If you are looking for a “get away from it all” experience, then the islands that make up Uist are the place you want to be. With miles and miles of empty beaches to the west, quiet roads and an eastern wilderness of hills and moorland, combined with a lively warm community, the feeling of space from the wide open skies and being welcomed by friendly islanders will relax, rejuvenate and feed your soul.
Nestled between Lewis and Harris to the north and Barra and Varersay to the south, Uist is easily accessed by ferries from the mainland and from the other islands. Uist is the collective name commonly used for the islands that make up Uist (or The Uists). These are Berneray, North Uist, Grimsay, Benbecula, South Uist & Eriskay and despite all being linked by causeway each has their own story and character. Also included in this trip & sitting at the southern end of the island chain of the Outer Hebrides, is Barra and Vatersay. These 2 islands offer an exciting mix of contrasting island experiences with something on offer for everyone.
The workshop is designed to provide a balance of visiting a variety of locations which will include seeing the vast empty white sandy beaches of Berneray in the north to the most southerly inhabited island of the Outer Hebrides of Vatersay with it’s breathtaking island beauty. Included in this tour is the ferry ride across to Barra & Vatersay. Perched on the western edge of Europe, these beautiful & remote islands offer a remarkably diverse landscape that belies their tiny size. Barra’s western coastline is renowned for it’s white-sand beaches, turquoise waters which have earned the island the tongue in cheek moniker “Barrabados”
The Outer Hebrides is a magical place and a place which offers the photographer so much creative opportunities. And once visited, these Western Isles will stay with you for the rest of your life. They are dominated by the force of the weather and resemble very little to be found on the mainland. As a part of the “British” experience they are quite unique, and are much further from London and the centres of political power than can be measured in miles.
I am only running with a small number of places on this particular occasion which will allow everyone space to photograph and provide me much more time with each participant.
We will visit Eriskay, home to about 150 people, many of whom still work their crofts and fish the seas around the coast. Eriskay is famous for the unique Eriskay pony, the original horsepower of the Hebrides, of which there are only about 400 in the world. The stunning scenery of Eriskay was where Bonnie Prince Charlie landed in 1745 to begin his ill-fated military campaign to restore the Stuart dynasty to the British throne. We will stand on the beach named after him – a lonely stretch of white shell-sand offers a beautiful photograph. For such a small island, measuring only 5km long and 2km wide, it’s taste for lost causes is further enhanced by inspiring Compton MacKenzie to write his novel “Whisky Galore”. With over a quarter of a million cases of whisky, the ship SS Politician in 1941 ran aground nearby, invoking the ancient rights of salvage, the islanders of Eriskay “liberated” around 24,000 bottles. The island of Eriskay was awash with whisky and the subject of a 1948 film – “Whisky Galore”
For pure sensory pleasure, we will visit Berneray’s amazing beaches – which offer seascapes so stunning they were once mistaken for exotic Thai resorts by the country’s own tourism bosses! Choose between the exciting Beasdaire on the east coast and the three mile stretch of machair bordered wonderful white sand that is the West Beach which was voted in 2021 as no. 3 in Lonely Planet’s Top 20 Best Beaches in Europe! A photographer’s paradise.
Complimentary travel around the island to such locations as:
- Berneray
- North Uist
- South Uist
- Eriskay
- Barra
- Vatersay
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.
7 nights at the Clachan Lodge on North Uist
A modern luxury 6 bedroom house overlooking the stunning coastline of North Uist.
Set against a rugged backdrop of moody Hebridean landscapes, this stunning contemporary holiday home offers a perfect location for those who want to feel the sand beneath their toes and the fresh countryside air.
With off-road parking, sleeping up to 12, Clachan Lodge is ideal for families and groups of friends.
Upon arrival, you will be able to unpack with ease from the handy off-road spot and admire the beautiful mixture of a contemporary wooden extension with fabulous windows and the white painted traditional cottage.
Pull yourself away from this beautiful property and captivating views and find yourself in an open-plan living area that is simply stunning, with wooden ceiling and flooring, huge windows drawing in natural light and giving this property an airy feel, and the addition of sculptures, artwork and photographs to add a homely feel to this magnificent house.
Lounge in the stunning sitting area before huge windows giving spectacular views, a variety of tasteful sofas and a woodburning stove warming your feet as you plan the day ahead of you.
Leading on from the sitting area is a stylish kitchen fitted with all of the home comforts you would need, so why not cook up a storm from local produce and present it on the dining table with a view?
There is also the addition of a handy utility to take care of all your sandy clothing as well as a games room for the children supplying books, toys and a TV.
Four of the six bedrooms are situated on the ground-floor, including a ground-floor king-size with zip link (can be set up as twin on request) with en-suite bathroom, a ground-floor king-size with zip-link with en-suite shower room, a ground-floor king-size with en-suite bathroom, and a ground-floor double with en-suite shower room, all with the addition of beautiful wooden furniture, paintings and ample storage to make you feel right at home, and there is an additional wet room on the ground-floor perfect for the children’s rooms which are situated upstairs and include a twin, and a bunk.
The sitting area outside of this property is magnificent, accessible through the huge sliding windows and offering a decking area to lounge on with a glass of your favourite beverage as you admire the sun set, and a lawn where the children and your four-legged family member can play.
North Uist has a variety of stunning sandy beaches to choose from, all of which are ideal for a family picnic with your four-legged companion, watersports such as kayaking, or a pleasant coastal walk with the salty breeze in your hair.
The nearby town of Lochmaddy will be ideal for a hot meal in one of the local pubs and restaurants, brought to you as you relax after an afternoon of hiking through the stunning scenery, as well as a visit to the magnificent harbour, which can provide a ferry to the mainland.
You may also take a day excursion to South Uist via Benbecula, where you’ll find a range of beautiful sandy beaches and incredible wildlife just waiting to be discovered.
In the spring and summer, you may also be able to see the machair flowers, which are the cottage’s namesake and a stunning sight for any visitor.
Lose yourself in the wonders of North Uist with a stay at the magnificent Clachan Lodge.
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 with ample room in the rear cab for all the photographic equipment.
Maximum of 4 Participants
6 days / 7 nights.
Depending on when people arrive, we will be available to start the photography on the day of arrival.
Clachan Lodge on North Uist on Saturday the 20th September 2025.
I am happy to collect any participant from their hotel or airport in Inverness for onward travel to the Uist Islands at no extra cost. However, they would be responsible for their ferry costs.
Ferry Crossings, Travel Insurance, Cancellation Insurance & Alcoholic Drinks
As this Photography Trip may involve a Ferry Crossing, Maritime Law requires all passengers have tickets for the specified journey.
Therefore, you must purchase a ticket from Calmac Ferries
You may do so as a foot passenger and still come across in my vehicle if we are travelling on the same ferry. I recommend you purchase the ticket in advance of the journey so that in the event of a ferry cancellation, you will be able to pursue a claim for any additional costs you may incur as a result (eg a hotel room).
Please read your maritime passenger rights here: GOV.UK
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.
Currently the Scottish Seascape Photographer of the Year 2024.
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.
