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Embark on a breathtaking journey through Scotland’s autumnal tapestry of color and grandeur on our landscape photography tour. Explore and photograph the famous landscapes of Glencoe, where rugged peaks and serene lochs collide, then venture to the enchanting Isle of Skye, a realm of mist-shrouded mountains and dramatic seascapes. Capture the magic of fall in every frame.
Embark on a mesmerizing photography tour through the enchanting landscapes of Scotland, where each day unfolds a new opportunity to capture the magic of autumn. Our journey commences just outside the vibrant city of Edinburgh, where an inspiring briefing sets the tone for the adventure ahead and presents you with what Scotland has to offer.
As we delve into Scotland’s extraordinary beauty, you’ll be captivated by the rugged grandeur of Glencoe, the mystical allure of the Isle of Skye, and the enchanting castles that dot the landscape. From Eilean Donan Castle, with its ethereal sunset views, to Kilchurn Castle, standing proud on Loch Awe’s shores, history and natural beauty intertwine.
Amidst the landscapes, you’ll witness serene lochs reflecting the fiery hues of autumn leaves, mist-shrouded mountains that loom like ancient sentinels, and a colorful harbor offering a perfect canvas for your lens.
Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a novice eager to hone your skills, our immersive tour promises to be a visual and sensory delight, ensuring you leave with a treasure trove of captivating images and unforgettable memories. Join us on this extraordinary photographic journey and bring Scotland’s autumn splendor to life through your lens.
On the Scotland photography tour, we will regularly take advantage of soft light and shoot at sunrise and sunset. In addition, we have an interesting program in place for the mid-day because, in the fall, the sun is low on the horizon, making for soft light throughout the day.
You will also have the opportunity to learn how to make your images pop during our post-processing sessions.
If you cancel:
An additional cancellation fee of 150 EUR applies to cover the payment fees and our service fee.
We will meet at the hotel near Edinburgh Airport for our welcoming dinner and opening briefing at 6:30 p.m. on October 4. We will arrange your airport transfer to the hotel.
Our inaugural day begins with a hearty breakfast at our hotel, preparing for a day of adventure (and transportation). Our journey commences with a scenic drive from Edinburgh to Glencoe, a 110-mile route that leads us to the heart of Scotland’s rugged grandeur.
We’ll indulge in a delightful lunch amidst the dramatic mountains and serene lochs.
As the day unfolds, we set our sights on Eilean Donan Castle, a historic treasure that dates back to the 13th century. This enchanting castle is a visual masterpiece and boasts the distinction of being one of the most photographed castles in the UK. Arriving just in time for the captivating spectacle of sunset and the magical blue hour, we’ll capture the castle’s timeless allure and its spellbinding history.
Later, we depart for Sligachan on the Isle of Skye, where we’ll check in at our hotel before concluding the day with a delicious late dinner.
During our captivating stay on the Isle of Skye, photographers are treated to a diverse array of striking shooting locations.
As Day 2 begins, we’ll gather for the sunrise shoot at the Sligachan viaduct, where the sunrise bathes nature in a warm, golden glow, with the sun positioned perfectly behind us.
After breakfast, a drive takes us to Elgol Beach. This rocky beach offers stunning vistas of the majestic Black Cuillin mountains. It is a fantastic spot for long exposures, with the mountains forming a dramatic backdrop.
In the island’s heart lies the enigmatic Quiraing, an otherworldly landscape photography destination defined by its bizarre rock formations and rolling hills. As the day progresses, the Quiraing transforms, offering a mesmerizing canvas for afternoon and sunset photography. The rugged terrain and ever-changing skies present a multitude of opportunities to experiment with light and composition.
After an intense day of shooting, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner at the hotel.
We embark on a very early morning journey to the iconic volcanic rock formation – Old Man of Storr, where a 4-mile roundtrip hike to its base rewards us with the ethereal sunrise, making it a prime moment for landscape photographers. Those who wouldn’t feel like hiking will shoot cascading waterfalls near Sligachan. Post-hike, we indulge in breakfast and downtime, with options for post-processing sessions at the hotel.
Our photography adventure continues with a revisit of the Quiraing to witness another play of light on this enchanting wild region.
