3 days of photography, inspiration and community in the Highlands of Scotland

OCTOBER 2022

27th 28th 29th 30th

Loch Ness, Scotland

Adrian Beasley, Marianthi Lainas, Mark Littlejohn, KJ Nasrul, Paul Sanders, Charlotte Bellamy, Lesley Lintott, Kim Grant, Bill Ward, James Kelly, Anna Deacon, Margaret Soraya, Justine Ritchie, Cassandra Baron

Workshops in the Landscape, Masterclasses & Talks 

Join us for three days of photography, inspirational speakers and workshops to fill your creative well in the wilds of Scotland. Leave the festival feeling inspired and connected to like-minded people. 

The festival is based at Polmaily House, in a secluded spot surrounded by woodlands, close to Loch Ness and the stunning glens and natural wilderness of the area.There are no barriers to joining in. Bring your camera & tripod or your smartphone or just some journals for inspiration. You do not need any photographic experience or specialist equipment to be creative. This is a small, bespoke festival with limited tickets so please book early.

DETAILS

Tickets give you access to all the festival events including one location workshop and one masterclass, pre-booked on a first-come, first-served basis. The third day is allocated on availability and could be a location workshop or masterclass. We will do everything we can to ensure you have a range of activities during your stay. You’ll make your own arrangements for accommodation. When you book, you’ll receive a list of local hotels and B&Bs so you can arrange your accommodation. There are 10 rooms available at Polmaily if you prefer to stay on site. Meals outside the schedule are your own responsibility but we have the use of the Drumnadrochit Hotel bar area in the evenings where we can meet for drinks and meals.
The festival opens with an optional dinner at Fiddlers, our local Scottish restaurant and whisky bar, giving you a chance to meet others before the festival begins.

“I wanted to create a small, bespoke gathering of creatives and photographers in one of the most beautiful locations in the UK at the height of the autumn colours. I’ve created an experience that blends inspirational talks with trips to incredible locations with great leaders, small, bespoke masterclasses, all surrounded by nature. It’s an opportunity to share an experience with other creatives who have a passion for the outdoors.”  Margaret Soraya 

SPEAKERS

SPEAKERS

Margaret Soraya

MARGARET SORAYA

Festival organiser and lover of inspiring creativity amongst others. Margaret will be around leading outdoor workshops with others and making sure everyone is suitably inspired and happy!

www.margaretsoraya.com

charlotte bellamy

CHARLOTTE BELLAMY

Charlotte Bellamy’s creative style of photography is inspired by the environment. She has found a powerful way to express her creativity through Intentional Camera Movement and multiple exposure layering of images.

www.charlottebellamy.com

ADRIAN BEASLEY

ADRIAN BEASLEY

An editing and printing nerd from Devon with a soft spot for black & white

www.abeasley.org/

lesley lintott

LESLEY LINTOTT

Instinctively attracted to creative techniques such as ICM, multiple exposure and smart phone art, Lesley uses her photography to explore and express her connection to the landscape. She is passionate about the mental health benefits of being in nature and uses smart phone photography as a mindfulness tool for freeing up creativity and reconnecting with the natural world.

www.bluefernimages.com

justine ritchie

JUSTINE RITCHIE

Photographer based in the NW Highlands working a mindful, intuitive, and immersive way. Justine is a certified Forest Bathing Guide

www.justineritchie.com

paul sanders PROFILE

PAUL SANDERS

Paul is passionate about the benefits of photography to mental health and wellness. He has a calm and measured approach, designed to help you reconnect with the world through the art of photography.

www.discoverstill.com

ANNA deacon photographer jpg

ANNA DEACON

Photographer, wild swimmer, author, Anna Deacon has photographed and published 3 books. She is passionate about well being through swimming and being in nature.

www.annadeaconphotography.co.uk

Bill Ward 6x4 © Peter Simpkin-1

BILL WARD

Photographer with a passion for creative landscape photography. Constantly in search of peace and quiet, his photography is a response, and in many ways an antidote, to the time he spends working as an actor.

