Dates: Oct 10 to Oct 16, 2025
Location: Spean Bridge, Scottish Highlands
Hosts: Kieran Doherty & Paul Hackett
Overview
Join us for a week-long immersive retreat in the heart of the Highlands, designed to sharpen your visual storytelling skills through hands-on guidance, inspiring locations, and a supportive creative environment.*
Hosted by two award winning photojournalists, this retreat blends photography, editing, and narrative development with the beauty, culture, and heritage of the Scottish Highlands.
Day 1
Friday 10th – Arrival & Welcome
Arrive at Spean Lodge anytime after 3pm. We’re happy to collect you from Fort William or Inverness with prior arrangement.
The retreat begins with a relaxed welcome briefing in the lounge, followed by a hearty dinner in the dining room where we’ll introduce the week ahead.
After dinner, unwind by the fire with Scottish storytelling from Tony Bonning—a warm, local welcome to your Highland photography experience.
Day 2
Saturday 11th – Waterfalls & Wildlife
Our first full day begins with a hike to Steall Falls, where the autumn colours make the landscape especially vibrant. You’ll photograph the cascading water surrounded by golden trees and rocky terrain.
In the afternoon, we’ll meet and photograph Highland Cows in their natural setting—framed by seasonal hues and soft Highland light.
In the early evening, Kieran will share a deeply personal photo essay, exploring narrative and emotion in documentary photography.
We’ll round off the day with a relaxed dinner and informal discussion.
Day 3
Sunday 12th – Ships, Steam Trains & Seaside Stories
This is one of our most visually rich days, made even more atmospheric by the low autumn sun and morning mist.
We’ll begin with a visit to Corpach, where the shipwreck sits dramatically against the backdrop of Ben Nevis. Then we’ll photograph the Jacobite Steam Train as it crosses the viaduct, steam billowing in the crisp air.
Later, we head to a windswept Highland beach for a unique session with a horse and rider—a timeless scene made more powerful by the shifting autumn light.
In the afternoon, we’ll hold an editing session, helping you curate and process your images from the day.
After dinner, we’ll gather for some relaxed image sharing and conversation in the lounge.
Day 4
Monday 13th – Isle of Skye Adventure
We’ll journey west for a full-day trip to the Isle of Skye, soaking in its dramatic landscapes bathed in autumn colour.
You’ll photograph sweeping moorlands, jagged cliffs, and the Old Man of Storr, where we’ll take a walk to capture Skye’s raw beauty.
Later, we’ll photograph a piper against the unforgettable setting of Eilean Donan Castle—an iconic moment to document.
Back at the Lodge, we’ll enjoy a casual dinner and reflect on the day’s visual storytelling.
Day 5
Tuesday 14th – Highland Culture & Creative Editing
The morning brings a visit to Glencoe, where Highland dancers will perform in full dress amidst the moody mountains—a chance to blend portraiture with cultural tradition.
In the afternoon, we’ll dive deep into editing: refining your images, enhancing narrative, and crafting cohesive visual stories.
The evening features a group review session where you can share your work and receive feedback from Paul, Kieran, and fellow photographers.
Day 6
Wednesday 15th – Heritage & Whisky
We’ll visit a Highland estate in the morning to photograph deerstalkers in traditional attire, moving through the hills with purpose. The low autumn light adds drama to these striking portraits.
In the afternoon, we’ll explore Scotland’s whisky culture with a tasting and photography session—capturing the textures, tones, and rituals of this rich tradition.
After our final dinner, we’ll host a relaxed print presentation, where you can share your progress and celebrate the work of the week.
Day 7
Thursday 16th – Farewell
We’ll gather for a final breakfast and time to reflect before saying goodbye. Transfers to Fort William or Inverness will be arranged for those heading home.
*Excursions are subject to change depending on weather.
What to Bring
Photography Gear:
- Camera (any type you prefer)
- Wide-angle and telephoto lenses
- Sturdy tripod
- Spare batteries and charger
- Ample memory cards
- Lens cleaning kit
- Camera bag/backpack suitable for outdoor conditions
- Chamois leather
- Remote shutter release
- Laptop or tablet for editing
- Notebook and pen
Clothing:
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Warm layers (fleece, sweaters, thermal tops)
- Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots
- Gloves, hat, and scarf
- Comfortable indoor shoes or slippers for the lodge
Optional Items:
- Neutral density (ND) filters
- Polarizing filter
STAYING AT THE LODGE
Spean Lodge offers a range of accommodation options to suit your needs during our retreats. Choose from elegant double rooms, spacious family rooms, or self-contained apartments, all designed for comfort and relaxation. Nestled in the heart of the Highlands, Spean Lodge provides a luxurious and welcoming base to enhance your retreat experience.
Contact us today, and we’ll be happy to call you back to discuss the best accommodation option for you.
Come and join us!
Why not give our April 2025 Photography Retreat a try? It’s going to be a lot of fun, with plenty of opportunities to explore, learn, and capture amazing moments. Spaces are limited, so drop Paul an email, and he will happily give you a call to chat about it. We’d love to hear from you!
Prices start from only £2150, depending on your accommodation and preferences.
PRICINGCONTACT & BOOK NOW
