Join me for a fabulous journey which will take you to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the British Isles.
Many people use Ardnamurchan to refer to an area that is actually made up of five West Highland Peninsulas. There is Ardnamurchan itself, plus Ardgour, Moidart, Morvern and Sunart. If you are looking for a beautiful, remote and unspoilt place then these Peninsulas are the place for you.
Together, these peninsulas have a landscape made up of rugged mountains, stunning coastlines, beautiful lochs, ancient woodlands and heather moorland. All of this is bathed in stunning light and sits under skies that are so dark, you can clearly see the Milky Way.
The area has a wealth of flora and fauna and is one of the least spoiled regions of Britain. Anyone with an interest at all in wildlife will find enough to keep them busy for a week, a month or a lifetime. There are a wide variety of well-preserved habitats from mountain tops to rock pools on the shore. It is also home one of the best surviving remnants of the ancient temperate Atlantic oak forest which once clothed most of the west coast of Scotland.
The Peninsula have a very ancient history, stretching from the Mesolithic people of over 6,000 years ago, through iron age settlers, to the Irish Saints who were followed by the Vikings. Then came the Highland Clans, followed by the Clearances and ultimately the formation of crofting communities which make up the many thriving townships and hamlets that exist today. All of this leaves much for budding historians to explore.
This peninsula offers an amazing diversity of scenery and creative licence for the photographer.
We will also travel to the Isle of Mull and Glencoe during our stay. These outings will be for the day with your ferry costs included in the full price. However, if these excursions do not occur due to reasons beyond the control of Dean Allan Photography Ltd, we will not accept liability. Such reasons maybe weather conditions or technical issues with the ferry.
However, we do expect the days to proceed and will do everything we can to make sure they do.
Embarking on a photography trip to Ardnamurchan, the Isle of Mull, and Glencoe is an exhilarating experience for any photographer. The journey begins in Ardnamurchan, where dramatic coastal landscapes, rugged cliffs, and serene beaches offer endless opportunities to capture the raw beauty of nature. The stunning sunsets cast a warm glow over the scenery, perfect for golden hour shots.
Next, the Isle of Mull captivates with its diverse wildlife and picturesque villages. Photographing the iconic Tobermory harbour, with its colourful buildings reflecting on the water, is a highlight. The island’s sweeping landscapes make it a photographer’s paradise.
Finally, Glencoe, with its towering mountains, verdant valleys and waterfalls, are breathtaking. The dramatic light and atmospheric conditions often present striking images.
This trip is not just about photography; it’s an immersion in Scotland’s stunning natural beauty, leaving lasting memories and a treasure trove of images.
The workshop is designed to provide a balance of visiting a variety of locations which will include the following locations:
Ardnamurchan
- Moidart
Ardgour
Sunart
Morvern
- Isle of Mull
- Glencoe
These locations are subject to change by Dean Allan Photography Ltd in accordance with my Terms & Conditions.
My Terms & Conditions are freely available to read on this website.
Moderate
A moderate to good level of physical fitness is required to participate fully in this tour. While many photography locations are accessible with minimal walking, others may involve uneven terrain, rocky paths, steep inclines, or longer hikes. Participants should be comfortable walking for extended periods, sometimes over uneven ground or in variable weather conditions.
Good mobility is essential, especially for reaching more remote or elevated shooting spots that offer the most rewarding views. If you have any concerns about your physical ability or specific health conditions, please contact us in advance to discuss whether this tour is suitable for you.
Your safety and enjoyment are our priority, and being well-prepared physically will help ensure you get the most from the experience.
Coopers Knowe House.
Enjoying a stunning setting and blessed with oodles of space, Coopers Knowe House sleeps up to 10 in comfort and style and is within easy reach of Fort William, Mallaig and the Ardnamurchan Peninsula on the west coast of Scotland. The house has an official 5* VisitScotland rating and has now been enjoyed by parties of discerning holidaymakers since 2012. We hold a Short-Term Let Licence – No HI-40075-F – awarded by the Highland Council.
The house boasts four double bedrooms on the first floor and one double bedroom on the ground floor – each has its own full bath or shower room. Luxury linen and towels are included in rental; there is a BT Home Hub for Internet Access and a landline for local calls. Throughout the property, you will find high-quality fixtures and fittings.
All bedrooms, with the exception of the Twin Bedroom, are fitted with super king size ‘zip and link’ divan beds which can be configured as twins if required.
