7–12 November 2025 | Maximum 6 Participants | All-Inclusive | Departs Christchurch
Join us as we return to the breathtaking Lake Brunner for an unforgettable Women in Photography Retreat — where misty alpine rivers, cascading waterfalls, and macro magic await. Think the Wanaka Tree… but tenfold! 🌿💦
From the moment we meet at Christchurch’s Commodore Hotel on Friday, 7 November at 3:00 pm, until we return you to Christchurch around 3:00 pm on Wednesday, every detail is taken care of — all you need to do is arrive ready to shoot, learn, and create.
What’s Included
- Return ground transport from Christchurch
- 5 nights’ accommodation – choice of own ensuite room or share twin with ensuite
- All meals – daily breakfast, lunch, and cooked dinners
- Personalised photography mentoring and post-processing sessions
- Printing of your final images on premium A3+ paper
With a maximum group size of six, this retreat is ideal for photographers of all levels — from beginners wanting hands-on support to experienced photographers looking to refine their creative vision.
What You’ll Experience
Our Capture to Print program combines classroom learning and in-field practice, set amidst the dramatic landscapes of New Zealand’s Southern Alps. You’ll explore:
📸 Macro & dappled light photography
🌊 Long exposure waterfalls and alpine rivers
🌄 Landscape composition and creative storytelling
💻 Lightroom Classic & Photoshop editing
🖨️ Printing your final images ready for framing (A3+ & A4)
Expect plenty of time for experimentation, reflection, and creative growth — supported every step of the way by your mentor, Lesley Whyte.
Itinerary Highlights
Friday:
Meet Lesley at the Commodore Hotel (3:00–4:00 pm) for a welcome session and pre-retreat briefing. Complimentary airport shuttle available.
Included: Dinner & accommodation.
Saturday:
Depart after breakfast for the scenic drive to the West Coast’s Lake Brunner Lodge, stopping en route to capture the stunning alpine landscapes of Arthur’s and Porter’s Pass.
Included: Transport, accommodation, breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Sunday–Tuesday:
On-location photography sessions, editing, and printing workshops surrounded by forest, rivers, and reflective waters.
Included: Transport, accommodation, all meals.
Wednesday:
Final image review and print session before returning to Christchurch by 4:00 pm. Plan homeward flights from 6:00 pm onward.
Included: Transport, breakfast & lunch.
What to Bring
Your camera kit (camera body, wide-angle, telephoto, and macro lenses), tripod, filters, headlamp, and laptop or tablet with Lightroom Classic and Photoshop Mobile installed.
(A Nikon Z fc camera with lenses will be available for use if you’re thinking of upgrading!)
Fitness & Suitability
A moderate level of fitness is required, as some walks involve uneven ground, rocks, and mossy forest terrain (one up to 30 minutes). This retreat is open to all photographers familiar with basic camera settings.
Pricing & Booking
💲 $3,700 per person – own room at Lake Brunner & Commodore Hotel
💲 $3,200 per person – share twin room at Lake Brunner, own room at Commodore Hotel
All-inclusive (excluding travel to/from Christchurch, travel insurance, alcohol, and personal snacks).
If you’re driving, Commodore Hotel offers complimentary parking.
Cancellation Policy:
Payments are non-refundable unless your place is filled. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. If we must cancel, you’ll receive a full refund or credit toward another retreat.
Ready to Capture the Magic of Lake Brunner?
Secure your place today — spaces are limited to just six photographers.