportunity to improve your camera craft. From beginner to accomplished, you will learn something new. We will work together on:

  • The Exposure Triangle: Mastering the relationship between shutter speed, aperture, and ISO to balance your images perfectly.
  • Working in Manual Mode: Moving away from "Auto" to take full creative control of your exposure and depth of field.
  • Precision Focus: Learning where and how to focus to ensure pin-sharp landscapes from the foreground to the horizon.
  • Compositional Artistry: Finding original stories in the granite, water, and heather.

The Practicalities

1. Investment & Costs

  • Full Day (8 Hours): £200
  • Split Day (Sunrise & Sunset): £200
  • Additional person: £75
  • Deposit: A minimum deposit of 50% is required after booking to secure your date.

2. Food & Drink

Depending on where the light takes us, it may be possible to visit a local cafe during our break. However, it is always wise to bring more food than you think you'll need. Personally, I find I can’t think properly on an empty stomach, and we want your focus to be on the creativity and the landscape, not our appetites! Please ensure you have a packed lunch and plenty of water/hot drinks to keep you going throughout the day.

3. What to Bring

  • Photo Gear:
    • Camera: DSLR or Mirrorless body.
    • Lenses: Preferably a Wide Angle, a Mid-Range zoom, and a 200mm minimum zoom/telephoto.
    • Accessories: A sturdy tripod is essential. Bring spare batteries and memory cards.
    • Filters: Polarising filters and ND filters are highly recommended.
  • Clothing: A reliable layering system including a waterproof shell (jacket/trousers) and a warm mid-layer.
  • Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential. I also recommend bringing wellies, just in case we end up standing in a stream or along a shoreline to get the perfect shot.

4. Exclusions

Please note the following are not included:

  • Insurance: Participants are responsible for their own personal accident and equipment insurance.
  • Equipment & Clothing: You must provide your own gear and outdoor clothing.

5. Fitness & Accessibility

This day is about you. The course is entirely tailored to suit you, from gentle loch-side strolls to more invigorating walks in the foothills. Simply let us know your fitness level and any specific goals in the booking form, and I will select the perfect route to suit you.


Book now