Capture the Extraordinary: Lofoten Islands Photography Workshop

Master the Art of Northern Lights, Landscape, and Portrait Photography in the Enchanting Lofoten Archipelago

Indulge in a once-in-a-lifetime experience with our exclusive workshop series set against the breathtaking backdrop of Arctic Norway! Immerse yourself in the enchanting allure of fearless Vikings, awe-inspiring landscapes, untamed mountains, majestic fjords, graceful reindeer, culinary delights, iconic red cabins, the mesmerising dance of the aurora, and invaluable photography guidance from Aurora and landscape photography expert Dave Williams and portrait photography professional Kersten Luts. This workshop promises to not only fulfil but exceed the items on your bucket list, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Welcome to an unparalleled photography adventure in the heart of Arctic Norway! Our exclusive workshop series is meticulously crafted to not only check off items on your bucket list but to exceed your wildest expectations.


HERE’S WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT


Comprehensive Photography Experience:
Immerse yourself in the world of photography with expert tuition and a series of masterclasses from two seasoned professionals, Dave William and Kersten Luts. Refine your skills in landscape, portrait, and Northern Lights photography.

Immersive Viking Atmosphere: Capture the essence of Viking legends with a valiant Viking presence throughout. Elevate your shots with unique, powerful Viking-themed portraits against the stunning Arctic backdrop.

Scenic Excursions: Explore and photograph hidden gems with guided tours to epic landscapes and majestic fjords, ensuring you capture the most breathtaking scenes Lofoten has to offer.

Culinary Delights: Delight your senses with world-renowned local cuisine, creating a full sensory experience that enhances the overall workshop ambiance.

Unique Wildlife Encounters: Add a touch of wildlife magic to your portfolio as you capture beautiful reindeer, artic sea eagles and moose in their natural habitats, creating memorable and captivating images.

Traditional Red Cabins Stay: Immerse yourself in the local culture with cozy stays in charming red cabins, fostering a sense of community among workshop participants.

Aurora Borealis Photography: Witness and photograph the mesmerizing Northern Lights with nightly excursions guided by Dave Williams, the world’s foremost expert on the Aurora Borealis and Northern Lights photography. Dave knows the best vantage points for capturing this celestial spectacle - he’ll get you to the right place at the right time.

Networking and Community Building: Forge lasting connections in a small group setting with like-minded photographers, creating a supportive network to share experiences and future collaborations.

Portfolio Enhancement: Expand your portfolio with a rich variety of images—ranging from powerful Viking portraits to serene landscapes and dynamic Northern Lights compositions.

Expert Critique and Feedback: Receive constructive criticism and tailored advice from our photo guides, accelerating your growth as a photographer.

Embark on this transformative journey where each feature contributes to an unparalleled photography workshop experience, ensuring you not only capture remarkable images but also create lasting memories. Secure your spot now for an adventure that transcends photography—join us in the Arctic for an experience of a lifetime!


MASTERCLASSES

Aurora Borealis Masterclass

AURORA BOREALIS

Get ready to capture breathtaking images of the Northern Lights like a pro! Join us in the Aurora Mechanics masterclass with the renowned aurora expert and best-selling author of The Complete Aurora Guide for Travellers and Photographers, Dave Williams.

Dave's local knowledge of the Lofoten Islands' multiple weather systems and space weather conditions guarantees a high chance of success.

In this masterclass, you'll learn all the tips and tricks to capture the aurora borealis in all its glory. From setting up your camera to post-processing techniques, as well as a detailed masterclass presentation on the mechanics of the aurora, giving you a deep understanding of what’s happening high above your head.

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to master the art of aurora photography and unlock your full potential as a northern lights photographer.

VIKING PORTRAITS

Attendees of the Viking Portrait masterclass with Kerten Luts can expect an immersive and enlightening classroom experience. Kerten is a seasoned professional in portrait photography and has a wealth of knowledge to share. In this masterclass, you'll learn the art of creating captivating portraits that capture the essence of the Viking spirit.

