Isle of Skye

Like an excellent single malt, the Isle of Skye offers everything that is great about Scotland’s Highlands and islands.

Isle of Skye Photography Workshops & Tours

small group landscape & seascape workshops

The Jewel of the Outer Hebrides

Join me on my Isle of Skye photography workshops and you’ll soon see why Skye is one of Scotland’s leading tourist attractions.

The Isle of Skye is one of the most iconic locations in the world for photography, attracting people from all corners of the planet with its amazing diversity of landscapes and subjects to shoot.

A photography workshop in Skye in one you will never forget.

       Excellent rating  
 Based on 28 reviews 
    
  
 
 
      I recently did a 1-2-1 tuition day with Dean along the Moray coast and it was an absolutely brilliant experience. Dean is not only a talented photographer but also a fantastic teacher—patient, knowledgeable, and encouraging. I learnt so much in just one day, from camera techniques to composition, and came away feeling far more confident in my photography. The locations he chose were stunning, and his passion for both the area and photography really shines through. I can’t recommend Dean highly enough to anyone wanting to improve their skills while enjoying a great day out!
     
   Jennifer Findlay 
 17/08/2025
 
 
 
 
    What a photographic adventure!
Fantastic landscape photography opportunities on all four of the Small Isles, each of them having their own charm and character. Our base on Muck was exceptional, great food and accommodation with a brilliant landscape looking towards Rum on your doorstep. The whole workshop was very well organised by Dean. The logistics of visiting 4 separate islands, the transport of all your luggage, the communication and involvement of the whole workshop in the day’s activities was spot on. Honestly can’t fault this workshop, highly recommend.
     
   Christine and Martin Cooke 
 29/03/2026
 
 
 
 
    The benefit of a Dean Allan workshop is I can switch off from having to think about organising a week away including the what, how, when and where for all locations. Dean does it all. A great week to think only about photography, make new friends, eat well and relax. A week in Orkney provided great landscape, nature and environmental photography. There was no rigid timetable and the week flexed around individual requirements and weather conditions. Sea stacks, puffins and lighthouses could be the highlights, but in reality every location provided opportunities for great photographs. This is a customer focussed experience with no enforced agenda or script from Dean.
     
   Mike Farrance 
 02/06/2026
 
 
 
 
    I recently attended a workshop on the Moray Coast of Aberdeenshire plus the Cairngorms, with Dean and fellow participants.  I was extremely pleased with how it all went, Dean is a talented photographer and was always on hand to answer questions and help out with camera position and settings.  The workshop was all inclusive and his lovely wife, Sally, was an amazing cook and provided us with excellent meals throughout the week.  The accommodation was first class and a comfortable place to return to after a long day out.  We enjoyed very relaxed evenings chatting about the day and spent a bit of time processing some of our images. The schedule was very well organised with plenty of time to spend at each location without being rushed. We visited some lovely coastal villages with great character, the famous Bow Fiddle Rock, Rattray Lighthouse, Dunnottar Castle, plus a couple of days in the beautiful Cairngorm mountains.  We were treated to a surprise trip on the Cairngorm Mountain Railway on our last day. Dean's workshops are above and beyond what I would expect from such a trip, and I would highly recommend anyone with an interest in landscape photography in Scotland and beyond, to book with him.
     
   Claire Gilbert 
 30/10/2025
 
 
 
 
    +0
I have recently returned from an enjoyable week in Harris and Lewis with Dean. There was always a clear plan for our days but when there was bad weather Dean's knowledge of the Islands meant we could adapt and make the most of the conditions and carry on shooting. I feel we saw the best of both Islands for photography with Dean on hand for advice when needed. Our accommodation was in a stunning spot with Sally providing delicious food all week. I hope to be on another workshop soon.
     
   ros alcock 
 03/02/2026
 
 
 
 
    This photography tour fulfilled my dreams of the perfect workshop. Dean has a unique vision of photography that is exciting and inspiring. He was available to help each of us no matter what our skill level. He continuously monitored the weather to determine the best place to shoot that day, flexibly changing course as demanded. He is skilled at his craft and able to teach with patience and humor. His wife Sally is a warm and welcoming host, who provides delicious and nourishing meals. They are a great team and I can recommend them unreservedly to anyone considering attending one of Dean’s photography workshops.
     
   Jan Lemmon 
 02/10/2025
 
 
 
 
    A fantastic landscape photography workshop in Loch Assynt. Stunning locations combined with Dean's vast local knowledge meant that we were always in the right place at the right time. I came away inspired more confident and with some of my best images to date. Together with the first class accomodations and Sally's catering ....highly recommended.👍👍👍
     
   Lee Williams 
 01/01/2026
 
 
 
 
    +4
Dean, thank you for a fantastic immersive adventure on the Sma Isles from wild seascapes, the wildlife and of course the brilliant photo opportunities.  After a wild day it was great to return to Gallanach Lodge where the accomodation and food were outstanding. I particularly enjoyed sitting with a dram in the lounge looking across the wild seas to Rum. My favourite photo location was on Laig beach on Rum, outstanding.  Thank you. Logan.
     
   Logan Steele 
 31/03/2026
 
 
 
 
    I loved both the recent workshops  I did with Dean. But the workshop to the outer Hebrides was extra special because the group worked so well making it all the more enjoyable.
I loved that Dean never rushes me and has the utmost patience and excellent teaching skills. I really learnt a lot that I can apply to my approach to photography especially composition and long exposures.

The organisation accommodation and catering were all excellent. I really am missing Sally’ meals. Thankyou Sally too for allowing me extra cups of tea at odd times. The dogs were a bonus and made it a very homely experience.
I am already looking forward to joining you again.
     
