RURAL RETREAT
Abergavenny, Wales. 18 - 20 July.
Pause. Take a deep breath. There’s nowhere to be but right here, right now.
Step away from the digital world and into a space of creativity and connection during a three-day immersive photography retreat in the breathtaking Brecon Beacons, Wales.
We’ll spend the weekend together in a charming countryside cottage, sharing delicious meals and creating without constraints in beautiful, natural surroundings.
Come and join us
Who is this for?
Analogue photography enthusiasts (whether beginners or proficient) who are looking to expand their creative horizons and collaborate with likeminded artists.
Why?
I have spent 8 years both behind and in front of the lens, and I truly believe experiencing being on both sides has made me an infinitely better photographer. This retreat is for those who are similarly open to both photographing and being photographed, even if that is currently outside of their comfort zone.
What to Expect:
2 nights accommodation in a cozy, historical cottage
Delicious, hearty, homemade meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
Round the clock shooting at your own pace - we’ll have dedicated shooting time and downtime but you’re welcome to make the most of the space and time as you wish
Exploring alternative photography methods - have your portrait taken using the Binstax (Mamiya RB67 instant film back) and create prints of your own images using sunlight and leaves (chlorotypes)
Discounted film processing - photo lab to be announced
Creative community & artistic exchange with like-minded creatives
The Little Mill
We’ll be staying in a former mill with buckets of historical charm, situated right by the river and a stones throw from the Brecon Beacons.
The grounds also include a lovely garden, wild river access, pétanque pitch, and fire pit/bbq - perfect for unwinding after a day of shooting.
House layout:
Room 1: 1 double bed (private)
Room 2: 1 king bed (semi-private)
Room 3: 4 single beds (shared + accessed through Room 2)
What our days together will look like:
Day 1
Afternoon arrival and welcome tea
Golden hour shoot
Communal dinner
Day 2
Communal breakfast
Morning shoot (optional: have your portrait taken on a medium format camera with instant film)
Lunch
Afternoon workshop: Creating Chlorotypes (printing your images onto leaves using the sun)
Golden hour/sunset shoot
Dinner & fireside discussion
Day 3
Sunrise shoot (optional)
Communal breakfast and checkout
Shoot at Clydach Gorge amongst the ruins and waterfalls
Leave at your leisure
Key Details
Dates
Friday 18th July (check in from 4pm) until Sunday 20th (finishing last shoot in Clydach Gorge around 4pm)
Meals & Accommodation
All meal and accommodation costs are included in the cost of the retreat
Retreat Costs (per person)
£750 for shared room with 4 single beds
£800 for semi private king bed
£850 for private double room (only 1 available)
Join us this July.
This is an intimate retreat with only 6 spots available. Reserve your spot today and join us for a weekend of creativity and exploration.
FAQs
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Yes, beginners are very welcome. As long as you know how to operate the camera you’re bringing, you’ll be able to follow along. We may cover some technical topics, such as cameras and film stocks, but we won’t have time for basic camera operation instruction.
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This an analogue-focused retreat but digital photographers are welcome to come along too. I would recommend you at least bring a disposable/point and shoot/polaroid or similar so you’re at least getting some of the analogue experience.
If you’re new to shooting film and want to bring your digital as back up you’re also more than welcome to. To this day I still personally use my digital camera to light meter and visualise what the shot will look like.
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A fully functional camera, some film and I would recommend bringing clothing that matches the rustic surrounds we’ll be in - think timeless vintage, neutrals and natural fabrics.
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Yes, if you’re comfortable doing so. As this is a relaxed retreat and not a traditional workshop rather than focusing on shooting models, we’ll focus on being open to collaborating with each other and spending time both in front of and behind the lens.
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Yes, of course! They are yours to use just as long as you’re not using them for commercial gain (e.g music videos, uploading to stock websites, individual promotion etc)
If you wish to use any of the images for commercial gain an additional fee can be discussed with the location providers.
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If you’re eager to attend but can’t afford the full cost upfront, please get in touch. I’m happy to discuss a payment plan with the total amount to be paid before the workshop date. I want to make this experience accessible for those who are passionate about joining us.
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Due to the nature of my work as a self-employed artist all bookings are non-refundable. Cancellations result in lost opportunities for others and essential income for me. I appreciate your understanding and commitment when reserving your spot.