Kerten will guide you through every step of the process, from choosing the right equipment and lighting, both natural and artificial, to directing and posing your subjects. You'll also learn about the importance of storytelling and how to use visual elements to enhance your images.

In addition to the technical aspects of portrait photography, you'll also gain insights into the creative process and how to develop your own unique style.

By the end of the Viking Portrait masterclass, you'll be equipped with the skills and knowledge to create stunning portraits that tell a story and evoke emotion. Get ready to unlock your full potential as a portrait photographer with Kerten Luts!

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ICONIC LANDSCAPES

In the Landscape Photography Masterclass with Dave Williams, you'll have the opportunity to learn the art of capturing breathtaking landscapes through a classroom-based experience.

Dave will guide you through the technical aspects of landscape photography, from understanding the equipment and settings to framing your shots and creating a unique perspective. You'll learn how to create stunning images that tell a story of the Lofoten Islands and how to overcome the challenges posed by lighting, weather, and terrain.

In this immersive classroom experience, you'll have the opportunity to connect with other photography enthusiasts, share ideas and learn from each other. Dave's expert instruction will inspire your creativity and passion for landscape photography, and you'll come away from the class with the skills and knowledge to capture stunning landscape images.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced photographer, the Landscape Photography Masterclass with Dave Williams is the perfect opportunity to develop your skills and take your photography to the next level. Don't miss this chance to immerse yourself in the art of landscape photography and explore the beauty of the Lofoten Islands!


HERE’S WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY


It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience and I'd do it again in a heartbeat - David Bergman

I took some of the best pictures ever in my life here - Paul Kober

Everything is first class. Definitely, definitely take this opportunity and do it. You will love it! - Bob Pierce


SCHEDULE

  • Arrive at Svinøya Rorbuer and meet the whole team. We’ll take a guided walk around the island to see the historic fishing cabins, take our first look at the classroom with a Northern Lights Masterclass on Aurora Mechanics and photography and have an evening meal at Børsen Spiseri.

    If you’d like some assistance arranging a transfer from the local airports we can arrange this when booking. Just get in touch.

  • We begin in the classroom with a breakfast masterclass on how to work with a model and some pro tips on portrait photography, before heading out towards Austnesfjord to photograph our Viking in the landscape. 

    We’ll be out all afternoon and, if the forecast is good, we’ll chase the aurora. If the forecast isn’t working in our favour we can go back to basecamp and use the sauna, relax in the bar, or work together on our photos.

  • We’re out with the Viking again today, this time heading towards some beautiful lakesides and rugged tundra to an area rich with Viking history. We’ll continue to photograph our Viking and take a field-based class on working with off-camera lighting, to really add some drama to our photos.

    When we get back to basecamp we’ll have a masterclass in landscape and portrait editing with Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop. We’ll have more time to relax and unwind, unless Lady Aurora starts to dance.

  • Now we head west to explore more of Lofoten’s iconic scenery. Today is all about the landscapes and Arctic Norway will be our playground. We’ll get some great shots under our belts and into our portfolios.

    We’ll learn how to represent these locations in their best light and shoot them in unique ways. If the aurora forecast looks good we’ll hang around for the evening.

  • We’ll leave basecamp behind today on a quest to find the best beaches in Lofoten, the Caribbean of the North. We’ll find stunning rock formations, fabulous views and patterned sands. Our options include Uttakleiv and Gimsøysand.

    The seascapes we’ll visit are world renowned, including another iconic location - Nusfjord. We’ll decide whether to stay out or go back to basecamp based on the aurora forecast.

  • We’ll venture out after breakfast to a Sami camp, having exclusive access into a reindeer paddock guided by your instructors. We’ll learn about the Sami reindeer and photograph them, up-close and personal, feeding them to get on their good side.

    We’ll have a Sami lunch and stay a few hours before heading back to basecamp. If we haven’t visited the sauna yet, this evening is the ideal time.

  • Henningsvær is our destination today. We'll go to the oldest fishing village in Lofoten to explore and photograph this icon of Northern Norway.

    There will be a little more exploration in the surrounding area and we’ll go off-the-beaten-path to find some more unique photos.

