Wild Scotland Photo Workshop

Oct 10-18, 2026

Embark on a photographic journey through the rugged beauty and timeless mystery of Wild Scotland. This immersive workshop blends moody seascapes, dramatic landscapes, and ancient landmarks with hands-on instruction in composition, storytelling, and post-processing. From misty valleys to windswept coastlines, each day brings new inspiration and adventure. With expert guidance, comfortable accommodations, and a focus on elevating both creativity and technique, this experience is designed to ignite your artistic spirit in one of the world’s most hauntingly beautiful locations.

Tuition

  • $5200
  • Includes Lodging

Max Group Size

  • 2 Pro Instructors
  • Max 10 Students

Instructor(s)

  • A.J. Rich
  • 2nd TBD
Wild Wild Scotland Photo Workshop

Highlights

Peak Autumn Color – Capture Scotland’s landscapes with rich fall color.

Iconic & Hidden Gems – Photograph a diverse mix of legendary landmarks and lesser-known treasures in Glencoe and the Isle of Skye.

Expert Instruction – Hands-on guidance to improve your composition, creativity, and post-processing.

Golden Hour & Blue Hour – Maximize shooting time in the best light.

Comfortable Accommodations – Stay in well-placed hotels.

Small Group Atmosphere – Enjoy personalized attention and a fun, collaborative learning environment.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Edinburgh Arrival
We meet at 4PM at our hotel near the Edinburgh Airport to check-in and hold our workshop orientation session.

Day 2 – Into the Highlands
We leave the city behind and journey deep into the Scottish Highlands, photographing cascading waterfalls, peaceful lochs, and sweeping vistas. As golden hour approaches, we arrive at a striking stone castle perched on the edge of the water—an unforgettable first sunset. That evening, we check into our cozy island base for the next several nights.

Day 3 – Waterfalls, Ruins & Mountain Drama
The day begins with an early morning shoot at a historic bridge framed by waterfalls and rising peaks. We then explore a beautifully weathered ruin surrounded by autumn foliage, offering compelling storytelling compositions. In the afternoon, we venture into the mountains to photograph dramatic ridgelines and textured landscapes in late light.

Day 4 – Sunrise Hike & Coastal Grandeur
An early hike rewards us with sunrise views from one of Scotland’s most iconic rock formations. After some well-earned downtime and a post-processing session, we set out for a coastal location where sea cliffs, crashing waves, and soft evening light create perfect conditions for a powerful sunset shoot.

Day 5 – Inspiring Landscapes & Evening Adventure
We spend the morning photographing a whimsical, otherworldly landscape filled with winding hills and stone formations. A visit to a colorful harbor village offers more relaxed shooting and a touch of local charm. Later, we hike to a hidden beach or fairy-tale stream—perfect for capturing the fading light of day.

Day 6 – Scenic Return Journey
As we begin our return to the mainland, we photograph a legendary viaduct with a steam train crossing and a misty island scene straight out of a fantasy film. The journey continues through dramatic valleys and past serene lochs, with plenty of photo stops before we arrive in a quiet Highland village for the night.

Day 7 – Iconic Highland Peaks & Waterfalls
This day is dedicated to the iconic landscapes of the Highlands. We start at sunrise beneath towering peaks and flowing water, then photograph classic scenes like rustic mountain huts and layered glens. The afternoon offers time to explore a few lesser-known locations.

Day 8 – Farewell Shoot & Return to Edinburgh
We enjoy a peaceful sunrise shoot at a tranquil lakeside castle, followed by one last scenic stop on the journey back to Edinburgh. We check into our hotel near the airport and enjoy a farewell dinner to celebrate an unforgettable week in Wild Scotland.

Day 9 - Departure

Wild Wild Scotland Photo Workshop
Wild Wild Scotland Photo Workshop
Wild Wild Scotland Photo Workshop

Logistics

Please arrive no later than 4PM at the gateway hotel near the Edinburgh International Airport (EDI). The hotel is within walking distance of the main terminal but you can always hire a taxi if needed.

Luggage space is limited in the workshop vehicles.  Each participant is limited to one moderately sized suitcase and a camera bag.  If you have excess luggage, you can leave that at the gateway hotel.

