An Italian Experience with Damien Lovegrove
“Join me on this photography workshop in Tuscany and I will lead you on a journey of discovery. We will photograph exquisite beauty in wonderful lost locations. Experience the breathtaking landscapes in the Val d’Orcia. Dine on the freshest, authentic Italian cuisine and have fun as the sun sets.” Damien Lovegrove
I am delighted to say that I’ll be back in Tuscany for one more time in 2022 running a similar itinary to 2021 but from a new base, the fabulous Castagnanello Estate. The new venue gives us more extensive accomodation so that everyone has an ensuite bedroom and a lot more space.
5 nights, 4 days of fabulous photography
The workshop price is $5950, €5200 or £4400. Please contact me to secure your place.
Reserve your place here
Workshop 1: 7th to the 12th September 2022
Out of stock
Workshop 2: 14th to the 19th September 2022
Out of stock
Overview
Dates: W1: 7th-12th September 2022, & W2: 14th-19th September 2022
Tutor:Â Damien Lovegrove
Genre: Portraiture
Group Size:Â Maximum of 6 participants
Price: $5950, €5200 or £4400
Deposit: $700, €580 or £500
(Balance payments are due on 17th June 2022, 90 days before the workshop)
Non-shooting partner rate: $800, €695 or £590 (This includes accommodation on a shared basis, all meals and wine)
- Four full days of photography in wonderful, rural Tuscany
- Staying at a private estate that is exclusively ours
- Two top professional models each day
- Shooting landscapes in the beautiful Val D’Orcia
- Shooting portraits in beautiful abandoned buildings
- A location shoot at a secret waterfall
- Olive groves and hilltop towns are among our shoot locations
- Fine wine and fresh home cooking included
The beautiful locations around Seggiano, Tuscany
Fresh off the press: I took these photographs during the 2021 workshop at locations in and around Seggiano. We will visit these locations for sure as they are within a 20 minutes drive from Castagnatello.
Itinerary September 2022
The exact details and timings are subject to change including the models. Our workshop days may be moved around if the weather requires us to do so.
Arrival Day ~ Wednesday
Check-in at Castagnatello from 4pm
Welcome drinks on the terrace as the sun goes down
Dinner
Workshop Day 1
Models: Leontine and Mischkah
Breakfast at Castagnatello
Abandoned farmers hut and olive grove shoot
Lunch at our a nearby Osteria
Shoot in the grounds, the bedrooms and at the pool
Dinner at Castagnatello
Workshop Day 2
Model 2: Leontine and Mischkah
Breakfast at Castagnatello
Shoot at the abandoned railway station
Lunch at a restaurant in Seggiano
Fashion on the streets of Seggiano
Dinner at Castagnatello
Workshop Day 3
Models: Leontine and Mischkah
Breakfast at our villa
Paradise pool and surprise woodland shoot
Lunch at our villa
Secret cascade shoot near our villa
Dinner
Workshop Day 4
Models: Leontine and Mischkah
Drive to Pienza (44 minutes)
Early morning landscapes in D’Orcia valley
Breakfast in the square in San Quirico
Abandoned villa shoot
Lunch at a local Trattoria
Dramatic shoot at the chapel
Drive back to Seggiano (40 minutes)
Farewell dinner at the Castagnatello
Departure Day – Monday
Breakfast at Castagnatello
Check out and depart by 10am
Accommodation – The Castagnatello Estate
Our home for this workshop will be a fabulous privately run luxury estate near Seggiano in the south of Tuscany
We will be staying in a fabulous 10 bedroom private estate with a swimming pool near the hilltop village of Seggiano. All of our rooms are en-suite. We have secured the whole estate exclusively for us so we can shoot anywhere and everywhere on site. We will have a our own chef to provide us with home cooked authentic Italian cuisine throughout our stay.
Our Models
We will have two fabulous models to photograph in Tuscany this year. They will stay with us for the duration of the workshop. Their look and personal style is unique and they complement each other perfectly. Mischkah, who has worked with me many times including on previous workshops in Tuscany and Spain will be modelling lifestyle, beauty and the Lovegrove Nude style. Leontine (Leo) who I’ve worked with in Belgium will be modelling fashion, lifestyle and beauty. Both models are superb professionals with the kindness and patience that suits workshop shooting.
Experience level
This workshop will suit intermediate to advanced photographers. If you know how to adjust manual settings on your camera you will be fine. No previous experience of working with off-camera flash is required. I’ll teach you everything you need to know. I’ll show you how to communicate with our models in a way that keeps the photographs looking relaxed and natural. You will become a more confident photographer over our four days of shooting in Tuscany. Especially when it comes to photographing people.
Mischkah. We created these photographs together on workshops over the last 6 years or so. You will spot Mischkah throughout my publications and websites because she is one of the finest models that I’ve had the pleasure to work with. Mischkah will fly in from her home in Norway to be with us on this workshop.
