Landscape photography workshop Provence

The Vaucluse, a beautiful region in the heart of the Provence is confined by the Mont Ventoux in the north and the Luberon mountains and river Durance in the south. The landscape is a mixture of valleys, forested hills and mountains, vineyards and lavender fields and typifies “La Douce France”: a fantastic area, peace and quietness and good weather. This historical and cultural rich region is also known for some of the most beautiful villages in France: Roussillon, Gordes, Goult en Oppède-le-Vieux.

During this 7-day photo trip in the Provence we will visit some of these picturesque villages and concentrate on the narrow streets, colourful houses and details and capture the spirit of this region. Furthermore we will also look at those villages from a distance and photograph them in the warm, soft light of the setting sun.
If you think of the Provence, you instantly think of lavender and we will of course focus on this beautiful and sweet-smelling flower too. Therefore we will visit the area around Banon and Sault and make a daytrip to the Kingdom of lavender: the plateau of Valensol in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. Besides photographing the wider lavender landscapes we will also focus on the beautiful sunflower fields and other agricultural details.

We will be staying in the charming 3-star hotel ‘Mas de la Sénancol’ (for more information go to www.mas-de-la-senancole.com) close to the beautiful town of Gordes and have all necessaries at our disposal. A beamer and projection screen will be available to discuss and evaluate each other’s pictures or to give a small lecture or presentation. During the trip, all participants are allowed to bring their images to ask for feedback.

On the evening of our first day we will start with a theoretical presentation in the Hotel. Besides reviewing the basics of photography, I will go into detail discussing and illustrating exposure, composition, importance of light, preparation and the use of filters in landscape photography. Afterwards everyone should be able to put that theory into practice once we’re out in the field. Nevertheless people wouldn’t wall it “La Douce France” if there wouldn’t be some time to relax too. The itinerary has been arranged in a way that there will also be some time available to enjoy the sun, take a dive in the swimming pool or relax by the bar.

This trip is not just a photo holiday but an actual workshop with 7 days of professional training both in the field and beyond. This workshop includes all transport to and during the trip, accommodation in twin rooms, daily breakfast and all other costs. This workshop does not include other meals, alcoholic drinks, cancellation insurance or insurance for equipment.

Each participant should bring all his camera equipment (digital reflex camera) including a decent tripod and filters if possible. If you have a laptop it might be handy to bring it as well. Be sure to bring appropriate clothing and a decent set of walking shoes. Although the weather will most likely be quite good, a windproof jacket and a warm sweater will be indispensible on the cold mornings. Make sure to bring your packed lunch for the first day.

Walking distances and great efforts will be limited, making this workshop accessible to everyone. Do keep in mind that some of the narrow streets in the mountainous villages can be a bit steep. The itinerary of workshop has been arranged in a way that the more intensive days are followed by a day with a calmer program. Changes due to weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances are possible.

This photo trip is organized by ZuiDERHuiS Nv (www.zuiderhuis.be, lic A 5039), who takes care of all practical arrangements (hotels, transport, insurances) therefore you can count on the experience and knowledge of an established travel agency.

Read full itinerary (dutch only).