www.billwardphotography.co.uk

marinathi

MARIANTHI LIANAS

Photographer, artist, and maker of books. Marinathi will talk about her work with coastal Cyanotypes and her new book as well as lead a masterclass on book binding

www.marianthilainas.com 

CASS BOOKBINDING WORKSHOP

CASSANDRA BARRON

Edinburgh based Cass Barron is passionate about creativity, community and re-purposing everyday materials to create unique and usable books. Specialising in book binding workshops and creative classes.

www.bookbindingwithcass.com

James Kelly

JAMES KELLY

A landscape photographer with a real passion for Scotland, teaching and guiding others in the outdoors. James has a warm, friendly approach to sharing his knowledge with others.

 

www.justjamesk.com

KIM GRANT

KIM GRANT

Outdoor photographer and Youtube vlogger, Kim is incredibly passionate about Scotland and its breathtaking scenery. She uses her cameras to capture and film her journey around the country, helping her connect deeply with her homeland, and her creativity in the process.

www.visualisingscotland.co.uk

kj nasrul

KJ NASRUL

Musician and trauma-informed, expressive arts psychotherapist. KJ holds workshops on creativity as a form of self-compassion for mental and emotional well-being.
mark littlejohn

MARK LITTLEJOHN

Landscape photographer living in Wester Ross, Scotland

 www.marklittlejohnphotography.com

SCHEDULE

SCHEDULE

27th  OUR FESTIVAL OPENING DINNER AT FIDDLERS RESTAURANT 6.30 PM **

Day One
28th

LOCATION WORKSHOP  8.30 - 2.00

"Forests and lochs, Glen Affric"

James Kelly

LOCATION WORKSHOP  8.30 - 2.00  

"Photography & Dip in Glen Affric!" 

Join Margaret and Anna for a morning's photography in the beautiful Glen Affric. This will be a relaxed morning where you can bring your DSLR and tripod or just your smartphone or journals. You will be free to explore the area around the loch at Glen Affric. 

End the morning with a dip in the Loch at Glen Affric. No swimming experience is necessary...Join us to truly immerse in the Highland scenery for the morning. (Qualified outdoor lifeguard present ) 

Tea / Coffee and lunch on location.  

Margaret Soraya & Anna Deacon

MASTERCLASS 9.30 - 12.30

"Forest Bathing & Mindful Photography"

Beginning with a guided forest bathing walk - a multi-sensory nature immersion practice (based on the Japanese practice of Shinrin - Yoku) that will enable you to slow down, take in the forest atmosphere and learn how to become better connected to your surroundings.

Following on from this, we’ll explore how a more mindful approach to photography can help you become more aware of your surroundings and enable you to see the extraordinary with the ordinary while encouraging you to find your own way of seeing.

Justine Ritchie

MASTERCLASS 9.30 - 1.00 

"The Art of the Book"

Join Marianthi Lainas and Lesley Lintott for a practical workshop where you will learn some of the techniques needed to start making your own handcrafted artists books.

 In this session you will make a concertina book constructed using handmade hinges, which allows for the use of heavier weight fine art paper to display your work.

For a cost of £10 payable on the day, all materials are included

Marinathi Lainas & Lesley Lintott

LUNCH 1.30 - 2.00

SPEAKING STAGE 2.00 - 2.30

Well being through nature, wild swimming & photography. 

 Anna Deacon 

SPEAKING STAGE  2.30 - 3.00

Vlogging and video recording
 
Are you shy about talking on camera? Learn how to film and express yourself through video. Find a style that suits your personality and shine in the process. 
 

Kim Grant 

SPEAKING STAGE  3.00 - 3.30

Mindful photography 

 Justine Ritchie 

TEA BREAK 4.00 - 4.20 

SPEAKING STAGE 4.30 - 5.15

Explore the concept of ICM and multiple exposures as a creative process rather than a stand-alone technique. From envisioning your images to the practical technical aspects such as shutter speed and camera movement.

