PEAK DISTRICT HEATHER PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
Capture a seasonal highlight as the purple heather ravishes the otherwise brown moorlands of the Peak District
heather in the peak district photography workshop
VISIT & PHOTOGRAPH STUNNING HEATHER HIGHLIGHTS IN THE PEAK DISTRICT
16th august 2025
13:00 – 21:00
4 People Max
Complimentary Transport provided from meeting point
Easy Difficulty ( i )
Meet at Hathersage
Start: 13:00
£150
(£40 Deposit)
Peak District Purple Heather Photography Experience: Capturing the Beauty of the Blooming Moors
Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and breathtaking landscapes of the Peak District at one of its most captivating times of year. On this workshop, we’ll spend a day exploring the moors around Hathersage, capturing the beauty of this fleeting spectacle and honing our photography skills amidst a photographer’s paradise.
Why Photograph the Peak District’s Heather?
For a brief period each year, the Peak District’s moors transform into a sea of vibrant purple, creating a visual symphony that captivates the senses. This workshop offers a unique opportunity to witness and capture this fleeting beauty, creating images that showcase the Peak District’s unique character and charm.
Our Heather Photography Journey:
- Exploration: We’ll begin our day by visiting a selection of classic Peak District locations, chosen for their accessibility and stunning scenery. While the light at the start of the day might be a bit harsh for ideal photography, we’ll use this time to focus on composition, explore different perspectives, and refine our technical skills. Potential locations include Carhead Rocks, Stanage Edge, Burbage Rocks, Curbar Edge, and Higger Tor, each offering unique photographic opportunities.
- A note for those wanting to attend both days: I aim to not use the same locations on both days where I have the same clients to allow a certain amount of variety, although our sunset location may be the same.
- Honing Our Craft: As we explore these locations, I’ll provide guidance and instruction on various photography techniques, including focusing, using a tripod, filters, exposure blending, composition, and working with light. We’ll also discuss how to adapt to different lighting conditions and make the most of the available light.
- Sunset at Millstone Edge and Over Owler Tor: As the day progresses, we’ll make our way to Millstone Edge and Over Owler Tor, considered the pinnacle of heather locations in the Peak District. This area boasts a stunning display of purple heather, combined with dramatic gritstone formations and panoramic views. We’ll spend the golden hour and sunset here, putting our skills into practice and capturing the beauty of this remarkable landscape.
What to Expect:
- A Relaxed Pace: This workshop is designed with a relaxed pace, allowing ample time for photography, learning, and enjoying the scenery. Most locations are within 15-20 minutes of the car park, with minimal ascents required.
- Emphasis on Learning: While capturing stunning images is a key goal, this workshop also prioritises learning and skill development. I’ll provide personalised guidance and instruction throughout the day, catering to different experience levels and interests.
- Weather Adaptability: The Peak District weather can be unpredictable, but I’m well-equipped to handle various conditions. We’ll make the most of the available light and explore alternative locations if needed, ensuring a rewarding experience regardless of the weather.
Itinerary:
- 1:00 PM: Meet and greet at our designated location, where we’ll get to know each other and discuss the plan for the day.
- Afternoon: Explore a selection of Peak District locations, focusing on composition and technical skills.
- 4:30 PM: Break for food and an optional introduction to Lightroom post-processing techniques.
- Late Afternoon/Sunset: Head to Millstone Edge and Over Owler Tor for our sunset photography session.
- 9:00 PM: Conclude the workshop after capturing the sunset and returning to the car park.
Additional Information:
- Difficulty: Easy. This workshop involves moderate walking with minimal ascents, making it suitable for most fitness levels.
- Group Size: Maximum 4 participants for personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
- Included: Expert tuition, guidance on photography techniques, kit list, discount codes, and a pre-workshop questionnaire.
Ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Peak District’s heather bloom and capture stunning images of this captivating landscape?
What’s Included?
- Technical tuition
- Advice
- Transport from meeting point
- Introduction to post-processing
I can also provide (group share)
- 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
Good to have
- A selection of lenses
- Remote Shutter
- Filters
- Camera manual
Difficulty Description
Workshop Difficulty: Easy (with some considerations)
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.
Walking Distance:
- You can expect to walk between 3 and 6 miles throughout the day, with breaks between locations.
Terrain:
- Locations are generally within a 15-minute walk from the car park, with return trips between each.
- 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.
- Some sections may involve walking over steep ground, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
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.
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.