In the afternoon, we drive to the iconic Neist Point Lighthouse, renowned for its dramatic cliffs, making it a prime location for capturing the coastal beauty of the Isle of Skye at sunset.
After an intense day, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner at the hotel.
Our photography adventure continues with Day 4, also known as “The Fairy Day”. We visit the Fairy Glen in the morning, where rolling green hills and a whimsical rock castle create an enchanting setting—followed by a visit to a harbor in the town of Portree, which offers a vibrant contrast with its colorful houses reflected in the calm waters.
Concluding the day at the Fairy Pools, we embark on a short hike to these crystal-clear cascades framed by the dramatic backdrop of the island’s mountains.
Throughout our journey, we’ll keep an eye out for the iconic Highland cattle so you have a chance to photograph their unusual looks. These shaggy-coated Highlanders add a touch of wild elegance to our Scottish landscapes.
While exploring the Isle of Skye, every location invites you to tell a unique visual story with its distinctive charm and character. Seize these opportunities!
At the end of the day, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner at the hotel.
Day 5 unfolds with a promise of diverse photo opportunities. Our journey begins with a captivating visit to the Glenfinnan Viaduct, renowned for its scenic grandeur. A brief 20-minute walk leads us to the perfect viewpoint to capture this iconic railway viaduct. The day’s highlight awaits as we witness the “Hogwarts” Jacobite steam train passing over the viaduct, an enchanting moment that has left a lasting mark on cinematic history. Photographers can create magical shots of this iconic locomotive as it gracefully traverses the viaduct.
Our day continues with a sumptuous lunch in Fort William or Glencoe, offering a well-deserved break amidst the stunning Scottish landscapes. Upon reaching our next destination, we’ll check in at our hotel and prepare for an afternoon of photography.
Banks of Loch Achtriochtan, framed by the rugged mountains, invite us to capture the serene beauty of the Highland landscape. Nearby, Torren Lochan offers a picturesque sunset photography opportunity, providing a fantastic way to conclude our day.
Finally, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner at the hotel or nearby restaurant.
Day 6 invites photographers to immerse themselves in the enchanting landscapes of Glencoe, offering a day of captivating photography from dawn to dusk.
We kick off the morning by photographing the sunrise at Buachaille Etive Mor, where a stunning waterfall cascades against the backdrop of one of Scotland’s most iconic peaks. The interplay of morning light and the majestic scenery provides the perfect setting to capture nature’s grandeur.
After our sunrise adventure, we’ll continue to explore the wonders of Glencoe. Our following destinations include Black Rock Cottage and Lagangarbh Hut, where you can seize the morning’s soft light to create memorable images, and the Glencoe Viewpoint, which offers an elevated perspective of the breathtaking landscapes of the Glencoe Valley in the heart of the Highlands.
Following an active morning, we’ll gather for a post-processing session to refine our shots and unlock their full potential. A hearty lunch and well-deserved downtime allow us to recharge and prepare for the afternoon.
In the afternoon, we venture to Lochan Urr, a tranquil loch surrounded by rolling hills and dramatic peaks. Photographers can capture the serene waters and surrounding landscapes, vividly picturing the Highland tranquility. If we feel like it, we can visit Glen Etive nearby.
As the day winds down, we’ll head to Clachaig Falls for a sunset shoot, where the golden hues of the setting sun cascade over the waterfalls. It’s a fitting conclusion to a day filled with photo ops in one of Scotland’s most captivating and inspiring regions.
After an intense day of shooting, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner at the hotel or a restaurant nearby.
On our final day, aptly named “Enchanting Castles,” we commence with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, preparing to capture the charm and history of Scotland’s iconic fortresses.
Our first stop is Castle Stalker, where we’ll embark on a morning shoot. Nestled on a small island in Loch Laich, this picturesque castle is a photographer’s dream. The dramatic setting and tranquil waters create a captivating scene, allowing us to capture Scotland’s architectural marvels.
Next, we’ll head to the enchanting Fairy Bridge, where mythical stories intertwine with the natural beauty of the surroundings. Photographers can explore the ethereal atmosphere and weave their own visual tales.
