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I had the pleasure of staying and learning with Paul at Spean Lodge this autumn. His photography retreat in the heart of the Scottish highlands is stunning. He runs a luxurious but homely and relaxing highland lodge where you’re able to chill and learn from one of the best photographer tutors in the business. During my stay Paul took us to various locations nearby to put our photography skills to the test. Although I’ve lived in Scotland for 40 years some of the locations were new to me. Steall Falls, Glencoe, Glen Etive and Glenfinnan Viaduct, the famous Harry Potter train bridge were all visited within the space of a couple of days. Paul, being a former press photographer based in London means he has an eye for a picture second to none. I really wanted to have a nice relaxing break but to be able to learn new photography techniques and skills and also meet new people with similar interests at the same time.
I found Paul and his lodge to be just the right place to do this. The other guests were very interesting and we all gelled over fabulous breakfasts and dinners at the lodge. I especially enjoyed each evening’s debrief in the Green Room with its log burning fire over a gin and tonic. I realised that I wasn’t alone in wanting to further my photography learning and to be able to do it in a wonderful highland location made it all the better. I can thoroughly recommend Pauls photography retreat coupled with his upmarket but relaxing accommodation at Spean Lodge for your next adventure holiday.
Mike WilkinsonPhotographer.
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It is hard to say what makes Paul’s retreats so magical but maybe that is just part of his skill. This was just an incredible experience. Spean Lodge is so beautiful, warm and comfortable that I almost didn’t want to leave each morning as we set out on our photography adventures. But every day was exciting and different, guided by Paul’s quiet wisdom and kindness. He knows what will make not just good photographs but great experiences. I saw landscapes that I’d only ever imagined or seen in films or on shortbread tins, accompanied by tales from his amazing career, tips and ideas.
Each evening sitting by the fire with Annie the dog, making friends for life we shared our photographs, heard stories of Scottish myths and legends with incredible food made by the wonderful Jacqui and Joe which I will be trying to recreate forever - let no one tell you a Brussel sprout salad could not be the best thing you’ll ever eat.
I arrived thinking I might be able to enhance my portfolio in a lovely setting but I left inspired, wiser, healthier and lighter in my soul. I really couldn’t recommend this highly enough.
Mary TurnerPhotographer
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When I arrived at beautiful Spean Lodge, I had a Nikon camera that I had used, but only on the auto setting. I had no idea what a world of difference understanding the various features of the camera would make to my finished product. I was patiently guided through all of it by Kieran. For the composition of the photos, Paul, Abbie and Kieran were so helpful and never patronising! The resulting photos are my pride and joy!
My fellow photographers were more familiar with photography than me understood all the language associated with it. I learned a lot from them too.
We were so well looked after, from the marvellous food to the comfortable accommodation and from the minibus excursions to the relaxing evenings in the cozy lounge.
I would recommend the photography retreat to anyone - novice or otherwise. Every day is a school day after all!
Anne Ritchie
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I can heartily recommend the Photo retreat at Spean Lodge, thanks for an amazing week with really lovely people. I have learned so much and was really inspired by the locations we visited. Thanks to Paul for his enthusiasm and guidance, and for creating the best possible photographic experiences.
The abundance of photo opportunities and sheer variety of subjects was pure inspiration. I think it will take some time to go through my images, though the print supplied on the workshop is already framed and on the wall. Finally not to forget the food also which was excellent and the very comfortable, welcoming accommodation.
Nick Dalby
