Come and join us!
This exclusive series of workshops in Arctic Norway is sure to tick a lot off your bucket list! There will be a valiant Viking, epic landscapes, rugged mountains, majestic fjords, beautiful reindeer, world-renowned food, traditional red cabins, dancing aurora, and expert tuition from two professional photo guides
Lofoten Viking Workshop Dates 2023/2024
Click on the date to secure your spot
Each workshop is strictly limited to 8 participants
This is a unique opportunity
A once-in-a-lifetime Viking Photography Workshop deep within the Arctic Circle, in the Lofoten Islands which the Vikings once called home
At a glance
Group Size 👥
We will have a limited group size of 8 people
Fitness 💪
There will be no long hiking, just a few short walks on fairly level terrain
Technical Level 📸
We expect you to understand the basics of your camera - we’ll teach you everything else you need to know to make the most of this experience
Price 💵
52,500 Norwegian Krone
Approximately equal to $4,750, €4,430, £3,850
Tuition 👩🎓
There will be at least two professional photography trainers
Classroom 👨🏫
We have access to a classroom housed alongside our accommodation, where we will deliver masterclass presentations and attendees can work on their images
Schedule
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Arrive at Svinøya Rorbuer and meet the whole team. We’ll take a guided walk around the island to see the historic fishing cabins, take our first look at the classroom with a Northern Lights Masterclass on Aurora Mechanics and photography and have an evening meal at Børsen Spiseri.
If you’d like some assistance arranging a transfer from the local airports we can arrange this when booking. Just get in touch.
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We begin in the classroom with a breakfast masterclass on how to work with a model and some pro tips on portrait photography, before heading out towards Austnesfjord to photograph our Viking in the landscape.
We’ll be out all afternoon and, if the forecast is good, we’ll chase the aurora. If the forecast isn’t working in our favour we can go back to basecamp and use the sauna, relax in the bar, or work together on our photos.
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We’re out with the Viking again today, this time heading towards some beautiful lakesides and rugged tundra to an area rich with Viking history. We’ll continue to photograph our Viking and take a field-based class on working with off-camera lighting, to really add some drama to our photos.
When we get back to basecamp we’ll have a masterclass in landscape and portrait editing with Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop. We’ll have more time to relax and unwind, unless Lady Aurora starts to dance.
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Now we head west to explore more of Lofoten’s iconic scenery. Today is all about the landscapes and Arctic Norway will be our playground. We’ll get some great shots under our belts and into our portfolios.
We’ll learn how to represent these locations in their best light and shoot them in unique ways. If the aurora forecast looks good we’ll hang around for the evening.
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We’ll leave basecamp behind today on a quest to find the best beaches in Lofoten, the Caribbean of the North. We’ll find stunning rock formations, fabulous views and patterned sands. Our options include Uttakleiv and Gimsøysand.
The seascapes we’ll visit are world renowned, including another iconic location - Nusfjord. We’ll decide whether to stay out or go back to basecamp based on the aurora forecast.
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We’ll venture out after breakfast to a Sami camp, having exclusive access into a reindeer paddock guided by your instructors. We’ll learn about the Sami reindeer and photograph them, up-close and personal, feeding them to get on their good side.
We’ll have a Sami lunch and stay a few hours before heading back to basecamp. If we haven’t visited the sauna yet, this evening is the ideal time.
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Henningsvær is our destination today. We'll go to the oldest fishing village in Lofoten to explore and photograph this icon of Northern Norway.
There will be a little more exploration in the surrounding area and we’ll go off-the-beaten-path to find some more unique photos.
As this is our last evening together, our Viking will sit at the head of the table as we feast, Viking style, to wrap up this once in a lifetime experience in the majestic Lofoten Islands.
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Today is departure day - you will make your way to the airport, unless you have chosen to extend your stay at Svinøya Rorbuer for a few extra days in Lofoten. You will take away some amazing memories and fantastic images of your stay here.
Dining and Accommodation
The accommodation and facilities partner for this workshop is Svinøya Rorbuer
This historic fishing village is home to a series of beautiful red fishing huts, or rorbu, and the main building houses the oldest shop in Svolvær as well as the amazing Børsen Spiseri restaurant.