Lodging in the scenic highlands is expensive and in short supply. During checkout, you will add an 8-night lodging package to your booking.  Please see the Pricing section below for more details.

This workshop is rated Difficult for physical intensity.  This is because there is some hiking required to reach several of the photo locations.  The most difficult hike is 3.3 miles round trip with 1200 ft of vertical gain.  All participants must be in good physical condition and capable of carrying their own photo gear on the trails. If you feel any hike is too much for you, you can always choose to stay back on that outing.

October weather in Scotland can be a mix of sun, wind, and rain.  Expect lots of wet weather and prepare to be out hiking and shooting in light rain.  Please see the gear list below to ensure you are prepared.  Daily temps will vary between 44-59 °F.

We highly recommend that each participant purchase their own travel and health insurance to cover anything unexpected. We have partnered with Squaremouth, a website that allows you to compare policies from multiple providers.  If you choose not to purchase travel insurance, you are liable for any unrefundable expenses and personal medical costs.

Wild Wild Scotland Photo Workshop
Wild Wild Scotland Photo Workshop
Wild Wild Scotland Photo Workshop

Pricing

$5200/Person + Tax

Trip Includes:

  • 7-Day Photo Workshop with 2 Pro Instructors
  • 8-Nights Double Occupancy Lodging at well-appointed hotels.  Single rooms are available for an additional $1300.
  • Hotel Breakfasts when permitted by the day's itinerary.
  • Round-Trip Ground Transportation To/From Edinburgh.
  • Permits and Entrance Fees
  • In-Field Photography Instruction
  • Post-processing and Image Critique
  • Pre-Workshop Zoom Meeting

 

Trip Does NOT Include:

  • Transportation to/from your home to Edinburgh
  • Meals, snacks, and beverages except for hotel breakfasts
  • Instructor Gratuities.

 

When you complete the checkout process, you will be given the option to either pay the full amount or put down a 50% deposit.  If you pay the deposit, you will be sent a payment link for the remaining balance approximately 120 days prior to the workshop. Since this workshop is an international collaboration, there are no discounts for Loyalty Members.  See the full Terms and Conditions.

Recommended Camera Gear

  • Digital SLR or mirrorless camera body.
  • Wide angle lens in the 16-35mm range or wider.
  • Mid-range zoom lens in the range of 24-100mm.
  • Telephoto zoom lens in the 70-200 or 100-400mm range.
  • Tripod and L-bracket for your camera.
  • Circular polarizers and ND filters will come in handy.
  • Backpack to carry your camera gear and a rain cover for the pack.
  • Rain cover for your camera.
  • Extra batteries, memory cards, and cleaning supplies.
  • Laptop if you wish to backup your photos or do any post-processing.

Personal Gear List

  • Waterproof and windproof outer shell jacket.
  • Waterproof pants
  • Hat and light gloves for cool weather.
  • Warm underlayers.
  • Waterproof hiking boots and long pants.
  • Headlamp
  • Sunscreen, Sunglasses, Sun Hat.
  • Refillable Water bottle.
  • Trekking Poles (optional)
Wild Wild Scotland Photo Workshop
AJ Rich Profile

A.J. Rich

Photography Instructor

Ever since he was young, A.J. Rich has had a passion for all things visual. Growing up on the edge of St. George, Utah, he often sketched his favorite sports players and designed logos for his youth sports teams. A.J. also spent countless hours around his childhood home climbing rock mesas and exploring the unknown, including at nearby Zion National Park.

Since graduating with a degree in graphic design and a minor in photography from Brigham Young University in 2001, A.J. has worked in graphic design for over 20 years and earned multiple national awards. In 2006, A.J. grew his photography portfolio as a contributor to Getty Images. In recent years, he continues to focus on his award-winning landscape photography—where his true passion lies.

Today the quest for the “timeless story” drives A.J. on all his outdoor adventures. While out in nature he seeks the ethereal and spiritual planes, and if he can capture them in a photograph, even better.

Currently A.J. works by day as a graphic designer and art director for BYU Brand & Creative, always dreaming of and planning for his next photography adventure.

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