LOFOTEN ISLANDS
WORKSHOP 2025

During this tour, we will be sharing photography insights from over 10+ years experience in landscape and aurora photography. The tour is aimed at improving your photography skills, as well as meeting other passionate creatives and experiencing the beautiful nature that Lofoten has to offer. Therefore, you must have interest in photography – beginners, as well as intermediates are welcome!

This workshop is tailored toward both beginner and intermediate photographers. Ronald and Alejandro will be covering a wide range of topics that every participant can learn from. Moreover, our individual feedback on your photographs will help you to improve your skills, regardless of your level of experience.

The most important thing when traveling in the north is to be prepared. It can be rainy, it can be snowy and of course, it can be cold. Nature is challenging for the camera gear and in particular the cold and humidity. So the best is if you have weather-sealed gear.

On the other hand at minus temperatures, for example, rechargeable batteries do not last as long as when the sun is shining, so you should have enough spares with you so that you still have enough reserves at the end of the day when chasing the northern lights.

It is also important that you can pack your equipment in a good backpack in case of sudden weather changes. A waterproof backpack should be with you, possibly also another protective cover for it.

We don’t carry your stuff – you’re responsible for yourself.

Technical equipment:

(1) The most important thing is to have a fast wide-angle lens with you for the northern lights (min. 24mm better 20mm aperture 2.8 or faster – e.g. 24mm 1.4, 20mm 1.8, etc.)

(2) Camera (any DSLR / DSLM possible, full format is ideal)

(3) For all other subjects, a fixed focal length of around 35 to 50 mm or a 24-70 mm and a telephoto lens of 70-200 or 100-400 mm are also recommended.

(4) Filters can be packed as needed, but are not required – maybe we have some subjects available for on-site testing (not guaranteed)

(5) A decent tripod is required for recordings, especially at night

(6) Batteries and a fast charger

(7) A power bank if needed

(8) Headlamp with red light function (important so as not to disturb yourself and the other workshop participants)

(9) Drone if you like, you are responsible for all legal aspects of flying a drone within the EU (insurance, certification, and registration) – we will check that on-site.

(10) Laptop or tablet (iPad) and charger

(11) Card reader or cable

(12) Preinstalled Davinci Resolve (Free Version)

(13) Other cables you may need

The weather is not only challenging your camera gear, but you have to stay warm, especially at night when we are hunting the aurora. The temperatures could go down at night. You are responsible for your safety and comfort!

The clothing you should bring with you (minimum): 

(1) Rain Jacket

(2) Insulation Jacket for cold temperatures

(3) If possible, an insulated Parka for standing on long and cold nights

(4) Footwear suitable for winter and low temperatures, waterproof

(5) Warm socks

(6) Gloves

(7) Baselayers 

(8) Midlayer

(9) Hiking pants

(10) Rain pants

(11) Insulation Winter pants

(12) Beanie, if needed

Early February is a great time to witness the Northern Lights in the Lofoten Islands, as it is the middle of the Northern Lights season. However, it is important to note that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and their appearance is dependent on several factors, including solar activity, cloud cover, and overall weather conditions. While there is no guarantee that you will see the Northern Lights during your one-week photo workshop, the chances are high, especially if you are willing to be flexible with your schedule and are willing to go out at night to search for them. Additionally, your workshop leader will have experience and knowledge of the best locations and times to see the Northern Lights, which can increase your chances of witnessing this incredible natural spectacle.

We are currently at the beginning of a new solar cycle. Solar cycles, also known as sunspot cycles, are periods of approximately 11 years during which the sun’s magnetic field reverses and the number of sunspots and solar flares increases and decreases. The previous solar cycle, known as Solar Cycle 24, began in 2008 and ended in 2019. Solar Cycle 25 officially began in December 2019, and it is expected to reach its peak in 2025. The activity of the sun during this solar cycle will have an impact on space weather, including the occurrence of solar flares and the aurora borealis. 

The visibility of the aurora borealis is not affected by the moon. In fact, a bright moon can actually enhance the options for the Northern Lights photos by illuminating the surrounding landscape and creating a beautiful contrast between the bright moonlight and the colorful aurora – so perfect for photos. However, if the moon is too bright, it can wash out the fainter auroral displays, making them more difficult to see. More important is to choose a location with minimal light pollution for the best experience.

The likelihood of having snow on the Lofoten Islands from January 31st to February 16th can vary based on the prevailing weather patterns in a given year. However, it’s important to note that the Lofoten Islands, located in Norway’s Arctic Circle, tend to experience cold temperatures and snowfall during the winter months.

In early February, you can expect winter conditions to still be present, and there is a reasonable chance of encountering snow on the islands. The amount of snowfall can fluctuate from year to year, so it is recommended to check the weather forecast before your trip and to pack warm clothing and waterproof gear to be prepared for any weather conditions.

We will be doing some moderate hiking and walking throughout the workshop. Therefore, a good level of health is advised. Please inform us ahead of time of any medical conditions and bring your medication to the trip.

Yes! If you would like to spend a few extra days exploring Norway and applying your new found photography knowledge, you can stay after the workshop. But you will have to organize that by yourself.

Participants must be 18 years of age at the beginning of the tour.

You can confirm your spot with a deposit of 40% of the total price – non-refundable. 

The deposit payment can be made by wire transfer or credit card.

The final balance of 60% is due 30 days before the workshop.

If the participant books less than 30 days before departure: a single payment is required and the Workshop price is non-refundable.

Read the ‘Terms and Conditions’ of this workshop for more information.