GRITSTONE EDGES PEAK DISTRICT PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
Photograph grand vistas and cliff edges along the horseshoe of gritstone edges in the Peak District
gritstone edges peak district photography workshop
PHOTOGRAPH VISTAS AND GRAND LANDSCAPES HIGH UP ON THE GRITSTONE EDGES WITH EASY ACCESS
12th April 2026
12:30 – 21:30
4 People Max
complimentary Transport provided from meeting point
Easy* Difficulty ( i )
Meet at Grindleford Station
Start: 12:30
£150
(£40 Deposit)
Peak District Photography Workshop: Exploring the Dramatic Gritstone Edges – 12th April
Join me on April 12th for a captivating photography workshop exploring the iconic gritstone edges of the Peak District’s Dark Peak. We’ll discover breathtaking viewpoints, capture dramatic landscapes, and learn how to make the most of these unique geological formations, culminating in a late sunset shoot.
Gritstone Edges: A Photographer’s Paradise
The Dark Peak is renowned for its impressive gritstone edges, offering sweeping views and dramatic cliff lines. These natural wonders provide countless compositions, from classic vistas to hidden gems. We will focus on some of those below:
- Derwent Edge
- Bamford Edge
- Stanage Edge
- Burbage Rocks
- Froggatt Edge
- Curbar Edge
- Gardom’s Edge
- Birchen Edge
Diverse Photographic Opportunities
While the gritstone edges are the highlight, we’ll remain flexible and explore other captivating locations depending on the weather and light conditions. We may also start with a waterfall which allows a slower pace, let’s me get to know you and gets us out of potentially harsh light:
- Wyming Brook or Padley Gorge: We’ll capture the beauty of flowing water, practice long exposures, and enjoy the tranquility of these picturesque, woodland locations.
Learning and Skill Development
Throughout the day, I’ll provide hands-on instruction and guidance on essential photography techniques:
- Technical Foundations:
- Focusing Techniques: Learn how to achieve tack-sharp focus in varied scenarios.
- Tripod Usage: Master the art of using a tripod for stability, sharper images, and benefiting from a slowed-down workflow that aids composition.
- Filters vs. Exposure Blending: Understand the creative and technical trade-offs between using physical filters and digital exposure blending techniques.
- Creative Vision:
- Composition: Develop your eye and learn practical rules and tips for creating visually compelling and harmonious images.
- Working with Light: Learn how to effectively utilize natural light, especially the unique qualities of winter light, to enhance the mood and impact of your photographs.
- Advanced Techniques: I am always happy to discuss more advanced techniques on a 1-2-1 basis or with the group, depending on your interests and skill levels.
Itinerary & Practical Details
- 12:30 PM: Meet and greet, followed by a discussion of the day’s plan based on current conditions.
- Afternoon: Explore the gritstone edges and other captivating locations in the Dark Peak.
- 5:00 PM: Break for food (not included) and an optional review of images and discussion of basic processing techniques in Adobe Lightroom.
- 8:30 PM: Workshop concludes shortly after sunset.
What’s Included
- Expert Guidance: Benefit from my extensive experience and intimate knowledge of the Peak District.
- Small Group Size: With a maximum of 4 participants, you are guaranteed personalised attention and plenty of 1-2-1 tuition.
- Kit and Equipment Provided:
- I have four sets of Maven Filters available for the group to use (a set per person). This is ideal for testing or upgrading your filter system.
- I will also have spare tripods available for use.
- Pre-workshop Information: Upon booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with meeting details, a comprehensive kit list, discount codes, and a questionnaire to help me tailor the workshop to your needs.
- Post-workshop Support: You will receive access to my private Facebook client area for ongoing support, image sharing, and connecting with fellow photographers.
Weather Contingency
The Peak District weather is unpredictable, but we will be prepared!
Regardless of the weather, you will gain valuable skills and capture stunning images—even overcast days are perfect for waterfalls!
I have plenty of alternative locations that are suitable for a variety of conditions.
We may even engage in “light chasing,” using forecasts, webcams, and my local knowledge to find the best spots.
Booking Information
- A £40 deposit is required to secure your place.
- The full balance is due no later than 6 weeks before the workshop date.
Ready to capture the dramatic beauty of the Peak District’s iconic gritstone edges?
What’s Included?
- Technical tuition
- Advice
- Transport from meeting point
- Introduction to post-processing
I can also provide
- Tripod
- Set of Kase filters
What You Need
- Suitable outdoor clothing (No jeans or trainers)
- Camera with spare battery(s) and SD card
- Walking boots
- Tripod (Can also loan)
- Food & Drink
- Transport to meeting point
- Personal insurance if applicable
Good to have
- A selection of lenses
- Remote Shutter
- Filters
- Camera manual
Difficulty Description
This workshop is rated as “Easy”, and most people should be able to attend and complete it comfortably. However, it’s important to understand the terrain and walking distances involved.
Key Points: While individual locations are relatively easy to access, the cumulative distance covered throughout the day can be significant. Please assess your own fitness level and comfort with walking over varied terrain before booking. This workshop is designed to be enjoyable and accessible, but it’s important to be prepared for moderate walking and some uneven ground.
Walking Distance: You can expect to walk between 3 and 6 miles throughout the day, with breaks between locations.
Terrain:
Most locations are within a 15-minute walk from the car park, with return trips between each.
However, some locations, like Stanage Edge, may take a little longer and involve a steeper climb. I’ll adjust the itinerary to suit the group’s needs and abilities.
While some paths are paved, you’ll also encounter natural trails with stable surfaces. These may include rocks, tree roots, and mud, which are unavoidable features of the natural landscape.
Be prepared for some uneven terrain and potentially steep sections.
Off-Trail Exploration: We may venture off the main path at certain photography locations. I will point out any potential hazards, but please be mindful of your footing and surroundings. If you have any concerns, please don’t hesitate to ask.