You will stay in a historic cabin on this island and we will hold our classroom sessions in the main building. We will also have access to use the Lofoten Sauna and dine on our first evening at Børsen Spiseri, one of the best restaurants in Northern Norway. On the last evening we will sit down together for a Viking Feast, with our Viking at the head of the table. All breakfast and lunch is included.
Organising a workshop in Norway that complies with all the legislation and insurance requirements is no easy feat but we’ve done it, assured by the Norwegian travel guarantee fund (RGF.no) to give you the best experience possible, all-round. All the necessary permits and licences are in place for this amazing workshop.
Factsheet
Download the Lofoten Islands Viking Photography Workshop Factsheet, a PDF including a series of stories about the Northern Lights, and join the mailing list
Let’s take a look at some of the Workshop Highlights
Aurora Borealis
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Get ready to capture breathtaking images of the Northern Lights like a pro! Join us in the Aurora Mechanics masterclass with the renowned aurora expert and best-selling author of The Complete Aurora Guide for Travellers and Photographers, Dave Williams.
Dave's local knowledge of the Lofoten Islands' multiple weather systems and space weather conditions guarantees a high chance of success.
In this masterclass, you'll learn all the tips and tricks to capture the aurora borealis in all its glory. From setting up your camera to post-processing techniques, as well as a detailed masterclass presentation on the mechanics of the aurora, giving you a deep understanding of what’s happening high above your head.
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to master the art of aurora photography and unlock your full potential as a northern lights photographer.
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You can expect an unforgettable experience of chasing and capturing the aurora borealis. With Dave's expert guidance, you'll explore the best locations to witness the stunning displays of the Northern Lights and learn how to capture them through your camera lens.
From understanding the technical aspects of photography to mastering post-processing techniques, Dave will help you elevate your skills to the next level.
No matter what challenges the terrestrial weather may present, we'll find the best locations to witness and photograph the stunning aurora displays.
Dave will guide you through every step of the way. You'll also get the opportunity to interact with other passionate photographers and exchange ideas to elevate your skills further. Along the way, you'll also get to connect with other photographers and create unforgettable memories. Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime with Dave Williams and the Northern Lights!
Viking Portraits
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Attendees of the Viking Portrait masterclass with Kerten Luts can expect an immersive and enlightening classroom experience. Kerten is a seasoned professional in portrait photography and has a wealth of knowledge to share. In this masterclass, you'll learn the art of creating captivating portraits that capture the essence of the Viking spirit.
Kerten will guide you through every step of the process, from choosing the right equipment and lighting, both natural and artificial, to directing and posing your subjects. You'll also learn about the importance of storytelling and how to use visual elements to enhance your images.
In addition to the technical aspects of portrait photography, you'll also gain insights into the creative process and how to develop your own unique style.
By the end of the Viking Portrait masterclass, you'll be equipped with the skills and knowledge to create stunning portraits that tell a story and evoke emotion. Get ready to unlock your full potential as a portrait photographer with Kerten Luts!
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Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Lofoten Islands, where you'll be able to capture stunning portraits of our professional Viking model against dramatic natural backdrops. On location with Kerten Luts, you'll explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Lofoten Islands and learn how to create portraits that tell a story of this unique location.
Kerten will guide you through the technical aspects of portrait photography, from selecting the right equipment and lighting to directing and posing your subjects. But it's the rugged and dramatic landscapes of the Lofoten Islands that will truly inspire your creativity. You'll learn to work with natural and artificial light, overcome the challenges of the terrain and weather, and capture images that are as striking as they are meaningful.
In this on-location experience, you'll have the opportunity to apply your newfound skills and creativity in real-world situations, all while surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Lofoten Islands. You'll work together, making this an unforgettable experience that will elevate your skills and inspire your passion for photography.
Whether you're an experienced photographer or just starting, the Viking Portrait Photography experience, exploring together for several days, with Kerten Luts is the perfect opportunity to explore the outdoors and unleash your creativity against the dramatic natural backdrops of the Lofoten Islands. Don't miss this chance to take your portrait photography to the next level!
Iconic Landscapes
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In the Landscape Photography Masterclass with Dave Williams, you'll have the opportunity to learn the art of capturing breathtaking landscapes through a classroom-based experience.
Dave will guide you through the technical aspects of landscape photography, from understanding the equipment and settings to framing your shots and creating a unique perspective. You'll learn how to create stunning images that tell a story of the Lofoten Islands and how to overcome the challenges posed by lighting, weather, and terrain.
