The course will take place in and around the picturesque Lake District. The weather in The Lakes can however be quite unpredictable so we recommend that you bring weatherproof and warm clothing just in case! Also sturdy comfortable shoes are a must. The longest walk on this photographic tour is a 3 mile round walk. There will also be 2 other walks of approximately 1.5 miles but all in all, we will be covering no more than 5 miles in one day and the walking is on relaitively flat ground but a reasonable level of fitness is required. It may be handy if you were to bring a light snack in your backpack to keep you going, until the evening meal.

HOW MANY GUESTS ARE ON EACH COURSE AND HOW MANY TUTORS?

We take a maximum of 9 on the Lake District Trip, with 2 tutors if the group numbers are greater than 5. If we have less than 5 in a group, there is a need then for only one tutor.

MY PARTNER WANTS TO COME ALONG BUT IS NOT A PHOTOGRAPHER AND WISHES TO PURSUE HIS/HER HOBBY DURING THE DAY. ARE THEY WELCOME?

They are most certainly welcome but we unfortunately cannot take them on the course unless they are a paying guest. They can join the rest of the group for lunch if they wish. Being based in the beautiful Lake District National Park, there are plenty of stunning sites to see and activities to keep them amused during the day.

WHAT EQUIPMENT DO I NEED?

On this course you should bring your own digital SLR and at least a wide angle lens as well as your camera manual, spare battery (fully charged) sturdy comfortable shoes, warm clothing, weatherproofs and your own images for dicussion (not essential).
We loan out our Manfrotto tripods on all courses but if you require a tripod could you please book this in advance, so it can be at the location when you arrive.


WHAT EXACTLY IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?

The Lakes trip is on a full board basis for 2 nights at Kings Arms Hotel.
All tuition from our various tutors (2 tutors on hand with groups greater than 5 and above), mini bus transport, lunch and course notes. Exclusions are any alcoholic drinks.


WHAT TIME DO WE ARRIVE ON THE FIRST DAY?

We aim to start the course at 6 pm Sunday with a introduction and talk by Simon Watkinson followed by evening dinner.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO COME?

Everyone has their own favourite season, and it really depends on what you like and what suits you.
Spring - this is such a refreshing time, so far this year, we have had beautiful blue skies, clean sharp air and snowdrops and daffodils dotting the countryside.

Summer - generally warm and green and great to be outside from morning to dusk!

Autumn - perhaps the most photogenic of all seasons. The moorlands turn russet and the landscape is bursting with colour. You can’t help but gasp at the beauty of the surrounding countryside. It’s also a great time to photograph the heather.

Winter - We are regularly subjected to snow flurries that coat all the surrounding mountains and hills.

WHY CHOOSE THE PEAK DISTRICT PHOTOGRAPHY CENTRE?

What other training centre can you attend that has gained approval for their courses from the British Institute of Professional Photographers, as well as Skillset (the Sector Skills Council for the Audio Visual Industries)?
We know of no other course out there that offers 2 tutors with groups greater than 5 in number; this means you will receive more personalised tuition. We also have a comfortable 15 seater minibus allowing lots of space and room whilst travelling from location to location.

Our tutors are professional landscape photographers with published books behind them. We understand that in group situations some photographers may be unwilling to ask questions, due to shyness. Our philosophy to teaching is being proactive and our tutors will rally round you ensuring you are understanding every step of the course. However at some points throughout the day, we will allow you freedom to venture out and develop your own creativity.