Lofoten Islands & Northern Norway Photography Retreat

Chasing Autumn Light & the Aurora Borealis

9 – 18 October 2028

9 Nights | Women Only | Own Room Throughout | Small Group Max 7

Photograph One of the World’s Most Spectacular Landscapes

Welcome to an unforgettable photographic journey above the Arctic Circle.

The Lofoten Islands are consistently recognised as one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations. Towering granite peaks rise dramatically from deep fjords, colourful fishing villages cling to rugged coastlines, white-sand beaches stretch beneath ever-changing Arctic skies, and as darkness falls, ribbons of green Aurora dance across the heavens.

Designed exclusively for women who love photography, this immersive workshop combines extraordinary locations with world-class tuition, relaxed luxury accommodation and plenty of time to create images you’ll be proud to print and display.

Hosted by Travel With Lesley Whyte Tour Host Ruth and led by renowned Norwegian landscape photographer Bjørn Joachimsen, this is much more than a sightseeing holiday—it’s a genuine photography workshop where every day is dedicated to improving your creative vision, technical skills and confidence behind the camera.

Unlike many photography tours that race from one viewpoint to another, we’ll spend time working each location, waiting for the light, refining compositions and learning why an image works.

Whether your passion is landscapes, long exposures, storytelling or photographing the magical Aurora Borealis, you’ll return home with new skills, lasting friendships and an incredible portfolio of Arctic images.

Why Visit Lofoten in Autumn?

October is one of the finest months to experience Northern Norway.

The brilliant autumn colours contrast beautifully against rugged mountains and crystal-clear fjords, while the Northern Lights season is well underway, offering excellent opportunities to photograph one of nature’s greatest spectacles.

Highlights

- Photograph beneath the Aurora Borealis
- Spectacular Arctic autumn colours
- Dramatic coastal landscapes
- Ever-changing light and weather
- Quiet roads and fewer visitors
- Traditional Norwegian fishing villages
- White-sand beaches and turquoise water
- Frequent rainbows
- Incredible Arctic seafood
- Certified Sustainable Destination

Small Group Experience

Travelling in one comfortable Mercedes 4WD minivan allows complete flexibility to chase the best light and changing weather conditions.

Smaller groups also mean:

- More individual tuition
- Easier access to remote locations
- Greater flexibility
- More time photographing
- Better learning opportunities

Itinerary

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: 9 October – Arrive Oslo

Arrive into Oslo today and transfer independently to your airport hotel. A regular airport shuttle operates between Oslo Airport and the hotel from approximately 4.00am until 1.00am. Meet your Travel With Lesley Whyte Tour Host, Ruth, and enjoy the opportunity to get to know your fellow photographers before our Arctic adventure begins.

Meals: Own arrangements

Accommodation: Thon Hotel Oslo Airport

Day 2: 10 October – Fly to Lofoten & Northern Lights Workshop

Following breakfast we fly to Leknes where we’ll be met by our Norwegian photography instructor. Transfer to Sørvågen, settle into our boutique accommodation before enjoying a welcome meeting, equipment check and safety briefing. This evening begins with our comprehensive Northern Lights Photography Workshop before heading out for our first Aurora session if conditions allow.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 3: 11 October – Reine, Hamnøy & Sakrisøy

Photograph three of Lofoten’s most iconic villages while learning composition, depth, leading lines and creative landscape techniques. Evening Aurora photography.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: 12 October – Å & the Outer Coast

Explore the historic fishing village of Å and the dramatic outer coastline. Today’s tuition focuses on long exposure photography and visual storytelling.

Lightroom Classic editing session & evening Aurora photography.