LIVING ROOM
The main lounge, which enjoys a stunning double height ceiling and panoramic views across the loch, Rois-Bhein and the surrounding woodlands, is fitted with a Saey wood-burning stove and a Bose Bluetooth speaker. There is comfortable seating for 10.
KITCHEN
The kitchen has been designed and equipped to please those who like to cook. There are two Neff ovens, a modern induction hob, a large American-style fridge freezer and a comprehensive range of utensils and gadgets.
DINING ROOM
The dining room, which is fitted with bi-fold doors opening out on to a patio and barbecue area, allows parties of up to 10 to dine in style.
GAMES ROOM
Separate Annexe:
For the young at heart, the games room boasts a pool table complete with table tennis top, a second TV, a PlayStation 3 and a dart board. Perfect for keeping everyone entertained – particularly on rainy days.
SNUG
Sometimes – even on my photography workshops – there’s TV that you just don’t want to miss! The snug also provides the opportunity to catch up on some reading or to watch a DVD.
UTILITY, BOOTROOM AND DRYING AREA
The utility is equipped with both a washing machine and a tumble drier and within an enclosed area in the integral garage there’s the perfect space to take care of damp coats and muddy boots.
We strive to offer a varied and satisfying menu throughout the tour, with options to suit a wide range of tastes and preferences including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options where possible. If you have any specific dietary requirements or allergies, please let us know at least 14 days before the start of your trip.
Advance notice allows us to make the necessary arrangements to accommodate your needs and ensure you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.
This advance notice allows us to plan and prepare meals that meet your needs. Without this information, it may be difficult for us to accommodate certain dietary restrictions during the tour.
While we do our best to cater for all requirements, late notice may limit our ability to meet certain dietary needs.
This information is provided as a helpful guide to ensure you get the most enjoyment from your trip.
All camera and lens brands ultimately serve the same purpose: capturing what’s in front of them using different types of sensors. What truly makes the difference is the person behind the camera. To get the most out of this trip, it’s crucial that you’re familiar with your own camera—its layout, menus, and capabilities. There are plenty of YouTube tutorials available to help you learn, and it’s essential that you understand your camera’s features and how to control them effectively.
Lens selection is a personal preference. Many landscape photographers opt for zoom lenses such as a 16–35mm, 24–70mm, and 70–200mm. Zooms are a practical choice because they reduce the need to carry multiple prime lenses—particularly useful when not travelling by car to the destination.
Filters are indispensable for many landscape photographers. As a Kase Filters Ambassador, I carry a Polariser, a 3 stop ND, a 6 stop ND and a 10 stop ND filter. All of my filters are circular and magnetic. I will bring some demonstration kits with me, which you are welcome to use. If you are interested in purchasing any Kase Filters, prior, during or after the trip, I will be able to provide a discount code to use on the Kase Website.
Camera bags come in a number of different shapes and sizes. It is important that your bag is comfortable on your back, holds the necessary amount of equipment for your trip and is of the correct size for those travelling by air. I personally use the Shimoda bags which I find to be the most comfortable when carrying my bag on long hikes.
A strong sturdy tripod is hugely beneficial when photographing in the Scottish Highlands. The weather conditions, particularly strong winds make the addition of tripod spikes essential. More often than not, we will be photographing on soft ground or sand in windy conditions. Although the emphasis tends to be on lightweight models you must make sure they reach “eye level” and are able to resist the strong winds. Carbon Fibre makes are more lightweight than aluminium and do the same job. I personally use the Kingjoy C86 tripod, which if you are interested in purchasing, I have a discount code for the Kingjoy range of tripods.
I would recommend that you bring a lap top (where possible) together with a external hard drive so that you can back up your images during the trip.
Wet weather is always a possibility and although the modern day cameras are better at coping with moisture, it is always advisable to take precautions during inclement weather. Either consider a specific rain cover for your camera equipment or at the very least bring a selection of shower caps to protect your camera during passing rain showers. These are easily purchased on Amazon.
Please also bring along lens cloths, a blower, spare batteries and spare SD cards.
Below is a suggested list of Recommended Clothing to consider bringing along:
1. Outerwear
Waterproof Jacket (with a hood): Breathable and fully waterproof (e.g., Gore-Tex or similar). Essential for rain and wind protection.
Waterproof Trousers: Lightweight and packable over-trousers to keep you dry during hikes or sudden downpours.
Insulated Jacket or Fleece Layer: For warmth—consider a down or synthetic insulated jacket that packs down easily.