In this immersive classroom experience, you'll have the opportunity to connect with other photography enthusiasts, share ideas and learn from each other. Dave's expert instruction will inspire your creativity and passion for landscape photography, and you'll come away from the class with the skills and knowledge to capture stunning landscape images.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced photographer, the Landscape Photography Masterclass with Dave Williams is the perfect opportunity to develop your skills and take your photography to the next level. Don't miss this chance to immerse yourself in the art of landscape photography and explore the beauty of the Lofoten Islands!
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On location with Dave Williams, you'll have the unique opportunity to apply your newfound skills in the great outdoors and capture stunning landscape images in the Lofoten Islands.
Dave will lead you to some of the most breathtaking locations in the archipelago, sharing his expertise and guiding you through every aspect of landscape photography. You'll learn how to find the perfect composition, make the most of natural light, and create images that are uniquely yours.
Through Dave's expert instruction, you'll also learn how to overcome the "Eiffel Tower effect," where the same popular locations are photographed in a similar way by many photographers. You'll discover how to add your own unique perspective to your images, making them stand out and truly capturing the essence of the Lofoten Islands.
In this immersive and hands-on experience, you'll have the opportunity to explore the rugged and dramatic landscapes of the Lofoten Islands, capturing the raw beauty of this remarkable location. You'll also have the opportunity to connect with other photography enthusiasts, share ideas, and learn from each other, making this an unforgettable experience that will inspire your passion for landscape photography.
Whether you're an experienced photographer or just starting, the Landscape Photography Masterclass with Dave Williams is the perfect opportunity to take your skills to the next level and capture stunning images of the Lofoten Islands. Don't miss this chance to immerse yourself in the art of landscape photography and explore one of the world's most beautiful locations!
Imagine having one of these Vikings with us to model in the landscape as we art direct the poses and compositions. We will have our professional Viking join us for several days of our adventure. They will be dressed and armed with everything a warrior in Arctic Norway would have had 1,000 years ago while waiting on Valhalla’s doorstep. Our expert instructors and professional model will ensure you get the very best photos in this incredible landscape. When you want them to dress ‘normally’ they’ll model for you without their Viking gear, too. We have options to do fashion-style shoots, use the fishing cabins to photograph the model as a fisherman, and much more!
We will also visit a Sami Reindeer Paddock to photograph these incredible animals. We will feed the reindeer to ensure they are comfortable with our presence, then move around the paddock to get some awesome photos of them with a break to warm up over a Sami lunch.
There’s more! We’ll visit an Icelandic Horse farm (yes, the Viking can ride), and you’ll get the opportunity to meet the horses and photograph the Viking riding in the landscape.
And as if that wasn’t enough, we will also take a boat ride on a RIB to Trollfjord to see the incredible site of the historic Battle of Trollfjord, and to visit the Sea Eagle Kingdom to witness these majestic birds in their natural environment.
Our Basecamp
Our base and lab
We will stay in the optimum location for access throughout the Lofoten Islands, perfect to travel in any direction, as dictated by weather and conditions.
Svolvær is a well-equipped city with supermarkets, cafe’s, restaurants, medical facilities and everything you need for the stay within walking distance from the basecamp.
Svinøya is an historic fishing village with a lot of character and stories that we will become familiar with during the stay.
Dave Williams
Dave is a travel photographer, writer and educator with particular expertise in Arctic locations. Dave is an expert on the northern lights and his book, The Complete Aurora Guide for Travellers and Photographers, is a best seller.
Dave has experience of delivering to audiences on a large and small scale and is a proud member of the Photoshop World Instructor Dream Team, as well as having spoken on several stages at The Photography Show, including the Masterclass Theatre, and the Art Directors Invitational Masterclass.
As the author of The Eiffel Tower Effect, Dave is dedicated to finding unique perspective in familiar locations. His expertise have been utilised to deliver photography training with Adobe, KelbyOne, N-Photo, Lonely Planet, and Expert Photography among others.
As an aurora expert with an intimate knowledge of the Lofoten landscape and weather systems, we’re on course for an epic workshop with Dave at the helm. He has built relationships with all the suppliers we’ll be meeting along the way, ensuring the best possible experience and exclusive access to special locations.