Mischkah and I love working with a minimal colour palette. The earth colours and fabulous textures in Tuscany will give our photographs a beautiful look.
Leontine, or Leo. The moment that Leo and I started shooting together in Belgium last month I knew that she would be perfect to bring a fashion element to our Tuscany workshop. Leo and Mischkah get on great together and having both models with us for all four days is going to be truly wonderful.
Camera kit suggestions
- A Mirrorless or DSLR camera
- Several lenses covering the equivelent of 24mm to 200mm on full frame
- A tripod for long lens landscapes (optional)
- If your camera is a DSLR you may well need a Hoodman style loupe to asses exposure
Lighting kit
I will supply all the lighting kit needed for this workshop. In a lot of instances we will be using a Lupo LED Superpanel. I will also bring a Godox AD200 Pro with me and a Scatterflash kit. I will supply flash triggers for each of the makes of camera in our group. There are dedicated triggers available for Fujifilm, Canon, Nikon, Hasselblad, Sony, Panasonic, Pentax, Leica, Phase One and Olympus.
The Landscapes of Tuscany
Places we may visit on our excursion to the Val d’Orcia
What you can expect from me – your tutor
This photography workshop in Tuscany has evolved to incorporate the best of our experiences over the past four years. You will love it. I have an honest approach to sharing my knowledge and skills gleaned over 35 years. Be prepared to soak up invaluable tips and information because these skills will give you the confidence to take your photography to the next level.
I am kind, sharing and patient. I take care to communicate in a way that reaches every level. I won’t leave you struggling if you are lost in camera menus and I won’t ignore you if you are quietly getting great photographs. What I’ll do is to show you how to build rapport and communicate with our two models to make structured poses look relaxed and natural. Nothing is left to chance. Everything has a purpose and I’ll share with you how I style each shot. I have a clear understanding of light and I’ll teach you how I find great light. Once you know what to look for, everything becomes easier. When we are using the Lupo Superpanel we will be recreating a natural lighting style. This attention to detail will ensure you capture portfolio grade images from day one and feel empowered to capture wonderful photographs on your own after the workshop too.
My workshops are not just about learning, they are fun, creative adventures. I am fastidious with the event planning and preparation. Decent preparation allows me to concentrate on delivering a fabulous learning experience. You will leave this workshop a more confident photographer with images to be proud of and memories to last a lifetime.
Your tour leader: Damien Lovegrove
What’s included
- Private en-suite accommodation at our exclusive estate
- All breakfasts, lunches & evening meals
- Refreshments – water (teas & coffee too where available)
- Two professional models with photoshoots on all four days
- Wine with lunch and dinner
After the workshop, I will offer you a complimentary 1:1 picture review session over Zoom at a time to suit you. I’ll be able to suggest different approaches to post production and give valuable feedback on your photographs. My clients have found this service to be of particular value as so much can be achieved after the shot has been taken.
What’s not included
- Flights
- Car hire or transfers
- Travel insurance
Reserve your place here
Workshop 1: 7th to the 12th September 2022
Out of stock
Workshop 2: 14th to the 19th September 2022
Out of stock
Reviews by 2016, 2017 & 2018Â Wild West road trip/ adventure attendees
Thank so much for an absolutely amazing workshop. Thank you for your enthusiasm, your willingness to share ideas and your ability to create an atmosphere of humor and serious photographing. I often look at my pictures and they makes me happy reminding me of four very very inspiring days.
Here is what Ivan Deleus from Mechelen, Belgium had to say about the 2019 Tuscany workshop…
“I had great expectations on the Lovegrove Adventures shooting trip in Tuscany. A few years ago I met Damien in Belgium on a Studio lighting workshop. I was shooting in the studio and wanted to see a pro at work. Since then I have followed Damien’s photography on the internet.
This year the Tuscany workshop came along at the right time for me. Although it was an expensive trip, it exceeded all my expectations. Epecially Damien’s didactic and technical skills, and the excellent models. The use of the ever changing natural light during the day was an eye opener for me.
We hunted for the light and sometimes the light hunted us. I have been able to take a lot of beautiful photos on this Tuscany adventure. Damien’s eye for detail and excellent organization, the locations and alternatives made this an unforgettable adventure.
Thanks Damien!
"Ivan had such a good time that he joined me again for the 2021 Tuscany workshop. These trips deliver the best life memories" Damien Lovegrove
Here is what Marie Sauter from New York had to say about the 2021 Tuscany workshop…
"What happens when you combine your vacation with a Lovegrove Adventure? Perfection happens. In addition to: glorious accommodation, fabulous food, exquisite models posed in superb locations, you receive Damien's unsurpassed photographic expertise. His guidance has not only elevated my photography, it also created wonderful travel memories. I've been on five Lovegrove Adventures and will continue to enjoy them for as long as I am able.
Thank you, Damien."