   Pamela Rixon 
 20/04/2026
 
 
 
 
    Just returned from a great trip to the Shetland Islands with Dean (and Sally).  It was a great trip of a small group going to some stunning locations that aren’t often photographed and all over social media.  Dean was flexible with his schedule and adapted to the interests of each of the group.  Westerwick was probably th highlight along with Hernaness overlooking Muckle Flugga

The accommodation was very comfortable and Sally kept us very well fed and watered. I’m just a bit heavier coming back!
     
   Stephen Smith 
 18/05/2026

A stunning array of gorgeous scenery to photograph

Inspiring Landscapes

There is a pleasure to be found in taking a good photograph of any place, but our greatest satisfaction is in the sense of discovery enjoyed when we experience something for the first time – a new location, some rare weather phenomenon, or simply just a new way of looking at a scene we have loved for years.

It is forging a deeper connection with what is around us. To do that, we need to be out there just a little longer, to explore just a little farther, the next photograph is always the best one.

The Isle of Skye is an area of incredible beauty and limitless possibilities for the landscape photographer. There are a myriad of breathtaking views and no matter the weather, you’ll have beauty to enjoy.

The camera really loves the Isle of Skye. The largest of the Inner Hebrides, it’s an island which boasts some of the most breathtaking Highland landscapes imaginable. Across Skye you’ll find precarious peaks, jutting ridges, imposing pinnacles and sweeping glens which are nothing short of majestic.

An island of diversity

Mountain views

From our base at the Cuillin Hills Hotel we have easy accessible access to all of the islands iconic photography locations.

We will visit the Quiraing at the northern end of the Trotternish Peninsula. Raw nature at it’s very best and a must see for any landscape photographer. The Quiraing provides spectacular views in nearly every direction and to experience a sunrise here should be on everyone’s bucket list.

The Iconic Views

Fancy a walk up what is probably the most famous walk on the Island.. The ‘Old Man of Storr’ is a large pinnacle of rock that stands high and can be seen for miles around. It simply has to be done.

It will involve an early start and a walk in the dark, but the views at sunrise is a sight you will never forget. Simply stunning. The walk will take approximately 80 minutes (without a stop) and is about 3.8km.

Not only will you take photographs that will remind you of the morning, but the experience will leave an indelible mark on you. It’s one of those moments, you’ll never forget.

However, it’s not for everyone and you won’t feel pressurised into doing it.

Elgol

Or, you may fancy going to the most iconic location on Skye. Elgol. This is an absolute must and we will definitely be paying a visit to the scene of some of the most beautiful photographs Skye has produced.

The small scattered hamlet of Elgol lies on the shores of Loch Scavaig on the south coast of Isle of Skye.

Situated 14 miles south west of Broadford at the tip of the Strathaird peninsula, the village is reached by a dramatic road through the Red Cuillins and Strath Suardal with superb views. We will stop off en route to photograph various bonus locations.

The Fairy Pools

If you fancy seeing the Cuillins closer up, then a visit to the Fairy Pools is a must. Although this is a photographic trip it is also a life experience and no more is this highlighted than a visit to the beautiful Fairy Pools.

At foot of the Black Cuillins near Glenbrittle are the Fairy Pools, beautifully crystal clear blue pools on the River Brittle. These famous pools entice visitors from all over the world, as they make some great ‘Wild swimming’ for those brave enough to enter the cold water.

Bring your wellies for the best shots are taken when standing in the water.

Waterfalls

This first waterfall marks the start of the magical pools. We will take our time to work our way up the river and explore all the pools. Some of the pools make great photographs.

This first waterfall is the highest fall and deepest pool. For the brave only there are some great high jumps. On the other side of the river from the path it is possible to jump into deep blue pool (approximately 10 meters high). I’ll take a photo of you diving in. We will follow the main path up beside the river to find more pools.

The next pool up is properly the most famous, a beautifully clear blue pool.

There are many small pools as we work our way up the river.

Neist Point

As well as these iconic locations, we will also see Neist Point at sunset. A view across the Inner Hebrides with the sun slipping below the horizon is just one of those moments when life, just feels great. The lighthouse sits at the end of a strip of land which just lends itself to being photographed.

So much to do and so much to see….we haven’t even mentioned the Fairy Glen, or Talisker Bay. Both, wonderful opportunities to test your imaginative and creative skills. We may even drop in on the Talisker Whisky Distillery to draw some divine intervention.

Fun & Relaxing Workshop

My Isle of Skye photography workshops are very relaxed which I hope will leave you feeling fulfilled and rewarded.

This amazing island is an area of Scotland that has no equal anywhere else on this planet. Stunning locations are all waiting to be discovered. Combined with my in-depth experience of the area, it can only be a recipe for photographic indulgence. Late winer/early spring days add drama, beauty and tranquillity to this rugged and weathered landscape.

Consume responsibly: a road trip through Scotland’s intoxicating Isle of Skye.

Workshop Details & Reviews

Small Groups

I keep all my groups small: (3-5 max)

Accommodation

Accommodation is included at the Cuillin Hills Hotel in Portree.

Transport

Free transport around the islands in my 8-seater Ford Tourneo with ample room for all photographic equipment.

Skills you can 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.

Review by John Potter

Learned new techniques and approaches to photography, particularly the approach to composition and editing. Visited some great locations. A small group meant that there was lots of direct input if...

Review by John Johnstone

Enjoyed everything! Both the “popular” and the off the beaten track locations. Lovely hotel with fantastic food. The post processing over a pint after a long day! Mixing with people...