Ben, Switzerland
Besides the education in Photography, it’s really worth it just for Kyrgyzstan. Never imagen how beautiful this Country could be. Loved the little Commercial Shootings and Tips on the Go.
Javier, Spain
I had the pleasure of joining the two Jacks and Kai in the first Scotland workshop, and it was one of the best photographic experiences I have ever had.
The workshop was meticulously planned and expertly executed. The travels in the Discoveries were so comfortable, and the hotels we visited were really nice, especially the last one in Skye.
Jack and Kai were always ready to help with photography and editing, and in this workshop, I improved my landscape and lifestyle photography so much. They provided an advanced knowledge of each location, enabling us to prepare to take the best shots before the light came up or the mist had cleared.
We visited some of the most amazing places in Scotland, where I took some of my best pics and changed my whole style, something that helped me to grow in the social networks and find some new clients as a photographer.
The group was perfectly created, everyone loved photography, and we could talk and learn from each other I made friendships that will last for years.
Thank you for providing all the opportunities to create wonderful images and know nice people.
David, Portugal
“One of the best experiences if you want to grow your skills. It changed the way I see photography in all aspects: composition, editing, working in the field and as a business.
The workshop was four days full of great tips, amazing landscapes and lots of fun. The best way to learn something that you are passionate about. Jack knows what he is doing”.
Wesley, United States
Participating in Jack Harding’s first Sony Scotland workshop was a once-in-a-lifetime experience which fundamentally changed how I view and approach photography for the better.
I think anyone with a passion for travel and photography has a lot to gain from one of these workshops… whether you’re already quite talented or just shooting with an iPhone, the program is flexible for all skillsets. For me, the most immediate benefit was significantly improved technical abilities. I became more precise and intentional with my camera control; I set up expert storage and backup structuring; learned sophisticated Lightroom and photoshop techniques which heavily influenced the style I continue to cultivate; became a more thoughtful and successful adventure planner; and much more. None of this would’ve been possible without Jack Harding, Jack Anstey, Kai & Oscar’s fantastic teaching and mentorship.
Relatedly, they’re also pretty fantastic tour-guides as well. Very soon into the trip we could see that they were truly taking us through their home. They knew the most famous landmarks and their political and geological history, tons of hidden spots, and pretty much every hiking trail inside-out. They were well prepared for both the weather and photographic conditions of every location. Their coordination throughout the trip was frankly world-class, and I was quite impressed just observing how organised everything was. Specifically, all along the way they were very mindful and proactive with planning: having backup places at the ready in case conditions were undesirable, accounting for the mood, energy level, hunger, and even restroom constraints of our group. They definitely thought through every possibility ahead of time, and overall were super prepared while also leaving in enough time to explore and be adventurous as well.
The final point I think which made the program worthwhile (which I had underestimated going into it) was how much business expertise I would gain just witnessing them work as photographers. The “salesmanship” of photography became very real to me over the course of the trip. All of the instructors had a wealth of experience to share on subjects like getting gigs or sponsorships, building a website or media kit, managing work stress, differentiating your brand… but perhaps most impactful was getting a sense for their work ethic, which was really remarkable. I remember Jack Anstey legitimately worked around 20-hour days the entire trip. I don’t want to hold him to that standard for the next trip but damn, it was inspiring to be beside. Before the trip I sometimes thought that photographers, influencers in particular, lived this pretty easy / complacent lifestyle where you just hang out at luxury resorts and snap iPhone pictures all day, but these guys really changed my perspective. My day job (management consulting) is very strenuous so I have a high-standard for “grit,” and these guys definitely have it. They’re serious as hell and incredibly talented. It’s an inspiration just to hang out with them, as their enthusiasm and persistence to the craft is rather infectious.
Overall, I can’t recommend the workshop enough and it was probably the best investment I’ve made all year. You should absolutely apply, and if you get in make sure to bring a friend, a positive attitude, an openness to learn, and tons of willpower. Go on the extra hike, stay up late editing with the team, keep shooting after everyone wraps up… That, and the great group of friends you’ll make along the way is what will make the workshop valuable for you. If you have any questions or want to just chat with someone who’s gone through the program, feel free to DM me on Instagram @wesleyreyrivera.
Vasco, Switzerland
I went to the workshop insecure about the usage of my Sony camera as well as the photography techniques. During the workshop, I was given several shooting workflow possibilities as well as configuring the camera. So I learned how to master not only the camera but also its settings and with various feedbacks I found a shooting workflow that suits me. The workshop organizing team was extremely professional and dedicated to teaching photography. The fact that they are mostly young people, and because they share the same interests as me, each day I was seeing my doubts answered. Following their instructions or even exploring their ideas created many challenges and changed the way to see landscapes.
Tyler, United States
Terrific experience. The instruction was helpful and functional; the instructors were professional, knowledgeable, and focused on the attendees; the shooting locations/hotels/cars were excellent; and the planning and logistics were really well done. That's all not to mention the unbelievable Sony equipment, which was supplemented even further by the instructors' generous sharing of their own gear.
I felt extremely lucky to have been part of such a dynamic and talented group of individuals. It was clear that every day, trip, experience and shooting opportunity had a lot of thought and attention. Having a range of expertise between the instructors and Sony representative was extremely useful as there was always someone accessible with support and assistance, whether from a technical or artistic perspective. Scotland is already a magical place but seeing it through the eyes of such talent took the whole experience to a new level.
Tanya, United Kingdom