Upper Teesdale Photography Workshop – Waterfalls, Moorland & Creative Landscape

Upper Teesdale Photography Workshop — Waterfalls, Moorland & Creative Landscape

Upper Teesdale is one of those places that feels far bigger than it really is. The River Tees cuts through wild moorland, dropping over some of England’s most impressive waterfalls before winding past ancient woodland and stone barns that look unchanged for generations. It’s a landscape full of movement and texture, and it rewards photographers who are prepared to slow down and look beyond the obvious view.

This two-day workshop is fully hosted so you can concentrate entirely on making photographs. If you live in Teesside I’ll pick you up from home, and for anyone travelling from further afield you can simply meet us in Teesdale on the morning of day one. All transport during the workshop is taken care of, so there’s no convoy driving or hunting for car parks.

We’ll be based in the centre of Middleton-in-Teesdale at the Teesdale Hotel, a traditional 18th-century coaching inn right on the market place. I’ve booked upgraded double rooms for sole use so everyone has space to relax after a long day outside, and a proper cooked breakfast is included on day 2. The hotel has a great reputation for its friendly welcome, locally sourced food and a cracking bar – exactly what you want after a day on the hills.

Rather than rushing from spot to spot, we’ll work with the character of the area: the power of High Force, the swirling drama of Cauldron Snout, and the quieter details along the River Tees. There are wide moorland views when the light opens up, and plenty of intimate woodland and river studies if the weather turns softer. The aim isn’t to collect postcards, but to help you come away with images that feel considered and personal.

Why this time of year?

Late spring is perfect for Teesdale. The landscape is beginning to green up, the trees have fresh growth and there’s colour along the riverbanks without the heavy summer crowds. Temperatures are usually kinder than winter trips, making longer days outside far more enjoyable. Water levels are often still healthy from spring rain, ideal for waterfalls, and sunrise and sunset times are civilised enough that we can make the most of the day without punishing early starts.

What we’ll cover

The workshop is aimed at photographers who already understand the basics and want to move beyond them. We’ll look at developing a personal approach to well-known locations, composing in busy, chaotic scenes, working creatively in flat midday light and refining long-exposure technique. There will be plenty of one-to-one guidance in the field, tailored to the kind of images you want to make rather than a one-size-fits-all checklist.

Follow-up critique session

A week or two after the trip we’ll meet back at the Yarm studio for a dedicated critique and mentoring session once you’ve had time to edit your photographs properly. We’ll look at image selection, processing choices and how you can push the set further – a huge part of turning a good trip into genuinely strong final images.

Locations we’re likely to use

High Force and Low Force for power and movement, Cauldron Snout and the Wynch Bridge for drama and texture, quieter stretches of the River Tees for intimate detail, and moorland viewpoints for evening light. The exact plan will always follow the weather – Teesdale is at its best when you stay flexible.

Suggested kit

Bring a camera you know well, a sturdy tripod and, if you have them, ND filters for controlling shutter speed around the waterfalls. A wide to standard zoom will cover most situations, with a short telephoto useful for picking out details. Waterproof boots with good grip are important as paths can be damp and uneven, and layers are better than one heavy coat. A small backpack, lens cloth and a simple flask will make the days more comfortable.

What’s included

Transport from Teesside or meeting in Teesdale, all travel during the workshop, one night at the Teesdale Hotel in an upgraded double room for sole use, a hearty breakfast, guiding and tuition throughout, and a post-workshop critique session at the studio. The group is limited to six photographers so there’s plenty of time for individual help.

Who it suits

Photographers who are comfortable with their camera, enjoy learning on location rather than in a classroom, and want new places to shoot without the hassle of organising everything themselves. A reasonable level of mobility is needed for uneven riverside paths, but we work at a relaxed, friendly pace with plenty of breaks.

Price & booking

£345 per person
Deposit £95 to secure your place
Maximum six participants