Dave has been visiting the Lofoten Islands for many years and considers them his playground when it comes to creativity, having an intimate knowledge of the terrain and comprehensive knowledge of the weather systems coming both from his experiences and the meteorology module of his aviation qualifications. It’s important that we are in the right place, at the right time. Dave strives to always achieve this and has delivered training on exactly how to plan properly for a photo trip, which we’ll be acting on dynamically in the Lofoten Islands.
Kersten Luts
Kersten is a talented portrait and headshot photographer based in Rickmansworth, a town located near London, England. He has built a reputation as a skilled and versatile photographer, with a particular emphasis on capturing the essence of his subjects in his portraits and headshots.
In addition to his work as a photographer, Kersten is also the host of the Camera Shake Podcast, where he shares his knowledge and experience in the field of photography with other enthusiasts and professionals. On the podcast, he interviews fellow photographers and explores various aspects of the craft, from technical details to creative inspiration. His passion for photography and commitment to sharing his expertise have made him a respected voice in the industry.
Kersten's love for photography runs in the family with two generations before him being involved in the craft. He has since honed his skills through years of practice and experimentation. His unique approach to portraiture and headshot photography is influenced by his background in music, where he learned to connect with people and convey emotion through his performances. This background has helped him create compelling images that capture the character and spirit of his subjects.
Kersten continues to push the boundaries of his craft, and his dedication to photography is evident in his work. Whether he's working with clients in his studio or sharing his insights on his podcast, he remains committed to creating meaningful and impactful images that resonate with his audience.
In addition to his expertise in photography, Kersten has written articles for respected photography websites such as ScottKelby.com and DIYPhotography.net. His articles provide insights into the technical and creative aspects of photography, as well as the business of running a photography business.
Kersten Luts is not only a talented photographer and writer, but he also has extensive experience as an educator in the field of photography. He has taught photography courses and workshops, sharing his knowledge and expertise with aspiring photographers. Kersten's teaching approach is based on the philosophy that learning should be an interactive and engaging experience, and he strives to create an environment that fosters creativity and growth.
Kersten is also known for his Instagram portrait project "Three Heads in a Row," which showcases his ability to create engaging and emotive images that capture the personalities of his subjects. The project features a series of portraits of three people, each with their own unique story, captured in a single shot. The project has gained significant attention in the industry, and his work has been widely shared and featured in various publications.
“ The only thing more impressive than Dave's stunning photos, is his passion for the craft. He doesn't just capture beautiful images, but memory-making photographs that we can't put down and simply want to see more.”
Skip Cohen, CMO Platypod LLC, former President Hasselblad, WPPI, Rangefinder Publishing, founder Marketing Essentials International
“ When I am in search of capturing the best digital hallucinations for my photography projects there is only one photographic expert in the universe that can get me to the right place, and at the decisive moment. Dave is the ultimate spirit guide to make your digital visions come true.”
Russell Preston Brown, Senior Principal Designer Adobe Inc.
“I’ve been very fortunate to visit a number of travel destinations with Dave over the past few years, and I can tell you, without a doubt, he is one of the most knowledgeable, insightful, and fun guides you’ll find anywhere. One of the things I love most about Dave is that he goes way beyond the places you’d find on your own, and his keen sense of what makes a great travel image gives him (and you) an advantage over everyone else. You’re going to come home with images that will make your friends and neighbors very jealous as they ask, “Where did you take this shot???!!!” Dave knows all the hidden locations and the best vantage points, and his easy-going style and personality make the whole experience a joy from beginning to end.”
Scott Kelby, CEO KelbyOne, Editor-in-Chief Photoshop User Magazine, Technical Chair Photoshop World Conference
“Dave's passion for photography is only rivaled by his passion for educating. If I had a spare hour it would be a hard choice between diving into Dave's Instagram and listening to one of his lectures.”
Udi Tirosh, Editor-in-Chief DIY Photography
All the answers
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The price of the workshop is 52,500 NOK (Norwegian Krone)
The reason it’s being charged in NOK is to protect you as the consumer. Providing services in Norway means we need to adhere to all the local regulations and fulfil all the criteria for the Norwegian Travel Guarantee Fund (RGF) so unlike many workshops we are totally transparent and operating in accordance with all licences and permits pertaining to us and our suppliers.
