Dates: Sept 19 to Sept 25, 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 19th – Arrival & Welcome
Arrive at Spean Lodge any time after 3pm. If arranged in advance, we’ll be happy to collect you from Fort William or Inverness.
The evening begins with a relaxed welcome briefing in the main lounge, followed by a delicious dinner in the dining room, where we’ll outline the exciting week ahead.
After dinner, unwind in the lounge with Tony Bonning, who’ll entertain us with Scottish storytelling—a wonderful way to ease into the retreat and connect with the group.
Day 2
Saturday 20th – Waterfalls & Wildlife
We’ll start the day with a walk to enjoy and photograph the stunning Highland scenery in a tranquil setting at Glencoe Lochan.
After some free time for lunch, we’ll have an exclusive photo session with Highland Cows—an iconic symbol of the Highlands. You’ll have the unique opportunity to photograph them in their natural environment.
In the early evening Kieran will share a moving photo essay that documents his intimate family story during the Covid pandemic—an inspiring exploration of personal narrative through photography.
We’ll wrap up the day with a relaxed dinner and informal conversation.
Day 3
Sunday 21st – Ships, Steam Trains & Seaside Stories
The day begins with a visit to the Corpach Shipwreck, followed by the chance to photograph the famous Jacobite Steam Train (the “Harry Potter Train”) as it crosses the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct.
In the afternoon, we’ll head to a stunning beach location for a unique photography session featuring a horse and rider set against the sweeping coastal backdrop.
Later, we’ll gather for a group editing session where Paul and Kieran will provide guidance and feedback on your images.
After dinner, enjoy a relaxed image-sharing session and casual discussion to reflect on the day’s creative work.
Day 4
Monday 22nd – Isle of Skye Adventure
After a hearty breakfast, we’ll set off for a full-day excursion to the Isle of Skye. We’ll visit beautiful Elgol, a village on the shores of Loch Scavaig towards the end of the Strathaird peninsula and photograph Skye’s rugged and majestic landscapes.
Later, we’ll stop to photograph a piper in full regalia, set against the stunning backdrop of Eilean Donan Castle—an iconic Highland scene.
Back at the Lodge, we’ll enjoy a laid-back dinner and share stories from the day’s journey.
Day 5
Tuesday 23rd – Highland Culture & Creative Editing
In the morning, we’ll travel to Glencoe to photograph Highland Dancers set against this world-famous and atmospheric landscape—capturing tradition and movement in a powerful visual setting.
The afternoon is dedicated to editing: selecting your strongest images, refining them, and beginning to build your personal story. It’s a hands-on session with tailored support from Paul and Kieran.
After dinner, we’ll come together for a group review session where participants can share their work and receive constructive feedback.
Day 6
Wednesday 24th – Heritage & Whisky
We begin the day observing and photographing a traditional highland shepherd at work with his sheepdog, creating documentary-style portraits that reflect the deep connection between people, tradition and wildlife within the sculpted landscape.
In the afternoon, we’ll take a break from the cameras and immerse ourselves in Scotland’s whisky heritage with a guided tasting session—an enjoyable way to experience the culture, craftsmanship, and flavour behind this national icon.
In the evening, we’ll enjoy a celebratory dinner followed by a relaxed print presentation session—an informal gathering where everyone is welcome to showcase their work and reflect on their photographic journey.
Day 7
Thursday 25th – Farewell
We’ll close the retreat with a final group breakfast and some time for personal reflection. Transport back to Fort William or Inverness can be arranged.
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.