Gulf of Biskaya - France
Seven-day photo workshop with focus on
landscape, long exposure, minimalism, fine art
- since 2022 -

Course language English & German
Participants max. 6
Price: 1695.00 €

30. sept. – 06. oct., 2024 OUT OF BOOK

07. – 13. oct., 2024 OUT OF BOOK

29. sept. – 05. oct., 2025 AVAILABLE

Workshop location
The Bay of Biscay, also known as the Gulf of Biscay, stretching from the rugged cliffs of Brittany far into the south of France along the Atlantic coast, is not only an ideal destination for capturing successful long exposures due to its proximity to the water but also because of its enchanting, distinctive coastal landscapes, the imposing bridge connections between the mainland and offshore islands, and the numerous photogenic fishing huts that vary from place to place. It's an ideal destination for any ambitious photographer beyond traditional landscape photography.

Together with my Bavarian colleague Michael J. Reibert, also specialized in minimalist long exposures, we begin the photo workshop with the first highlight in northern Brittany, the impressive Mont Saint Michel. In addition to being the epitome of French landmarks, this part of France is also known for its numerous lighthouses, dreamy chateaus, and impressive fortresses. After capturing some of the most photogenic scenes in the following days, we will also visit typical French, idyllic coastal towns such as Saint Michel Chef Chef and Saint Palais sur Mer, located south of Brittany, known for their distinctive fishing huts. These coastal areas offer a variety of unique and extraordinary photographic subjects that are perfect for creating minimalist photographs. Thanks to gigantic bridge constructions like the Pont de l'île de Ré, architectural photography will also be explored towards the end of our workshop, ensuring a comprehensive experience. We'll then return to Nantes with good photos in our bags and many new impressions.

Workshop content
Evaluate different photo scenes, weather conditions, and lighting situations on-site to be at the right place at the right time, and get a feel for the many possibilities that working with various filter types, such as neutral density, gradient, and polarizing filters, offers you. Learn all about the necessary factors and composition principles for creating a harmonious, well-structured photo in the appropriate format and gradually develop a confident workflow for creating impactful and convincing photographs during the day and at night under clear starry skies. Dive into the basics of technique, learn everything about composition, and how to work with light to capture the perfect mood in your photos.
This is the ideal photography course for you, as we will impart to you the essential photography knowledge for creating inspiring fine art photos in the shortest time possible and familiarize you with all aspects of landscape photography. Step by step, from quick snapshots to breathtaking images. We'll help you improve your photography.

Image editing is an indispensable part of photography. In addition to the practical days in Japan, you have the opportunity to quickly and skillfully develop your photos in an individual online one-on-one workshop for post-processing to fully utilize the potential of your images. You will learn how to get the most out of them with Adobe Lightroom Classic and Photoshop in this online one-on-one training. You can sign up for this additional part together with the photography course on the booking page or book individual hour packages at any time.

Main focus
  • Selection of suitable photographic subjects
  • Technical basic settings of the camera
  • Achieving convincing image effects with effective composition principles
  • Creating automatic and manual exposure brackets
  • Explanation and practical application of various filter types, such as neutral density, gradient, and polarizing filters, tailored to the subject, light, and weather conditions
  • Establishment of a practical and time-saving workflow before, during, and after creating balanced long exposures during the day
  • Execution of basic exposure settings and procedures for photographing the night sky (under suitable weather conditions)
  • Review of selected participant photos in the workshop group
  • Explanation of individual post-processing steps for fine art photos and exposure brackets
Recommended camera equipment
  • Digital single-lens reflex camera or camera with manual mode
  • Interchangeable lenses (wide-angle, standard zoom, and telephoto lenses)
  • Sturdy tripod tailored to your camera and lenses
  • Remote shutter release
  • Neutral density filter ND 3.0 (Big Stopper)
  • Additional density filters, such as ND 0.9, ND 1.8, and/or ND 4.5
  • Graduated neutral density filters and polarizing filters
  • Extra batteries and memory cards
  • Camera backpack
  • Pocket- or headlamp
  • Don't have the filters listed above? No problem at all! My partner HAIDA FILTER will provide you with missing filter equipment for the duration of the photo course. By practically applying the filters and accessories at our photo spots, you can make more informed decisions about their potential purchase after completing the photo course.
Photographic experience
  • You don't need any photographic experience! Absolute beginners in photography are just as welcome as advanced photographers, and we are available to assist every participant from the first minute to the last. The aim is to expand your photographic knowledge so that you can take flawless, clean, and effectively designed photos on the first day of the workshop.
    Travel to Nantes
    • Sept. 30, 2024 | Oct. 7, 2024 | Sept. 29, 2025
    Departure from Nantes
    • Oct. 6, 2024 | Oct. 13, 2024 | Oct. 5, 2025
    Course fee
    • 1695.00 € incl. VAT
    • A deposit of 25% of the course fee is required.
    Included in the price
    • Full-day photographic guidance and instruction by Ronny Behnert and Michael J. Reibert.
    • Transport to and from Nantes Airport (NTE).
    • Transport during the workshop in the vehicle provided by us.
    • Toll and parking fees.
    Not included in the price
    • All services not mentioned.
    • Travel to and from Nantes.
    • Single room approx. 90.00 € per person/night incl. breakfast / 1/2 single room approx. 60.00 € per person/night incl. breakfast.
    • Personal expenses.
    • Gratuities.
    • Meals during the workshop.
    • City tax / tourist tax.
    • Cancellation, trip interruption, accident insurance.
    Weather / Physical requirements
    • The weather on the French Atlantic coast is considered very changeable in autumn. Low temperatures, especially in the morning and evening hours, can be expected, while it can still be somewhat warmer during the day.
    • Most photo spots are not far from public parking lots, so usually only short distances need to be covered on foot. Occasionally, there may be short hikes (easy routes and no dramatic inclines). Of course, you can always decide independently whether you want to participate in the planned tours.
    • If you have serious health restrictions, please let us know in advance so that we can find a solution.
    Further information
    • Sturdy footwear and weatherproof clothing are required!
    • Although the course does not include strenuous hiking routes, a certain level of endurance and physical fitness is required to participate in the course.
    • We do not accept liability in the event of an accident. Overseas health insurance is required.
    • The course takes place in all weather conditions.
    • The course provider assumes no liability for any damage to cameras or photography equipment during the workshop.
    • Nature and landscape conservation are important to us, so we will also consider this during our excursions on the Atlantic coast.