52,500 NOK is approximately equal to 4,800 USD or 3,850 GBP or 4,430 EU
When you’re ready to secure your spot with us for this unique photography workshop you’ll be taken to Svinøya Rorbuer’s website where all the transactions are handled. You can pay by credit or debit card, or you can use PayPal or pay via a bank transfer.
To secure your spot with a deposit or to pay via a bank transfer, contact post@svinoya.no
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Shared Accommodation for seven nights
Continental breakfast every day
Packed Lunch every day
One evening meal at Børsen Spiseri, one of the best restaurants in Northern Norway
Pick-up from Svolvær airport on arrival days, and drop-off on departure day
Travel during the workshop
Two professional photographer guides
Viking model
Reindeer Paddock Tour
Sauna visit at Svinøya Rorbuer
Tuition on location
Aurora Forecasting and Photography Masterclass
Landscape Photography Masterclass
Portrait Photography Masterclass
Photo Reviews
Adventure, Inspiration, and Fun!
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International travel to the Lofoten Islands
Evening Meals - this is to allow flexibility because we want to be able to chase the northern lights whenever possible in the evenings, and it’s common for photography workshops in Lofoten to not include any meals
Travel Insurance, Medical Insurance, Trip Cancellation Insurance, Evacuation Insurance, Visas etc
Beverages - there will be water, tea and coffee available in the classroom during our time in there
Anything else not listed as being included
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When you click on any of the buttons on this page to book your spot on the workshop, you’ll be taken to the website for Svinøya Rorbuer (svinoya.no)
Svinøya Rorbuer are our official partner for this series of workshops. By allowing them to handle the booking, we are covered by the Norwegian Travel Guarantee Fund. On their website you can select the workshop date, provide your information securely and make payment via Credit Card of PayPal.
You can place a deposit to secure your spot, which allows you to finalise payment at a later date. To do this simply e-mail post@svinoya.no
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The Lofoten Islands are within the Arctic Circle and the landscape is rugged and wild. Be sure you have sufficient warm, waterproof clothing including sturdy, waterproof boots, base layers, hat and gloves. You may also want to bring hand warmers and crampons. Bring a headlamp and/or flashlight, too. Bring your laptop and any card readers to be able to participate in the editing Masterclasses.
Bring your camera and a variety of lenses, such as:
14-24mm f/2.8 or similar fast lens for wide angles and northern lights
24-70mm and 70-200mm or similar for landscapes, portraits and reindeer
A sturdy tripod
Filters, including a poralizer
A camera bag
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Absolutely, we will have an opportunity to bond as a group by taking a polar plunge in Arctic seawater. Don’t worry, you don’t have to do it, and there’s a sauna right where we’ll jump to bring you back up to normal operating temperature!
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The Aurora is dependent on three factors - darkness, clear skies, and solar activity. While there is never a 100% guarantee, your lead instructor is a northern lights expert and author of The Complete Aurora Guide for Travellers and Photographers, so he knows exactly how to increase the odds. Our transport will be on stand-by and the coffee pot will be ready for any changes in auroral activity should we need to go out on short notice. We will go out on any evening that offers good chances of aurora.
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We will begin and end at Svinøya Rorbuer. Attendees should make their way here from any of the local airports (Svolvær, Leknes, Evenes - Harstad).
We recommend exploring options that connect from Oslo to Bodø and from there into Svolvær, Lofoten Islands. The airline that serves this route is Widerøe. We will transfer you from Svolvær Airport to Svinøya Rorbuer at the beginning and end of the workshop. We can assist in arranging transfers for other airport if you would like us to.
We will meet at Børsen Spiseri at 7pm on the first day to get to know each other and discuss the plan for the week over a world-class three course meal.
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There will be no drone instruction during the workshop but if you have a drone and would like to bring it, there may be opportunities to fly. If you do want to bring your drone please be aware of the local drone regulations and ask your instructors if you are unsure about the local airspace.
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Absolutely, just get in touch with us when you book and let us know about any requirements you have and we will do all we can to cater to them.
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We will have a Viking cos-player with us during certain elements of the workshop as detailed in the schedule. The Viking will be in character with costume and make-up, including weapons, and can be directed by you to get the photos you want. We will be spending time with the Viking out of character and you can get to know them better.
