Frequently Asked Questions
Please check out below as you might find the answer you are looking for
How is Tuscany Photography Day different?
In many ways. First, Tuscany Photography Day is ran on a daily basis while most workshops involve three or more days. Second, most photography workshops in Tuscany are very focused on landscape photography while here, even though all daily workshops include landscape photography, you will also have the possibility to photograph farmers, wine cellars, artisans and seasonal happenings during the year as grape picking, olive picking and more. Furthermore, at the end of the day your pictures won't be simply holiday shoots but they will tell a story about the activities you photographed and the people who were invloved in them, the environment they work in, what they do, how they do it.
What photography level do I need to be?
The most important thing for me is that you are really interested in photography as if you are you will apprehend quickly. The participants are normally amateurs or advanced amateurs but the workshop is open to everybody as I can give to each participant the tips and teachings needed depending on their level.
How is the workshop structured?
Every workshop includes:
1) A practical introduction to street photography
2) Landscape photography
Normally workshops start around 2pm. This isn't the best time to do landscape photography as the sun is very high and the light is too harsh. On the opposite, we can take advantage of this light for street photography. Strong light and deep shadows can be used to make very graphic images. Images that are made of several layers, combining all the elements in the frame in the right way.The sunset light is reserved for landscape photography. We generally spend the last couple of hours in the countryside, gravel roads, basically ... we will be off the beaten track!
What happens if it rains?
No matter what, we will go. I actually take my camera and car when it starts raining as it offers the possibility to do incredible photographs. Also, when the rain stops pouring and the sun comes back everything is wet and very reflective, this is usually the best light you can dream of. Furthermore during the day we will also be in some indoor places and in case of very strong rain we can find the way to take indoor pictures when it’s pouring badly and go out when the rain reduces.
What happens if I am late?
As there will be other people at the workshop the maximum time we can wait at the meeting point is 10 minutes. It is important that you get in touch with Alfredo by telephone as he can arrange to meet you at the first lacation we are going to visit. He will aslo try to contact you, this is why it is very important that you give all the necessary information (telephone number where you can be reached in Italy and telephone number of your place of staying) when applying for the workshop.
What photographic equipment do I need?
A good quality digital camera and its manual
Possibly two lenses: a wide angle lens and a 28-70 lens for full size sensor or equivalent.
I would also suggest to bring a long focal lens for landscape photography, 300mm.
Tripod
Storage cards
Extra batteries
Polarizing filter (optional)
Flash
How should I dress?
The first thing when going out to take pictures is to dress comfortably. Just make sure you are covered enough in different layers of cloths as if it is cold you will be prepared and if it gets hot you can still take something off and leave it in the car. I recommend comfortable shoes as we will be walking, possibly waterproof in case of bad weather. A rain proof jacket may be usefull too.
Will we eat during the day?
During the half day workshops we won’t have a proper meal but we will stop in bars along the way for a coffee or a quick snack while during the full day workshop we will stop at a restaurant or something alike for a proper meal. Though some of the half day workshop include a visit to wineries or cheese makers where we will have a chance to taste their specialities. It would be a good idea to bring an extra bottle of water with you, in case you get thirsty.
At least two people have to apply to Daily Workshops, what happens if I am the only participant?
That's right, at least two people have to apply to the workshop in order to keep prices affordable for everyone. In case of a single participant the workshop can still run but the price to be paid will be the price for two participants. The workshop will be more expensive but it will basically become the same as a customized workshop with all its advantages. Then if someone else applies for the workshop you will pay the regular price shown on the website.
I am with a group of friends and I wish to organize a few days photography workshop with you, is that possible?
Of course it is as long as I know it in advance. I can organize a three or more days customized workshop and give you a discounted price for groups. We can discuss the itinerary together and I will pick you up every day at the beginning of the workshop and drop you off at the end of it. Please enquire with me and we can make a good plan together.
What is included in the price?
My tuition for the full length of the workshop and my guidance throughout the different locations.
Is transport included in the price?
Transport is included from the meeting point to the end of the workshop at no extra charge. The only limit is that I will be able to accomodate the first 4 participants only as I have a 5 seats car. So please inquire with me if there are still seats available as if they are all already booked you will have to follow with your own car.
What is not included in the price?
Not included is the wine/cheese tasting which we will do during the workshop as a recognition toward our hosts, who kindly allow us to visit their facilities. Not included are also any expenses we may encounter as the entrance ticket to the garden or food and beverage you may want to buy during the workshop. Everyone will have to pay his/her own expenses as mentioned before because as a photography tutor I am not allowed by the Italian low to pay any expenses for my clients, for the full coverage of the expenses everything would have to be done through a tour operator.
Will I receive anything as a reminder of what I did during the workshop?
Yes, at the beginning of the workshop I will give a booklet to every participant. I have written it in a way that if you forget something that has been discussed during the workshop you can find it in there. All the techniques, tips and technical details have been included in the booklet.
Can I pay with credit card?
Yes. You can pay on site with Visa, MasterCard, Maestro, Diners and JCB.
More questions?
Please contact me and I will reply as soon as possible!