    As this is our last evening together, our Viking will sit at the head of the table as we feast, Viking style, to wrap up this once in a lifetime experience in the majestic Lofoten Islands.

  • Today is departure day - you will make your way to the airport, unless you have chosen to extend your stay at Svinøya Rorbuer for a few extra days in Lofoten. You will take away some amazing memories and fantastic images of your stay here.


Svinøya Rorbuer Restaurant, Lofoten Islands, Norway

DINING AND ACCOMMODATION

The accommodation and facilities partner for this workshop is Svinøya Rorbuer

This historic fishing village is home to a series of beautiful red fishing huts, or rorbu, and the main building houses the oldest shop in Svolvær as well as the amazing Børsen Spiseri restaurant.

You will stay in a historic cabin on this island and we will hold our classroom sessions in the main building. We will also have access to use the Lofoten Sauna and dine on our first evening at Børsen Spiseri, one of the best restaurants in Northern Norway. On the last evening we will sit down together for a Viking Feast, with our Viking at the head of the table. All breakfast and lunch is included.

Organising a workshop in Norway that complies with all the legislation and insurance requirements is no easy feat but we’ve done it, assured by the Norwegian travel guarantee fund (RGF.no) to give you the best experience possible, all-round. All the necessary permits and licences are in place for this amazing workshop.


Dave Williams

Dave is a travel photographer, writer and educator with particular expertise in Arctic locations. Dave is an expert on the northern lights and his book, The Complete Aurora Guide for Travellers and Photographers, is a best seller.

Dave has experience of delivering to audiences on a large and small scale and is a proud member of the Photoshop World Instructor Dream Team, as well as having spoken on several stages at The Photography Show, including the Masterclass Theatre, and the Art Directors Invitational Masterclass.

As the author of The Eiffel Tower Effect, Dave is dedicated to finding unique perspective in familiar locations. His expertise have been utilised to deliver photography training with Adobe, KelbyOne, N-Photo, Lonely Planet, and Expert Photography among others.

As an aurora expert with an intimate knowledge of the Lofoten landscape and weather systems, we’re on course for an epic workshop with Dave at the helm. He has built relationships with all the suppliers we’ll be meeting along the way, ensuring the best possible experience and exclusive access to special locations.

Dave has been visiting the Lofoten Islands for many years and considers them his playground when it comes to creativity, having an intimate knowledge of the terrain and comprehensive knowledge of the weather systems coming both from his experiences and the meteorology module of his aviation qualifications. It’s important that we are in the right place, at the right time. Dave strives to always achieve this and has delivered training on exactly how to plan properly for a photo trip, which we’ll be acting on dynamically in the Lofoten Islands.

Kersten Luts

Kersten Luts

Kersten is a talented portrait and headshot photographer based in Rickmansworth, near London, England. He has built a reputation as a skilled and versatile photographer, with a particular emphasis on capturing the essence of his subjects in his portraits and headshots.

In addition to his work as a photographer, Kersten is also the host of the Camera Shake Podcast, where he shares his knowledge and experience in the field of photography with other enthusiasts and professionals. On the podcast, he interviews fellow photographers and explores various aspects of the craft, from technical details to creative inspiration. His passion for photography and commitment to sharing his expertise have made him a respected voice in the industry.

In addition to his expertise in photography, Kersten has written articles for respected photography websites such as ScottKelby.com and DIYPhotography.net. His articles provide insights into the technical and creative aspects of photography, as well as the business of running a photography business.

Kersten Luts is not only a talented photographer and writer, but he also has extensive experience as an educator in the field of photography. He has taught photography courses and workshops, sharing his knowledge and expertise with aspiring photographers. Kersten's teaching approach is based on the philosophy that learning should be an interactive and engaging experience, and he strives to create an environment that fosters creativity and growth.

Kersten is also known for his Instagram portrait project "Three Heads in a Row," which showcases his ability to create engaging and emotive images that capture the personalities of his subjects. The project features a series of portraits of three people, each with their own unique story, captured in a single shot. The project has gained significant attention in the industry, and his work has been widely shared and featured in various publications.