Continuing our castle-themed day, we arrive at Kilchurn Castle, a hauntingly beautiful ruin at the edge of Loch Awe. Its striking profile against the Scottish landscape provides an ideal backdrop for our final photography session.
As our Scottish adventure draws to a close, we’ll make our way back through the Scottish countryside and Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park back to Edinburgh, savoring our last glimpses of the enchanting countryside. Along the way, we’ll enjoy a leisurely lunch, reflecting on the incredible journey we’ve experienced.
In the evening, we’ll check in at a hotel near the airport, where we’ll gather for a farewell dinner.
After breakfast at the hotel on October 12, we’ll bid farewell to Scotland, our hearts and memory cards filled with the treasures of an unforgettable adventure. We check out and transfer to the Edinburgh Airport for our flights home.
Please note the itinerary is subject to change. We will do our best so you have an enjoyable experience and can get the best pictures possible, even if it means changing the plan.
We will also run post-processing sessions in Adobe Lightroom Classic CC to provide another benefit from this photo tour. We will work on your images from the tour and unlock their full potential.
Jan and Karol will take you on a journey from unattractive and flat photos to vibrant, appealing, professional-looking pictures that will sell well.
Karol uses a different workflow than Jan, so you’ll see how both do it and take away what works for you.
In a short time, you’ll understand why editing your photos is important and how to do it efficiently.
For post-processing sessions, we’ll use the time for rest and do it in small groups of one to three participants.
Upon request, we can also discuss various topics such as digital asset management, backup workflow, or anything else that interests you.
You will fly to Edinburgh Airport (EDI). You should arrive in the afternoon to make it in time for our dinner at 6:30 pm. We will arrange your transportation to the hotel upon arrival and before departure.
We will use a combination of a comfortable 9-seater van and an estate personal vehicle, both allowing for ample space and your comfort during the tour. Both tour leaders will drive the cars.
We will stay at three 3-star accommodations – one hotel near the Edinburgh Airport on the first and last night, four nights on the Isle of Skye, and two nights in Glencoe.
We carefully choose the hotels so they feature cozy, spacious rooms and offer a fantastic experience so you feel comfortable and can get a good rest.
All hotels serve breakfast and have either a restaurant on-site or in walking proximity.
Hotels may or may not have lifts, so be sure you’re comfortable walking the stairs.
Hotels serve breakfasts, but there may be days when we won’t have it at a hotel, thanks to our shooting schedule. In that case, we will arrange a packed breakfast from the hotel we eat on the way; everybody will carry their package.
Lunches and dinners will conform to our shooting times. Lunches will be between 11:30 am and 2 pm, and dinners after the sunset shoots. That being said, we recommend you always keep snacks (e.g., granola bars, trail mix, etc.) in your camera bag.
We’ll always have complimentary bottles of water in the cars.
The difficulty and terrain of this photography tour in Scotland are characterized by a mix of accessible locations and some challenging landscapes.
While some shooting spots, like castles and some viewpoints, are easily accessible with minimal walking, others require low to moderate physical effort. Below, we describe specifics of location worth mentioning.
The early morning hike to the Old Man of Storr will be the most demanding activity on the tour. An alternative plan will be for those who won’t feel like participating. This 4-mile roundtrip hike demands an early start and hiking on a trail with a headtorch. It also involves an uphill climb with an elevation gain of 276 meters (905 ft). But the visual rewards at sunrise are well worth the effort.
Another noteworthy hike is to Fairy Pools, a 2-mile roundtrip hike with an elevation gain of 60 meters (197 ft).
The shoot at Elgol Beach requires walking on rocks to get closer to the shore. If you are uncomfortable with that, you don’t have to and can try a different composition.
We expect to reach 10,000 steps daily, more on the days with the hikes as mentioned above.
Trail hiking may be deemed a vigorous activity based on the participant’s physical condition. Trail hiking surfaces and those beyond the parking lot are generally uneven—thus, hiking boots are recommended. If you are not comfortable with your hiking/fitness level, it is recommended that you ‘train up’ for the hiking portions. Ultimately, one’s enjoyment of the hiking portions of the tour is up to the participant.