2. Base Layers
Moisture-Wicking Base Layer (top and bottom): Merino wool or synthetic—keeps sweat away and retains warmth even when damp.
Thermal Leggings (for colder months): Can be layered under trousers for added warmth.
3. Mid Layers
Fleece or Softshell Jacket: Versatile for layering and warmth.
Lightweight Windproof Layer (optional): Useful on blustery summits if your main jacket is too heavy for mild wind.
4. Trousers
Quick-Drying Hiking Trousers: Avoid jeans; go for synthetic or softshell hiking pants that move well and dry fast.
5. Footwear
Waterproof Hiking Boots (with good ankle support): Essential for rugged terrain, boggy areas, and wet conditions.
Wool or Synthetic Hiking Socks: Bring multiple pairs; wool blends help prevent blisters and keep feet warm when wet.
Gaiters (optional): Useful for keeping mud, water, and debris out of your boots.
6. Accessories
Hat/Beanie: To retain heat in colder or windy conditions.
Gloves: Waterproof and warm gloves with decent dexterity for handling your camera.
Neck Gaiter or Buff: Versatile for warmth, wind protection, or even sun shielding.
Cap or Sunhat (summer): Protection from the sun on clearer days.
Sunglasses: Glare off water or snow can be intense, especially in spring/summer.
7. Other Tips
Layering is key: Weather changes quickly; being able to add/remove layers will keep you comfortable.
Pack spares: Always carry an extra pair of socks and base layers in case you get soaked.
- Head Torch
- Re-Usable Water Bottle
Complimentary transport around the Islands with ample room in the rear cab for all the photographic equipment.
This will also include ferry journeys to the Isle of Mull and the Corran Ferry. These journeys are subject to weather conditions and/or technical issues with the ferry.
Dean Allan Photography Ltd accepts no liability should these trips be unavailable and do not take place for reasons out of our control.
Maximum of 4 Participants
6 days / 7 nights.
At the Property on the 7th February 2026.
There will be no photography on the 7th February. This is a travelling day for everyone.
Travel Insurance, Cancellation Insurance & Alcoholic Drinks
Insurance
All participants are required to take out cancellation insurance AND travel insurance. There is a big difference between these two insurances and what they cover.
Travel insurance: this insurance intends to cover medical expenses, financial default of travel suppliers, and other losses incurred while travelling, either within one’s own country, or internationally. Temporary travel insurance can be arranged at any time before departure on your trip, to cover exactly the duration of that trip, or a “multi-trip” policy can cover an unlimited number of trips within a set time frame. Please check which amount your insurance covers when it comes to damage or theft of you camera equipment / laptop. In case it is not enough, we recommend taking out additional insurance to cover your valuables.
Cancellation insurance: this insurance covers the damage you suffer by circumstances beyond your control, resulting in you having to cancel the trip beforehand or having to break if off before it ended. The circumstances for cancelling a trip are never good. Having cancellation insurance at least avoids you having a financial loss on top of this.
Third parties – During our travels, we use the services from various suppliers. Dean Allan Photography Limited is not an owner of these companies nor do we operate them or are they our employees. This means that Dean Allan Photography Limited cannot be held responsible for any negligent or wilful act or failure to act of any supplier or of any third party. This includes guides and drivers employed by the suppliers. By utilising the travel services of the suppliers, you agree that you will look to such suppliers for any accident, injury, property damage, or personal loss to you or to those travelling with you, and that Dean Allan Photography Limited shall not be liable.
Dean Allan Photography Ltd Terms & Conditions
You will learn…
How to choose the right settings for each shot.
How to Shoot in Manual
How to meter and expose correctly
How to use your Histogram
How to focus properly
How to compose your shot
How to use fast and slow shutter speeds to be creative
How to use Filters
Dean Allan is an Award Winning Landscape Photographer based in the Northern Highlands of Scotland.
Dean is the current Scottish Seascape Photographer of the Year.
My workshops fill up quickly but sometimes spots open up due to cancellations.
If the workshop you are interested in is currently full and you would like to be added to the waiting list then please fill out this form
To confirm your booking, a non-refundable deposit of 25% of the total tour price is required. Once this deposit has been received, a binding contract will be in place between us.
Following confirmation, you will receive an invoice for the remaining balance along with the payment due date.
All prices listed on the website are in UK Sterling (GBP).
Payment can be made by direct bank transfer at no additional cost. Alternatively, credit card payments are processed via Stripe and will incur a 3% transaction fee, added by Dean Allan Photography Ltd to cover the processing charges incurred by the company.