Lofoten Viking Workshop Dates 2023/2024

Click on the date to secure your spot

January 25th - Feb 1st 2024

Dave Williams and Kersten Luts
Vikings Model - Roel Van Mierlo

EACH WORKSHOP IS STRICTLY LIMITED TO 8 PARTICIPANTS


PRICING AND SPECIAL OFFERS

WHAT’S INCLUDED

7 NIGHTS SHARED ACCOMMODATION AT SVINØYA ROBUER
AIRPORT TRANSFER
4 MASTERCLASSES
EXPERT TUITION BY TWO PROFESSIONAL INSTRUCTORS
VIKING MODEL
PHOTO REVIEWS
ALL EXCURSIONS & TRAVEL DURING WORKSHOP
REINDEER PADDOCK TOUR
BREAKFAST & PACKED LUNCH
WELCOME DINNER
VIKING FEAST DINNER ON LAST NIGHT
SAUNA VISIT AT SVINØYA ROBUER
ADVENTURE, INSPIRATION AND FUN!

52,500 Norwegian Krone
Approximately equal to $4,750, €4,430, £3,850

5% EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT: USE CODE ‘DAVE50’ AT CHECKOUT


AMAZING ADOBE OFFER

Get a FREE one-year Adobe Creative Cloud membership to everyone
who signs up for the January 25th workshop!
WORTH $659.88


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • The price of the workshop is 52,500 NOK (Norwegian Krone)

    The reason it’s being charged in NOK is to protect you as the consumer. Providing services in Norway means we need to adhere to all the local regulations and fulfil all the criteria for the Norwegian Travel Guarantee Fund (RGF) so unlike many workshops we are totally transparent and operating in accordance with all licences and permits pertaining to us and our suppliers.

    52,500 NOK is approximately equal to 4,800 USD or 3,850 GBP or 4,430 EU

    When you’re ready to secure your spot with us for this unique photography workshop you’ll be taken to Svinøya Rorbuer’s website where all the transactions are handled. You can pay by credit or debit card, or you can use PayPal or pay via a bank transfer. 

    To secure your spot with a deposit or to pay via a bank transfer, contact post@svinoya.no

  • Shared Accommodation for seven nights

    Continental breakfast every day

    Packed Lunch every day

    One evening meal at Børsen Spiseri, one of the best restaurants in Northern Norway

    Pick-up from Svolvær airport on arrival days, and drop-off on departure day

    Travel during the workshop

    Two professional photographer guides

    Viking model

    Reindeer Paddock Tour

    Sauna visit at Svinøya Rorbuer

    Tuition on location

    Aurora Forecasting and Photography Masterclass

    Landscape Photography Masterclass

    Portrait Photography Masterclass

    Photo Reviews

    Adventure, Inspiration, and Fun!

  • International travel to the Lofoten Islands

    Evening Meals - this is to allow flexibility because we want to be able to chase the northern lights whenever possible in the evenings, and it’s common for photography workshops in Lofoten to not include any meals

    Travel Insurance, Medical Insurance, Trip Cancellation Insurance, Evacuation Insurance, Visas etc

    Beverages - there will be water, tea and coffee available in the classroom during our time in there

    Anything else not listed as being included

  • When you click on any of the buttons on this page to book your spot on the workshop, you’ll be taken to the website for Svinøya Rorbuer (svinoya.no)

    Svinøya Rorbuer are our official partner for this series of workshops. By allowing them to handle the booking, we are covered by the Norwegian Travel Guarantee Fund. On their website you can select the workshop date, provide your information securely and make payment via Credit Card of PayPal.

    You can place a deposit to secure your spot, which allows you to finalise payment at a later date. To do this simply e-mail post@svinoya.no

  • The Lofoten Islands are within the Arctic Circle and the landscape is rugged and wild. Be sure you have sufficient warm, waterproof clothing including sturdy, waterproof boots, base layers, hat and gloves. You may also want to bring hand warmers and crampons. Bring a headlamp and/or flashlight, too. Bring your laptop and any card readers to be able to participate in the editing Masterclasses.

