Frequently asked questions and photography courses
Do I need to have any experience?
No – we cater for all levels of experience, including those who have never handled a digital SLR before. We have a small number of digital SLRs available for guests to borrow. In order for us to plan the tours and workshops, we would be grateful if you could let us know your experience and personal expectations at time of booking.
How fit do I need to be?
Some of the locations we visit will require a short walk but nothing too strenuous. We can tailor our tours and workshops accordingly. If you have any special needs, medical conditions or access issues, please let us know at the time of booking.
What about the weather? Are the workshops and tours weather dependent?
The weather on Mull is unpredictable. Weather fronts sweep in from the Atlantic. But it is these very changeable weather conditions which make the island such a great place to practise the art of landscape photography. Rain can bring good conditions for landscape photography, particularly on the edge of a weather front when bad weather is leaving and good weather arriving or vice versa. Poor weather can also give an atmospheric or brooding feel to images. One of the themes which we address during tours and workshops is how to respond to changing lighting and weather, making the best out of the prevailing conditions.
Of course, we may not always be on the edge of a weather front. During sustained periods of rain, we head into woodland. This not only offers shelter but woodland is generally best photographed during dull or wet conditions. During sunny or bright weather, woodland can be difficult to photograph because of the high contrast. Wet weather also tends to saturate colours (almost acting as a natural polarising filter) and brings out more detail, particularly in abstract or intimate images. Judicious use of a plastic bag or waterproof cover (which we carry with us) will help protect our cameras, as will the deployment of umbrellas! In the event of sustained poor weather, we can retreat to the studio at Taigh Solais in Tobermory for indoor tuition or feedback on images.
What about accommodation?
With the exception of our all inclusive holidays, Islandscape Photography is unable to provide accommodation, however, we can provide advice on places to stay to suit every budget on request.
Can I bring a film camera?
Yes. If you attend one of our workshops which includes a critique of the day’s images, you may wish to bring a compact digital camera to enable feedback.
How do I get to the Isle of Mull?
The Isle of Mull is accessed by Caledonian MacBrayne ferry from Oban, Lochaline and Kilchoan. Timetables, fares and online booking are available at www.calmac.co.uk.
When is the best time to visit? Are tours and workshops available all year ‘round?
Tours are available all year ‘round and each season has its attractions for the photographer. The light is at its best in the autumn, winter and spring and sunrise and sunset times are at a much more civilised hour. Summer brings long days and short nights (in June and July, it is almost as if it doesn’t get dark) and the island is vibrant with wildlife and wild flowers.
Can I book at short notice?
Absolutely – our aim is to be as flexible as possible. We run tours and workshops all year ‘round and we accept bookings until the day before. However, tours and workshops fill up quickly and places may be limited, so we recommend early booking to avoid disappointment.
Are you insured?
Yes. We carry full public liability insurance and the vehicle is insured on a commercial basis to carry passengers. We strongly recommend that you obtain the appropriate travel insurance cover for the duration of the itinerary and for the activities undertaken and before the tour or workshop starts. The insurance must cover the loss, expenses and damages arising from, including but not limited to, the cancellation of the holiday (whether in whole or in part), personal accident and injury, damage to or loss or theft of belongings and equipment (including camera equipment) loss of baggage and personal money and belongings and flight or ferry cancellations and delays. The Land Rover Defender also has a full private hire licence from Argyll and Bute Council to carry passengers and has passed a full safety inspection by the local authority. Sam Jones also holds a private hire driver's licence from Argyll and Bute Council.
What about my non-photographer partner and offspring?
Tempted, but worried about your non-photographer other half or offspring? Tobermory and the Isle of Mull offer a range of activities and attractions to keep the family entertained whilst you indulge your passion for photography. From August 2010, we will be offering family photography tours on demand - see our workshops page.
What should I bring with me?
You should bring boots, waterproof gear and your camera and tripod if you have one. We have a small number of tripods and digital SLRs for guests to borrow - please let us know at the time of booking if you require this. You should also bring a packed lunch.
What is included?
Transport to and from locations and tuition. You should bring your own packed lunch.
How many places are there on tours and workshops? Is there a minimum number?
Although our Land Rover Defender has six passenger seats, we take a maximum of four guests on day tours and workshops to ensure guests' comfort and to allow for adequate storage space. There is no minimum number for our workshops or full day tours. Our half day photography tours are guaranteed to run for two guests. We also offer bespoke one-to-one workshops and tours.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept payment via PayPal, most major credit and debit cards as well as by cheque (if your booking is more than fourteen days in advance). Due to high bank charges, we regret that there is a small charge for credit and debit card payments.
What is your privacy policy?
Islandscape Photography does not sell, rent or otherwise distribute the personal information you provide us to third party advertisers.
Can I bring the children along?
From August 2010 we will be introducing special family photography tours - please see our workshops page.
