We will be based in a converted barley mill, with easy access to the wonderful coastline of Moray & Aberdeenshire which includes such locations as Findhorn, Crovie, Portsoy, Rattray Head and so much more. Discover over 165 continuous miles of dramatic clifftops, enchanting coves, paradise beaches & charming towns. From Findhorn in the west to Dunnotar Castle in the south this region has remarkable coastal treasures. There is a raw but natural beauty to this part of the world that gets through to you in a very different way. You’ll be opening your eyes to a most extraordinary corner of the British Isles.
The whole area is a magnet for drama and films alike giving the landscape photographer the perfect opportunity to draw inspiration from such awe inspiring locations.
The workshop is designed to provide a balance of visiting a variety of locations which will include seeing the wonderful cliffs and sea stacks at Bow Fiddle in Portknockie. It is a well known and popular location for photographers. But for good reason, it has so much to offer and will really provide so many opportunities to be creative in so many ways. It is a location that will continue to draw you back and is at its best at high tide.
In addition, we will spend 2 days exploring the UK’s largest National Park, the Cairngorms. This will include some of the lochs around Aviemore, Corgarff Castle, the royal village of Braemar and a number of other photographic locations throughout the Cairngorms.
Complimentary travel in my Ford Tourneo Custom around to such locations as:
- Pennan
- Findhorn
- Burghead
- Rattray Head
- Dunnotar Castle
- Portsoy
- Corgarff Castle
- Braemar
- Loch Va
- A whole host of wonderful locations within the Cairngorms
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.
This barley mill conversion sits pretty in an incredible location in the wilds of the Moray area of Scotland. A mile’s walk will bring you to the lovely village of Archiestown, with its inspiring square and endless array of whisky distillery’s to explore. If you fancy a more sober adventure, journey to the Speyside Way, a trail leading you over the Highlands along the River Spey to the dramatic Moray Coast. The trail begins a mile away — just follow the river.
The property itself is an unusual and historic mill, converted with contemporary taste while retaining masses of original features. Step into the heart and hearth of the home, the elegant lounge with two seating areas is perfect for a family occasion, with an open fire for extra cosiness and even the original millstone. Head through into the open dining and kitchen space, another sociable area ideal for big family meals. The bedrooms sit around the two upper floors, getting plenty of light and wonderful views, and — best of all — they’re all en-suite so there’ll be no fighting for the shower in the morning. The master suite is a gorgeous king room, with dual aspect windows looking out over the landscape, and the attic room is a fun hideaway, perfect for kids.
Outside, the grounds of the mill are romantic and rambling. The garden is fenced, bulbs sprout in spring and a small stream, that used to power the mill runs through – it’s like stepping back in time.
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
Free transport around the Islands in my 8 seater Ford Tourneo Custom with ample room in the rear cab for all the photographic equipment.
Maximum of 4 Participants
5 days / 6 nights.
Depending on when people arrive, we will be available to start the photography on the day of arrival.
The Property on the afternoon of the 5th October 2025.
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.
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.
