Workshop: Santorini island, Greece, 05 – 12 June 2012
Price: £ 950 / Deposit £100 (£100pp discount for room sharing)
Availability: Two places left
Location introduction
Santorini is one of the most magical islands in Greece. It is a barren, rocky island just opposite a volcano, with black and red beaches and towns situated on high cliffs, offering breathtaking views and fantastic sunsets. Santorini has a dramatic beauty as opposed to lush and green islands. The volcano is still active, and the last eruption was in 1950, causing an earthquake that destroyed many villages on the island.
The island’s official name is Thira and its main town, Fira, is also the capital of the Cyclades islands. Approaching the island by boat the immediate impression obtained is, this is a Greek island unlike any other. The island of Santorini was formed out of the lava from the volcanic eruption in 1660 BC. The central part of the volcano sunk into the sea leading to the emergence of Santorini itself and the tiny neighbouring islands of Thirasia, Palaia and Nea Kameni close by. This is one of the reasons why many believe Santorini really is where Atlantis once was.
Today, Santorini is the only inhabited Caldera (volcano cauldron) in the world. Unlike other islands in Greece, the towns and villages sit densely on top of the massive cliffs of the Caldera and from a distance appear like snow capping the towering mountain tops. The coloured strata of the volcanic rock of these cliffs are spectacular in themselves: chocolate brown, rust red, yellow ochre, white and cream. The geological uniqueness however is not the only thing that makes Santorini a special holiday destination.
Everyone has read about the spectacular sunsets that occur on this island and the sceptic may question whether the setting sun can really appear differently here than from the neighbouring islands of Naxos or Ios. Nevertheless, the sunsets at Santorini, viewed from the Caldera, really are breathtakingly beautiful when seen as a backdrop to the volcano. The colours that streak the sky change from lilac to deep purple, from yellow to orange to red, as the golden sun sinks and becomes blood red reflecting its light on to the sea and the surrounding little islands.
The eastern slopes of the island are green and fertile, even in October. This is due to the copious vineyards that grow so well in the fertile volcanic soil. The terraced slopes of the mountains use every available part of this fertile land.
The island has changed names through history. Originally it was called Stroggyli “round” since that was the shape of the island. When the Phoenicians arrived, they named it Kallisti “the very best”, and finally it got the name Thira after its first ruler. The Romans originally used the island as a place for exiles, but later helped in building up the island. The Christianization of Santorini took place between the 2nd and 5th century.
The island was often ravaged and even destroyed by pirates and in 1204 it was conquered by the Venetians.It was about then the island got its current name. The islands patron saint was Ag Irini (St Eirene) and the foreign sailors called her St Irini – thus Santorini. The island was destroyed by the Venetians in 1354, and once again in 1397, this time by the conquering Turks. In 1821 Santorini joined forces with the Greek revolutionists and the island was subsequently freed from Turkish rule.
A few more things
We will be based at Karterados village near the centre of the island, a perfect location for our daily excursions.
Although Fira is the capital of the island, Oia is where all the beauty lies and where everything is happening. A few different factors have a lot to answer for that of course. The place is spotless, the way it’s been built is unique and of course, without any doubt, you get the best sunset views, although it gets extremely busy during that time with thousands of tourists.
Oia is a visitor’s heaven and it all comes down to that clean cut look and its amazing sunsets. The entire village (like most of the island) is built right on the cliff’s black rock, which creates a huge contrast when combined with the white houses and their colourful doors, windows and staircases. We should not forget the white washed churches with their Mediterranean blue domes of course.
The next places south of Oia are Imerovigli and Firostefani. Having been on the island many times by now, I would say that these two villages are equally beautiful. My personal favourite one would be Firostefani.
Moving away from these three villages, you get into a more reality stricken world; that of the local life with the ordinary houses and patios, nothing fancy really, plain and simple world but with its own beauty signature. Lovely back yards with vividly colourful pots, plants and people, one never fails to notice the photographic possibilities.
All the way from the one end of the island to the other, all villages have something different to offer, they all have their own style. Imerovigli, Firostefani, Fira, Perissa, Megalohori, Akrotiri, Pyrgos and so on. The locals are very friendly and wouldn’t stop to think twice for a pose in front of the lens.
Colourful patterns, shapes, colours, abstract photography. This island is a glorious haven for photographers. Plenty to photograph even after the sun goes down, as the villages are well illuminated and during the night, they have their own charm. However, so has the Greek cuisine with its tasty treats. Even if you try to get out for some late photo shooting, the glorious fragrances that come out of the local restaurants wouldn’t let you have a chance. It is time for Bon Appetit.
Who is this course for:
All beginners entering landscape photography and could do with help. Intermediates looking to improve their skills. Advanced level looking for some inspiration or new and exciting places to visit. However, does it really matter if you are a beginner or a well advanced photographer? You will find yourself that this island, not only has something to offer to everyone but also, it can be an amazing holiday destination; this tour combines both, come enjoy Santorini with us.
What you should bring with you:
Mainly cool clothes as it gets lovely and warm during June. The temperature is usually between 20 – 30 Celcius. However, a light jacket is some times necessary as during the evening it gets cooler. Light walking boots is also a good idea as there is uneven terrain to walk to. Your photography gear (check with airline allowances for back packs) and a few prints or digital files of your previous work for constructive feedback and discussion within the group.
What is included in the price:
Eight days (seven nights) accommodation on a non sharing basis and with no single supplement, breakfast and lunch. Transport to and from airport and all transport during the course. One to one and group tuition. Lightroom tutorial on image processing, for those with not much knowledge on the subject. This will give you an idea on how to best present the beautiful images taken during the course. Also, screen presentations of Dimitri’s own work and of your own images made during the course. Dimitri believes that feedback from the whole group, improves the way you see photography. Extensive technical notes to take with you and also, after course advice via phone/email.
What is excluded:
Cancellation insurance, meals not mentioned above, drinks and flights.
Course times and flights:
I will meet all participants at Santorini airport on Tuesday 05 June 2012 around noon (depending on flights). There are flights from London Gatwick with Easyjet, as well as flights from Manchester, Newcastle and London with Thomson and Thomas Cook. For countries out with UK, please check with your travel agent.
Accommodation
We will be staying at Villa Manos, a family run hotel in a very friendly environment. www.villamanos.gr
Client’s Santorini gallery
Finally
This tour is ideal for couples even if your partner is not into photography, as we will be photographing 3 hours in the early morning and 3 hours in the evening. The rest of the day can be spent relaxing, swimming by the pool and having lunch with the group. Your non photographic partners, will definitely enjoy those lovely photographic walks with the group during the evening, absorbing the glorious sunset light. Main meal will be after the sunset shoot. In general, anyone can have a superb holiday with unforgettable memories.
There will be a small degree of exercise involved in some of the walks (some steps) but don’t panic, we do appreciate that this is your holiday and we will allow plenty of time for these locations. We most definitely want to get any chance to photograph the island and the lovely weather will make sure of that. However, the last evening we will have a presentation of the images taken during the course and then, our usual goodbye supper.
Please, have a look at the images from the island and prepare yourself for some stunningly artistic photography. We guarantee you will go back home with some superb images, even if you use a compact camera. There is endless potential on the island, even for black and white photography, a little bit for everyone.
Now then. Would you like to be with us next time? Do not hesitate, this tour is very popular and spaces are limited. Click the “Add To Cart” button above and reserve your space. You can pay by using your debit or credit card and you DO NOT need to have a Paypal account. If you would like to pay by cheque instead, please contact us and we will send you the details.
A deposit of £100 is required for booking this tour, the remaining balance will be paid eight weeks before the tour date.