Our experienced guides will provide support and guidance throughout the tour, helping participants maximize their photographic opportunities while ensuring their safety. Each participant needs to be comfortable carrying their camera bag with a tripod.
While some locations may present challenges, they offer a chance to capture Scotland’s rugged beauty in its most authentic form, making this tour an enriching experience for photographers eager to explore both the accessible and more demanding aspects of the Scottish landscape.
You can also take our self-assessment quiz that indicates whether our photo tours are a good fit for you. Get your personalized report now.
Intermediate photography experience is recommended. We expect you to know the basics of exposure and composition and be comfortable handling your camera. Terms like aperture, shutter speed, ISO, depth of field, bracketing, or self-timer should be in your vocabulary.
If you’re unsure if this photo tour is suitable for you, get in touch with Jan.
You can also take our self-assessment quiz that indicates whether our photo tours are a good fit for you. Get your personalized report now.
Jan is an award-winning landscape and travel photographer based in the Czech Republic with extensive experience in tourism and travel photography. He regularly runs photography tours in Prague and the United States and more adventurous photo expeditions in places like Peru. His work has been published in Scotland Magazine, National Geographic Traveller UK, and NG Viajes in Spain. Jan’s instruction on multi-day tours focuses on training each participant to see hidden compositions. Jan’s goal is to ensure each participant comes to understand composition and exposure, yielding more desirable results.
Karol Kozlowski is an acclaimed Polish travel photographer specializing in architecture, landscapes, and documentary/street scenes. Fluent in English, Spanish, and Polish, he previously lived in countries like Spain, Scotland, and Brazil to immerse himself in local cultures. With a background in graphics and film, Kozlowski embarked on a full-time photography career over a decade ago to capture the spirit of destinations worldwide. His evocative imagery has graced publications like National Geographic, Lonely Planet, and the Wanderlust. You can leverage his extensive expertise as he shares insights into lighting, composition, and storytelling to elevate your skills and create unforgettable travel photos.
During the first half of October, temperatures in Glencoe and the Isle of Skye typically range from 7-14°C (45-57°F). It’s essential to be prepared for variable weather conditions. Scotland’s weather during this time of year can be unpredictable, with the potential for rain, wind, and chilly temperatures. But often, the conditions are suitable for landscape photography, and we’ll hope for that.
Layered clothing is recommended, allowing you to adapt to changing weather throughout the day. Waterproof and windproof outerwear is a must, ensuring comfort and protection as we explore both the coastal areas and rugged terrains.
Sturdy, waterproof footwear with good grip will be essential for navigating uneven terrain and potentially wet surfaces.
Additionally, packing some warm clothing, such as fleece jackets and gloves, is advisable for those early morning and late evening shoots, where temperatures may drop.
By packing wisely and being ready for changing conditions, you’ll be well-prepared to fully enjoy and capture the mesmerizing beauty of Scotland’s landscapes during this photography tour.
Sunrises are approximately at 7:42 a.m., and sunsets are around 6:44 p.m. on these dates. Morning blue hour is between 7:03 – 7:18 a.m.; in the evening, it’s between 7:08 – 7:23 p.m.
Scotland Photo Tour is operated by We Travel the World s.r.o., identification number (ID): 08351864, head office address: gen. Píky 300/12a, Řepčín, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic; registered at the Regional Court in Ostrava under file no. C 79254. You can review their Terms of Use.
Yes, non-photographers are also welcome. The tour price for non-photographers is the same as for photographers.
A photo tour usually refers to a trip where leaders bring participants to the usual shooting locations and let them be without much help. In a workshop, leaders work more closely with participants and actively help them to take stunning images. Even though this event is called a photo tour, in its nature, it’s more of a workshop. Your leaders will work with you and help you craft good images, but they will also shoot themselves.
We’ll check the weather and optimize the program for the best shooting conditions. Scottish weather changes quickly; we’ll do our best to reflect on it and maximize our shooting opportunities.
Take our self-assessment quiz to find out. After answering mostly Yes/No questions that cover areas such as photography, fitness, and comfort levels, you will receive a personalized report showing whether our tours are suitable for you.
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