If you are on workshop with Charlotte this talk will arm you with some of the techniques to make the most of the workshops.

Charlotte Bellamy

7.00 onwards 

If you wish to join others in the evening gather at the Drumnadrochit Hotel for drinks. Bar food is available. 

Day Two
29th

LOCATION WORKSHOP  8.30 - 2.00 

"Paul Sanders on location in Glen Strathfarrar"

Join Paul Sanders on a trip to Glen Strathfarrar. Lunch and hot drinks on location.

Paul Sanders & Margaret Soraya 

LOCATION WORKSHOP 8.30 - 2.00 

"Woodland ICM & Multiple Exposures"

Open your eyes to ICM and multiple exposure possibilities within woodlands. Charlotte will encourage you to recognise all your sensory experiences in the woodlands, this, in turn, will help identify what it is that you want to bring into your images. She will then guide you through looking for contrasts within your image to create strong compositions.

Charlotte Bellamy 

MASTERCLASS - 9.00 - 1.00

"A Journey into Bookbinding"

Join Bookbinder Cass Barron for a morning of creative bookbinding that will equip you with the skills to make a range of book structures - an opportunity to try your hand at this craft and leave with books that can display your photography, or be used as a sketchbook or  journal.

Cass will take you through the process from start to finish. Lots of ideas on personalising and finishing touches. 
 
Following the workshop you will have access to a series of video tutorials by Cass.

For a cost of £10 payable on the day, all materials are included

Cassandra Baron

MASTERCLASS 10.00 - 12.30

"Exploring Smart Phone Photography"
 
Based at Polmaily House with its beautiful grounds, Lesley will take you through the principles and techniques to get the most out of your smart phone photography and editing. Open up a new world of creativity and fun with just your phone.
 

Lesley Lintott 

LUNCH 1.30 - 2.00

SPEAKING STAGE  2.00 - 2.45

 Coastal Cyanotypes & mixed media images 

Marianthi Lainas

SPEAKING STAGE  3.00 - 3.30

Many people have forgotten that their natural state is as a creative, healing being. KJ will help us uncover and release the barriers between us and our expressive selves. Holding space to explore our creativity is self-compassion. 
 
“We are ourselves creations. And we, in turn, are meant to continue creativity by being creative ourselves.” -Julia Cameron 
 

KJ Nasrul 

TEA BREAK 3.30 - 4.00 

SPEAKING STAGE  4.00 - 5.00

Paul Sanders 

7.00 onwards 

If you wish to join others in the evening gather at the Drumnadrochit Hotel for drinks. Bar food is available. Live music on Saturdays. 

Day Three
30th

LOCATION WORKSHOP - 8.30 - 2.00   

"On location with Mark Littlejohn"

Walk & Talk in the forest 

Mark Littlejohn

LOCATION WORKSHOP 8.30 - 1.30 

"Woodland ICM & Multiple Exposures"

Open your eyes to ICM and multiple exposure possibilities within woodlands. Charlotte will encourage you to recognise all your sensory experiences in the woodlands, this in turn will help identify what it is that you want to bring into your images. She will then guide you through looking for contrasts within your image to create strong compositions

Charlotte Bellamy

LOCATION WORKSHOP  - 8.30 -2.00

"Reelig Glen location workshop"

Photograph the ancient forest of Reelig Glen. With some of the tallest trees in Scotland and a winding river, known locally as the Fairy Glen.   

James Kelly 

MASTERCLASS 10.00 - 12.30

"Exploring Smart Phone Photography"
 
Based at Polmaily House with its beautiful grounds, Lesley will take you through the principles and techniques to get the most out of your smart phone photography and editing. Open up a new world of creativity and fun with just your phone.
 

Lesley Lintott 

MASTERCLASS 10.00 - 12.30

"Creativity and self compassion"

Creativity as a form of self compassion and mental wellness. Moving past blocks and enjoying the freedom of creating. 