    Bring your camera and a variety of lenses, such as:

    14-24mm f/2.8 or similar fast lens for wide angles and northern lights

    24-70mm and 70-200mm or similar for landscapes, portraits and reindeer

    A sturdy tripod

    Filters, including a poralizer

    A camera bag

  • Absolutely, we will have an opportunity to bond as a group by taking a polar plunge in Arctic seawater. Don’t worry, you don’t have to do it, and there’s a sauna right where we’ll jump to bring you back up to normal operating temperature!

  • The Aurora is dependent on three factors - darkness, clear skies, and solar activity. While there is never a 100% guarantee, your lead instructor is a northern lights expert and author of The Complete Aurora Guide for Travellers and Photographers, so he knows exactly how to increase the odds. Our transport will be on stand-by and the coffee pot will be ready for any changes in auroral activity should we need to go out on short notice. We will go out on any evening that offers good chances of aurora.

  • We will begin and end at Svinøya Rorbuer. Attendees should make their way here from any of the local airports (Svolvær, Leknes, Evenes - Harstad).

    We recommend exploring options that connect from Oslo to Bodø and from there into Svolvær, Lofoten Islands. The airline that serves this route is Widerøe. We will transfer you from Svolvær Airport to Svinøya Rorbuer at the beginning and end of the workshop. We can assist in arranging transfers for other airport if you would like us to.

    We will meet at Børsen Spiseri at 7pm on the first day to get to know each other and discuss the plan for the week over a world-class three course meal.

  • There will be no drone instruction during the workshop but if you have a drone and would like to bring it, there may be opportunities to fly. If you do want to bring your drone please be aware of the local drone regulations and ask your instructors if you are unsure about the local airspace.

  • Absolutely, just get in touch with us when you book and let us know about any requirements you have and we will do all we can to cater to them.

  • We will have a Viking cos-player with us during certain elements of the workshop as detailed in the schedule. The Viking will be in character with costume and make-up, including weapons, and can be directed by you to get the photos you want. We will be spending time with the Viking out of character and you can get to know them better.

    We will all get together for a Viking Feast on the last day of the workshop with a modern twist on an authentic Viking banquet prepared especially for us by Børsen Spiseri.

  • Included in your investment is a seven night stay at Svinøya Rorbuer. If you’d like to stay for any additional nights before or after the workshop, this is possible, however you may have to change cabin. This is because we have secured a shared cabin for the workshop which may not be available for dates either side of the adventure. If you choose to upgrade, to have your own private cabin during the workshop, you may extend your stay in the same cabin. Details can be found when booking via Svinøya Rorbuer - BaseCamp Lofoten.

  • Yes, absolutely. The standard accommodation for attendees is a private room in a shared cabin. If you wish to have your own cabin all to yourself you can select this upgrade when booking.

  • The itinerary includes iconic Lofoten locations. We’ll see dramatic cliffs, towering mountains, majestic fjords, snowy peaks, patterned beaches, turquoise water and dancing aurora, all from the comfort of our base in an historic fishing village, dating back to the early 1800’s.

    We’ll visit Reine, Å, Hamnøy, Sakrisøy, Nusfjord, Ramberg, Uttakleiv, Skagsanden, Austnesfjord, Henningsvær, Oldefjord, Alstad, Vesterålen. Although these locations may change if we need to adapt to weather conditions, there’s sure to be a huge range of photo options available.

  • This workshop is subject to the conditions set out by the Reisegarantifondet, the Travel Guarantee Fund. Details can be found at rgf.no.

    If you need to cancel your reservation you will receive a 100% refund if you cancel more than 60 days before the workshop is due to begin.

    We will stick to the schedule as much as possible but if the weather or any other local conditions require, we will shuffle the schedule to ensure everybody is safe and the photos we get are the best possible. We have a great deal of local knowledge and a back-pocket packed with fallback options if we need to use them.

    Full terms and conditions can be found here


READY TO SECURE YOUR SPOT?

GET IN TOUCH IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS AT ALL, OR HIT THE BUTTON ABOVE TO BOOK