snowdonia wild camping photography workshop

Snowdonia Wild Camping Photography Expedition: Capture Epic Sunrises and Sunsets from Mountain Summits – 4th to 6th July

Embark on an extraordinary photography adventure this summer, wild camping amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Snowdonia National Park. From the 4th to the 6th of July, we’ll immerse ourselves in the heart of the mountains, capturing stunning vistas at sunrise and sunset that most people only dream of witnessing.

Why Wild Camping in Snowdonia?

Wild camping offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature on a deeper level, experiencing the raw beauty and tranquility of the mountains in a way that few others do. By venturing beyond the usual trails and viewpoints, we’ll gain access to truly exceptional photographic opportunities, capturing the magic of golden hour light as it bathes the peaks and valleys in a warm glow.

Our Mountain Photography Weekend:

• Flexible Itinerary: Our exact route and campsites will be determined by the weather conditions, ensuring we make the most of our time in the mountains. If the weather permits, we’ll aim to spend one night camping on Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales, capturing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
• Mountain Expertise: I’ll use my extensive knowledge of Snowdonia’s terrain and weather patterns to guide us to the most photogenic locations, even if our original plans need to change. We’ll explore hidden valleys, ascend dramatic ridges, and discover breathtaking vistas that will inspire your photography.
• The Challenge and the Reward: While this workshop requires a good level of fitness and some hiking experience, the rewards are immeasurable. Imagine waking up to a breathtaking sunrise over a sea of clouds, or capturing the last rays of sunlight as they paint the mountain peaks in vibrant hues. These are the moments that make mountain photography so special, and this workshop will give you the opportunity to experience them firsthand.

What to Expect:

• A True Adventure: This is more than just a photography workshop; it’s an immersive experience that will challenge you both physically and creatively. Be prepared for a 4.5-mile hike with over 2000ft of ascent, carrying your camping gear and photography equipment. But don’t worry, the stunning scenery and company of fellow photographers will make the effort worthwhile.
• A New Camping Experience: While wild camping requires some extra preparation, it’s not as daunting as it might seem. We’ll ensure we have enough food, water, and appropriate gear for the weather. And the best part? You’ll be rewarded with unparalleled views and a sense of accomplishment that comes with spending a night under the stars.
• Expert Guidance: Throughout the workshop, I’ll be there to provide support, guidance, and encouragement. I’ll share my knowledge of mountain photography techniques, as well as tips on hiking safety, wild camping etiquette, and how to choose the best locations for capturing stunning images.

Our Itinerary – A Journey of Discovery:

• Friday: We’ll meet early in the day, discuss our plans, and assess the weather forecast to determine our first camping location. Ideally, we’ll start with a less challenging hike to get accustomed to wild camping and allow ample time for photography tuition.
• Saturday: After descending from our first camp, we’ll have some free time to relax, recharge, and you are also welcome to explore the local area. In the afternoon, we’ll set off for our second wild camping adventure, aiming for a higher elevation and more challenging terrain. Snowdon will be our ideal destination, but if conditions aren’t favorable, we’ll choose another stunning location with equally rewarding photographic opportunities.
• Sunday: We’ll wake up to a breathtaking sunrise and capture the final moments of our adventure before descending and enjoying a farewell debrief in a local café. We should be finished around midday, giving you plenty of time to travel home and reflect on your experience.

Learning and Skill Development:

Throughout the weekend, we’ll delve into a variety of photography techniques, including:

• Focusing: Mastering the art of achieving sharp focus in challenging mountain conditions.
• Tripod Usage: Utilizing tripods effectively to ensure stability and maximize image quality.
• Filters and Exposure Blending: Understanding when and how to use filters and exposure blending techniques to create stunning effects.
• Composition: Developing your compositional eye to capture compelling and balanced images.
• Working with Light: Learning how to harness the unique qualities of natural light in the mountains.

But this workshop goes beyond just camera techniques. We’ll also cover:

• Mountain Safety: Essential tips for staying safe and comfortable while hiking and camping in the mountains.
• Wild Camping Etiquette: Respecting the environment and minimizing our impact on the natural landscape.
• Choosing the Best Locations: Identifying and accessing prime photography spots based on weather, light, and composition.

Additional Information – Preparing for Adventure:

• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging. This workshop requires a good level of fitness and some experience with hill or mountain walking.
• Group Size: Maximum 4 participants for personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Included: Expert tuition, camping guidance, kit list, discount codes, and a pre-workshop questionnaire.
• Loan Kit Available: If you don’t have your own wild camping gear, I can provide a tent, sleeping mat, and sleeping bag for a £200 deposit, refundable at the end of the workshop.
• Weather Contingency: If the weather takes a turn for the worse, we may need to adjust our plans and stay in a hostel or B&B for safety and comfort. This additional cost is not included in the workshop fee.
• Transport: Due to the amount of equipment required for wild camping, transport is not included in the workshop fee. However, I’m happy to drive as many participants as possible, and carpooling is encouraged. I can also offer transport from Wrexham for one or two people.

Ready for an unforgettable wild camping and photography adventure in Snowdonia?