In today's gathering, KJ will guide you through mindful movement and art journaling to help us remember and e𝓂𝒷𝑜𝒹y creativity for true compassion. 

KJ Nasrul 

LUNCH 1.30 - 2.00

SPEAKING STAGE  2.30 - 3.00

In Search of Reconnection and Quiet…

Photography as a way of finding reconnection with nature, the joy of being present in the moment, the sense of improvisation and going with what you’re given.

Join Bill Ward as he takes us on a journey behind his seascapes, ICM, Multiple Exposures and Abstract Images

 
**Provisional session based on Bill's availability 
 

Bill Ward 

TEA BREAK 3.30 - 4.00 

SPEAKING STAGE 4.00 - 4.45

Mark Littlejohn

SPEAKING STAGE 5.00 - 5.45 

Closing the festival, Margaret will share thoughts and images to inspire. 

Margaret Soraya

7.00 onwards 

If you wish to join others in the evening gather at the Drumnadrochit Hotel for drinks. Bar food is available. 

STAY

STAY

Accommodation costs are not included in the festival fee.

  • We have secured a delegate rate with the Drumnadrochit Hotel.
  • Other recommended locations include Loch Ness Glamping ( on-site ), 1 loch ness hostel and other hotels and airbnbs in Drumnadrochit on the list. Polmaily is 5 mins away from Drumnadrochit and we can collect and drop off at accomodation.
  • 4 camper van spots are available at Polmaily, non-electric, with the use of outside toilets and a swimming pool. Plus self serve breakfast - £20 per night.

The village is 5 mins drive from Polmaily (the festival site) and has a Co-op, Chinese, pizza and fish and chips take away and two restaurants.

Here are a few suggestions which might help you decide on accommodation.

 

DRUMNADROCHIT HOTEL

A large basic hotel in the centre of Drumnadrochit with a coffee shop. We have secured a delegate only price of £79 per night. The bar / restaurant is where you can meet others in the evenings.   Website

 

LOCH NESS INN

A traditional Scottish inn, built in 1838, offers a contemporary feel with a  restaurant and bar.  Website

 

CAMPERVAN SPOTS AT POLMAILY

Four spots are available at Polmaily House for vans. Non-electric, use of outside toilets, swimming pool and basic shower in swimming pool block. Continental breakfast each morning. £20 per night. Contact Margaret to book.

 

LOCH NESS GLAMPING
Walking distance from Polmaily, a B&B and glamping pods.  Website

 

CHERRYBANK
Self Catering on West Lewiston, close to the Inn Website

 

BORLUM BAY CAMPSITE
Drumnadrochit's campsite located at Borlum Bay Farm and riding centre. Website

BOOK

BOOK

Ticket price includes :

  • 3 days entrance for all talks.
  • One location-based workshop on first come first served based.
  • One masterclass at Polmaily.
  • Your 3rd day will include either a location or masterclass, dependent on availability. You will be asked for preferences upon booking and we will do our best to allocate spaces fairly.
  • 3 days sandwich lunch, morning and afternoon teas and coffees.

*Booking is confirmed upon receipt of payment

*Tickets are limited so are sold on a first come first serve basis.

Your ticket is valid for all 3 days.

Tickets are non-refundable.

Speaker line up subject to change.

Please read the full Terms and Conditions - Please make sure you have travel insurance! 

** Opening meal on the 27th is optional and payable on the evening. £25 per head, set menu of Scottish traditional food in our local family run Whisky bar! Please let us know if you'd like to join.

Creative Haven Member price £515 

Non-member price £540

CONTACT

CONTACT

Please let me know if you would like to book a ticket and I will get back to you with availability. Tickets are very limited so please book soon to avoid disappointment!

Email: admin@creative-light.co.uk

Margaret Soraya 

Invalid Email

Please let me know if you would like to book a ticket and I will get back to you with availability. Tickets are very limited so please book soon to avoid disappointment!

Email: admin@creative-light.co.uk

Margaret Soraya