We will all get together for a Viking Feast on the last day of the workshop with a modern twist on an authentic Viking banquet prepared especially for us by Børsen Spiseri.
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Included in your investment is a seven night stay at Svinøya Rorbuer. If you’d like to stay for any additional nights before or after the workshop, this is possible, however you may have to change cabin. This is because we have secured a shared cabin for the workshop which may not be available for dates either side of the adventure. If you choose to upgrade, to have your own private cabin during the workshop, you may extend your stay in the same cabin. Details can be found when booking via Svinøya Rorbuer - BaseCamp Lofoten.
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Yes, absolutely. The standard accommodation for attendees is a private room in a shared cabin. If you wish to have your own cabin all to yourself you can select this upgrade when booking.
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The itinerary includes iconic Lofoten locations. We’ll see dramatic cliffs, towering mountains, majestic fjords, snowy peaks, patterned beaches, turquoise water and dancing aurora, all from the comfort of our base in an historic fishing village, dating back to the early 1800’s.
We’ll visit Reine, Å, Hamnøy, Sakrisøy, Nusfjord, Ramberg, Uttakleiv, Skagsanden, Austnesfjord, Henningsvær, Oldefjord, Alstad, Vesterålen. Although these locations may change if we need to adapt to weather conditions, there’s sure to be a huge range of photo options available.
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This workshop is subject to the conditions set out by the Reisegarantifondet, the Travel Guarantee Fund. Details can be found at rgf.no.
If you need to cancel your reservation you will receive a 100% refund if you cancel more than 60 days before the workshop is due to begin.
We will stick to the schedule as much as possible but if the weather or any other local conditions require, we will shuffle the schedule to ensure everybody is safe and the photos we get are the best possible. We have a great deal of local knowledge and a back-pocket packed with fallback options if we need to use them.
Full terms and conditions can be found here
What to expect during the workshop
Everything begins the night before...
We all meet up for a lovely meal at Børsen Spiseri (on us) the evening before we start exploring. Dinner is a wonderful chance to meet new people while enjoying a delectable meal and some wine. We’ll also show you around the historic fishing village of Svinøya to acquaint you with your immediate surroundings and learn a little of the history of this area and the red cabins. I will give specifics for our morning's activities after dinner during the Northern Lights Mechanics Masterclass. Even though it's always a goal, we'll do our best not to stay up too late after dinner. This dinner serves as the prelude to an extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Breakfast is followed by a masterclass in the lab.
We have our own space to hold retouching labs and masterclasses. After breakfast (on us every day) we’ll start by spending some time in the lab with a portrait essentials masterclass before we head out with our viking for an on-location photoshoot. Kersten and I will sit with you in the lab and always be on hand out in the field to help you with any difficulties you may run into. We’ll answer your specific post-processing and shooting questions. Every day if we have a lab session, we’ll conduct photo critiques for anyone who wants feedback. We’ll spend class time learning new travel, landscape, portrait and aurora photography and Photoshop and Lightroom post-processing skills. A packed lunch is included every day. You're welcome to choose a lunch spot when we’re out if you'd like, though.
We have a dawn and dusk shoots every day.
At a time when the light is gentle and the archipelago is the most peaceful, we head to the van and go to a great location. After the early-morning shoot, we either go on to another site for more photography (if time and place permit) or head back to the hotel for a sumptuous breakfast. The days are each determined by the activities and locations we have planned for you. For example, when we visit the reindeer paddock we head out straight from breakfast and you’ll get a delicious lunch there, with some other photo-spots on the way there and back.
We are back in the lab.
We pick up where we left off with new approaches or, perhaps, an afternoon session that frequently takes place indoors. On some days our lab will be ‘on the road’ and we’ll find a table in a café. On the days that we’re back at Svinøya there will be opportunities for a nap, a polar plunge and a sauna, or some group editing.
Leaving for our aurora hunt.
Each day we’ll assess the terrestrial and space weather and plan for a northern lights safari. If the weather means the aurora is unlikely we’ll wrap up the day after the sunset shoot, so you may go out to supper, go shopping, or just unwind with a drink of wine (or coffee if the space weather forecast looks particularly good!). This basically sums up our daily schedule, which consists of a combination of shooting, editing, laughter, sharing, learning, and, of course, a great adventure.