Here is what Heidi Back from Vancouver, Canada had to say about the 2019 Tuscany workshop…
I am still in awe from my third travel adventure with Damien, another trip that has surpassed my expectations. With every workshop I feel my photography is elevated to new heights, but there is more to it. It is not just about creating beyond beautiful images but creating blissful memories that last forever.
Damien: went the extra mile to make sure we all ‘got our shots’. He managed the group, program and situations very well. He is not only a world-class photographer but an amazing instructor as well; and his enthusiasm is contagious.
What makes these workshops with Damien so special is the selection of shooting locations, the high quality of the models, the level of instruction, charming accommodations and last but not least the sense of adventure.
There is a lot of thought and planning that went into this trip on your end. I am grateful that I had the opportunity to join in. I had a fantastic time and thank you all very much!
What you will have to take away from this trip to Tuscany
“I find the biggest problem my clients face, and especially when working with flash, is a tendency to overthink the situation.” Damien Lovegrove
You will come away from this workshop in Tuscany feeling immensely inspired and motivated to get out and practice what you’ve learned. My passion and enthusiasm for photography are infectious, confidence-boosting and I’ll guarantee you’ll capture images you can be proud of.
I will impart my knowledge and experience as I guide you through the creative process. Whilst learning how best to interact with your subject, you’ll master how to use professional lights and naturally available light for dramatic effect.
This workshop is limited to just 6 participants so that everyone has plenty of time and personal guidance from Damien. Expect a high-energy ‘let’s make it happen’ attitude from me as well as my usual bucketful of enthusiasm. I guarantee you’ll come away from this trip recharged with motivation.
- Feel empowered as a photographer
- Have fun doing what you love
- Become an expert
- Ignite your passion
- Build your confidence
- Learn new skills
- Invest in yourself
- Get away on an adventure
- Take fabulous photographs
- Make new friends
- Have the most amazing experience
- Wonderful memories that will last a lifetime
Reserve your place here
Workshop 1: 7th to the 12th September 2022
Out of stock
Workshop 2: 14th to the 19th September 2022
Out of stock
Photography Workshop in Tuscany – Behind The Scenes Video
Here is a behind the scenes video that I shot on the first two days of my photography workshop in Tuscany 2019. It gives you an idea of the relaxed nature of the shooting experience on a Lovegrove adventure.
As you can see, the group are energised but focussed and calm. A group size of six shooters is perfect. Everyone gets the shots that they want before we move on. The days are full and the evenings are wonderful.
Details
On this 5-night photography workshop in Tuscany, we’ll be shooting in arguably one of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe. We will photograph a mixture of portraits, fashion, boudoir, figure-in-the-landscape, and the occasional exquisite landscape. We will work with two wonderful resident models and there will be four workshop (teaching) days with arrival and departure days either side.
For the duration of this photography workshop in Tuscany, we will stay at our exclusive luxury estate near Seggiano. We will venture out to shoot in selected local abandoned farmhouses and villas that dot the countryside. We will also shoot boudoir in the bedrooms at our villa. We will shoot portraits by the pool and in the olive groves at sundown. These sessions will be relaxed and fun, instructional and inspirational.
Reserve your place here
Workshop 1: 7th to the 12th September 2022
Out of stock
Workshop 2: 14th to the 19th September 2022
Out of stock
There will not be many miles for us to cover on this trip. The emphasis will be on taking photographs under my guidance rather than traveling. Nearer the time we will create a private Facebook group so that you can get to know each other, ask questions about the lenses and equipment required and arrange car shares to and from the airport.
A lot of careful planning has gone into this photography workshop in Tuscany to make it as relaxing, inspirational, educational and as fun-filled as possible. There will be great food, good company and excellent photo-making opportunities.
“This is the trip that you and I can to look forward too right now. Secure your space and let’s establish our creative journey together.” Damien Lovegrove
The small print
A deposit payment of £500 is required at the point of booking. You can pay online via PayPal, debit/credit card or you can contact us to pay via bank transfer.
Covid-19
If this virus lurks around until September 2022 and if your country advises against foreign travel due to the Covid virus I will offer you a full refund. No quibbles.
Cancellation Policy
Should you cancel your place on this event for any reason other than Covid-19, no refund will be available unless your place is resold. If you would like to cancel please contact us by phone or email as soon as possible.
The exception to this is if we have prior notice and are able to put a cancellation place back online AND your place is resold. In this event, we will, of course, make a full refund or credit to you. We also reserve the right to cancel any workshop if there is insufficient demand, especially if it means that our costs would be higher than our income. Please, therefore, do not leave it until the last few weeks if you are interested in a particular event, as you may find that it has been removed.
Some costs for each training event remain the same regardless of how many attendees there are, just like any pre-booked tickets for the theatre, concert, flights, etc. We are therefore unable to give a full refund in the event of non-attendance, regardless of the circumstance. (The exception to this being the Covid 19 statement)
Please note that we cannot be liable for any other costs incurred by yourself, so please check with us before booking any non-refundable accommodation or transport.
Please take a look at our full terms and conditions.