Why should I book with Lightstalker Adventures?
Your guide and tutor Glen Campbell has been running workshops and tours all over the world for over 20 years. From his home in the Scottish Highlands he’s led trips to the USA, Africa, Europe, Scandinavia and the Antipodes.
Glen is an easy going experienced communicator, has formal photography qualifications from NMIT Melbourne and has won numerous awards including Landscape Photographer of the Year twice during his time in Australia.
He has a relaxed teaching style that lets each participant learn at their own pace. There is no question he hasn’t been asked and he’s more than happy to offer guidance and support when it’s needed.
You can read some of Glen’s client testimonials here
Who Guides the Trips ?
Glen does. He has already researched and photographed every location and made the mistakes so that you won’t. He doesn’t contract out to other guides or use others that may not have the motivation or focus to deliver the best all round experience for his clients.
How experienced do I need to be ?
We all have to start somewhere, so beginners are welcome but it’s worthwhile getting to know your camera gear and its controls before you arrive.
Where will I stay ?
This can be a big part of the experience so I take my time selecting the most practical and comfortable accommodation that compliments the location. At the vast majority of locations you will always have your own room at no extra cost.
What camera gear do I need ?
“ The best camera is the one you have”.
It’s great to have great gear but at the end of the day they all do the same thing, take pictures. The results just vary in quality. So don’t get too hung up on needing expensive gear at the beginning.
I’m happy to advise if you’re in the market for new equipment. For most trips you’ll need a good quality tripod, lenses from wide angle to telephoto, these will give you options for different compositions and in dodgy weather.
So 16mm-35mm wide angle / 24-70mm midrange / 70 to 200mm telephoto are the go to focal lengths ideally.
What do we do if the weather is bad ?
“ There is no such thing as bad weather for photography just bad photography” Ansel Adams.
Coming from the Scottish Highlands I’ve learned to deal with whatever the North Atlantic can throw at me.
From damp days in the Highlands to blizzards in Iceland and sandstorms in Namibia. Everyday is an opportunity to learn, adapt to changing weather and create opportunities that exist in the given conditions.
Mist, rain, sun and snow all create opportunities we just have to be prepared for all eventualities depending where we are.
What will I learn ?
You will draw confidence from being able to create great images in situations that you didn’t realise were possible.
You will learn how to pre-visualise your final image based on your camera’s limitations and develop that image in post production.
Understand the difference in composing images using different focal lengths.
Gain an understanding of light quality, predicting outcomes and how to compose the scene to best effect.
Practice interpreting Histograms and gain a better understanding of exposure.
Create compositions with impact.
Which lens to use in a given situation and why.
Learn to see, not just look.
Get it right in camera – Learn that photography is more than just clicking a button and relying on Photoshop to make it look cool. Creating the magic in camera and managing the process is key.
How much tuition will I get ?
I teach by example, I offer insights into composition, exposure, point out ideas and lead you to them without spoon feeding, which is counter productive.
You are your own best teacher and you need to gain confidence from your successes and learn from the failures too. I will guide you and answer any question you have regardless of how basic it is.
I respect every participant regardless of their level of experience. Some need more help than others and that’s absolutely fine.
What’s the difference in Formats
Workshops: More 1-2-1 hands-on technical help, single base, repeat locations, image reviews and creative support. Suitable for – beginner to advanced.
Photo Adventure (tours): Multiple bases, more locations and time spent exploring, photographing, and soaking up the culture while traveling the region. Initial practical group tutorial and on-going help as required. Suitable for – beginner to advanced.
World Discovery: A more intimate and raw travel experience with a maximum of 3 or 4 participants. More of an expedition than a tour with a few bumps along the way. Creative support, but you’ll need to be technically competent with all your gear. Suitable for –intermediate to advanced photographers.
How many participants on each trip ?
A maximum of 6 participants, on the odd occasion 7. Some workshops can have a max of 4 and World Discovery adventures are max 3. Having bigger groups complicates time at locations and dilutes the experience. Bigger groups are for the companies benefit, not yours.
What level of fitness is required ?
I have clients in their 30s and some in their 80s. Fitness is subjective but you should be able to carry your backpack, be ok over uneven terrain, and be able to walk a least a mile with it.
Every trip is different, walking in sandy deserts, hiking in Scotland, and frozen paths in Norway all present different challenges. If you’re unsure then just drop me an email and we’ll have a chat.
What’s the cancellation policy ?
Once you decide to join a trip you place a deposit to secure your spot. If you cancel these are non refundable unless I am able to fill your place then you may be offered a refund or credit towards a future trip. See terms and conditions for more info.
Do I need insurance?
Yes – To cover your trip cost and emergency travel health insurance for the country you are traveling to – this is a prerequisite. You should also look at equipment cover in case of theft, loss etc.