By the end of the session, you will have learned a great deal about photography and post-processing, made some new friends, and taken a ton of stunning photos. It takes work, but it also provides a of pleasure and an event that will live in your mind for the rest of your life.
What makes Lofoten so special?
Norways best travel destination
Lofoten has been named the best travel destination in Norway by the Norwegian travel industry, winning the Grand Travel Award 2023. it’s basically the Oscars of travel. The Lofoten Islands is regularly high up on the league tables for travel companies. Lonely Planet said “you’ll never forget your first approach to the Lofoten Islands”, and National Geographic have featured Lofoten on many magazine covers. The Lofoten Islands captivate with their breathtaking natural beauty, boasting majestic mountains, picturesque fishing villages, and pristine beaches that are bathed in ethereal Arctic light. These islands are not only visually stunning but also hold a special place in the hearts of travellers, offering a unique blend of rugged landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and remarkable opportunities for outdoor exploration and adventure.
Unique, world-renowned heritage
The heritage of the Lofoten Islands is deeply rooted in a rich tapestry of seafaring traditions, folklore, and resilient coastal communities. For centuries, the islanders have thrived off the bountiful waters, relying on fishing as their lifeblood and forging a profound connection with the sea. The iconic red fishing cabins, known as rorbuer, dotting the shores are a testament to this enduring heritage. These islands have witnessed the rise and fall of cod fisheries, with the Lofoten fishery once being a vital hub of the North Atlantic trade. Today, the Lofoten Islands preserve their cultural legacy through museums, exhibitions, and festivals that celebrate their maritime history, including the Viking heritage that shaped their origins. Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant traditions, witness traditional fishing techniques, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the local communities, all while being enveloped by the awe-inspiring beauty of this rugged archipelago.
Viking history
The Lofoten Islands hold a captivating Viking history that echoes through the ages. These islands served as a strategic gateway for Viking explorers and traders, offering a launchpad for their seafaring expeditions across the North Atlantic. The fearless Vikings navigated the treacherous Arctic waters, venturing into uncharted territories, and leaving their mark on the islands. The Lofoten Islands were not only a vital hub for trade, but also a hub for Viking chieftains and warriors. Archaeological discoveries, such as ancient burial mounds and remnants of Viking settlements, stand as tangible reminders of their presence. Today, visitors can delve into the Viking heritage through immersive experiences, including guided tours of historical sites and engaging exhibits that unveil the tales of these intrepid seafarers. The Viking history of the Lofoten Islands adds an intriguing layer to their allure, inviting exploration and discovery of the enduring legacy left by these legendary Norse adventurers.
Incredible landscapes
The landscapes of the Lofoten Islands are nothing short of extraordinary, painting a picture of unreal beauty. Majestic mountains rise dramatically from the sea, their peaks often capped with snow, creating a striking contrast against the deep blue waters in a place described as the Caribbean of the north. Steep cliffs, sculpted by time and weather, command attention with their sheer grandeur. Nestled between the rugged peaks, picturesque fishing villages emerge, with their vibrant red and yellow houses adding a splash of colour to the coastal panorama. Pristine beaches stretch along the shoreline, adorned with fine golden sand and polished pebbles, inviting peaceful contemplation or invigorating walks along the edge of the Arctic Ocean. The landscape is ever-changing, transforming under the magical Arctic light, otherworldly glow of the Northern Lights dances across the night sky. Each turn reveals a mesmerising vista, an invitation to explore and immerse oneself in the awe-inspiring natural wonders that the Lofoten Islands so generously offer.
The best location for the aurora
Lofoten's strategic location at the centre of the auroral oval grants it the privilege of being one of the world's premier destinations to witness the captivating dance of the Northern Lights. Situated in the high latitudes, this archipelago lies within the auroral belt, a region encircling the Earth's magnetic poles where the incredible lights of the aurora borealis frequently grace the night skies. The absence of light pollution, coupled with the pristine Arctic landscapes, enhances the viewing experience, allowing us to immerse ourselves in a celestial spectacle. As darkness falls, the vibrant hues of green, purple, and pink begin to flicker and ripple above, painting an enchanting canvas that seems to defy the laws of nature. Whether it's the calmness of a winter night or the mystical ambiance of the shoulder seasons, Lofoten's position within the auroral oval ensures a front-row seat to this celestial phenomenon, captivating the hearts and souls of all who witness its magical display.
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