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You are here: Home / Photography Workshops / Scotland & England Photography Workshop

Scotland & England Photography Workshop

Explore historic cities, ancient villages, dramatic highlands, and coastline at the peak of fall light.

Join us for an unforgettable photography journey through London, the Cotswolds, and the Highlands of Scotland this October. We begin with the urban landscapes and rich culture of London, transition to the storybook villages of the Cotswolds, and then venture north for dramatic mountain landscapes, moody seascapes, and rugged terrain unrivaled worldwide.

Every day includes purposeful shooting opportunities at sunrise and sunset, thoughtful instruction, and ample time to explore and create.

Register Now for the Oct 15, 2026 – Oct 26, 2026 England/Scotland Adventure

What’s Included:

  • Pre-workshop Zoom session to cover workshop details and instructional preview
  • 11 nights of premium lodging (Central London, Cotswolds manor-style property, Edinburgh, Glencoe, Isle of Skye, Torridon, and Heathrow airport hotel)
  • Private van transportation with a professional driver throughout England and Scotland (Cotswolds, Highlands, Isle of Skye, Torridon)
  • Train travel from London King’s Cross to Edinburgh Waverley & return
  • Daily in-field instruction and composition guidance
  • Location scouting and logistical planning
  • Small-group format for flexibility and personalized feedback.
  • When available – Critique/editing session for those interested
  • Post-workshop Zoom session to cover editing & additional critiques.
Register Now for the Oct 15, 2026 – Oct 26, 2026 England/Scotland Adventure

What’s NOT Included:

  • Airfare to and from London (LHR)
  • Transportation from the airport to the central London hotel on October 15
  • Transportation from the Heathrow airport hotel to the departure terminals on October 26
  • Meals and beverages
  • Alcohol
  • Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
  • Personal expenses and optional activities

The Class Was Exceptionally Well Thought Out!

I was able to learn more in my four hours with David and Barry than I could have anticipated. The class was exceptionally well thought out and organized! I look forward to future classes!!

Camille U

I Feel Like I Can Use The Software Now

Thank you so much for this class. I have watched the training videos but felt so overwhelmed with the information. David made the class easy to follow, informative and instructed in a way that I feel like I can use the software now.

AnneMarie K

Loads of fun

Based on my experience, you can be assured that this workshop will be loads of fun and will help you do a better job of accomplishing what you want to accomplish with the equipment that you are currently using.

Larry P

Never disappointed!

I have attended several workshops with Barry and David and I have never been disappointed. Workshops are always well organized and I learn a lot from their experience and from one-on-one time with each of them.

James B

Patience and one on one learning!

 I went on the Caddo Trip in 2020 as well as 2021. Returning to the same location really confirmed how my skills have improved due to the patience and one on one learning provided by David and Barry.

Rhonda H.

Meaningful & Informative

They have so much patience with every participant to make their experience meaningful and informative for everyone.

Exactly what I came for

Just wanted to say thanks and let you know how much I enjoyed your Ft. Griffin Workshop. I left with more knowledge of night shooting and light painting which is exactly what I came for. Great job.

Curtis Rogers

Terms We Can Understand

 Another great workshop! David explains everything in terms that we can understand. Every level of abilities can learn something new and accomplish the objective for the workshop. – Shauna

No Matter Your Skill Level, You Won’t Be Disappointed!

Sign up for a workshop! Through the one on one coaching of David and Barry, I came away with more confidence in my ability to get great landscape and astrophotos. No matter your skill level, you won’t be disappointed.

Rhonda H

Great time learning with David & Barry

Had a great time learning about astrophotography & light painting with Dave & Barry.

Debby R

Images to cherish!

You need to experience the Colorado Fall Colors workshop at least once! The variety of scenery, locations, and drives provide every photographer with images to cherish!

Walk away with a shot that makes you shout “YAY!”

Loved this workshop. David and Barry had such an organized program. I have been to many programs but never one that gave each person the attention to be able to walk away with that shot that makes them shout YAY! I for sure will attend their workshop again.

Sherri R

I’m signing up for more!

What an amazing workshop! My comfort level with night photography has increased so much due to the hands-on learning that Barry and Dave provided. I’m signing up for more classes.

Rhonda H.

Exactly what I came for

I left with more knowledge of night shooting and light painting, which is exactly what I came for. Great job.

Curtis Rogers

WOW! I will never forget that!

Let me show you a better composition . . . WOW! I will never forget that.

Celia J.

Perfect Workshop!

Benton Downs is the perfect workshop avenue if you love being out in nature, improving your photo skills, and spending time with fabulous and fun photographers. So nice to be away from the city!

Relaxed Approach

With each workshop I take from David and Barry I learn more and more. Their relaxed approach and their commitment to making sure my questions are answered and that I get the shot is so rewarding. This won’t be my last workshop with them. – Marsha L

I feel the passion for photography and care for each attendant –

This was my first time with Dave and Barry. I am impressed with how well it was thought out, from the pre-trip Zoom meeting, activity planning, and grouping to post-workshop follow-up. I feel the passion for photography and care for each attendant –Kathy Z

Stunning Improvement!

After decades of self-taught photography, this workshop was my first learning for professionals. The improvement in my photographs from the first session to the last is stunning to me and my family. I will take these lessons learns learned and build upon them from this point forward.

Tim Z.

Looking forward to joining them again soon!

My first experience with Dave and Barry was great. Everything went smoothly thanks to their organization and planning. Looking forward to joining them again soon. Tom E.

An excellent adventure!

An excellent adventure–Caddo is a beautiful place, and David and Barry are knowledgeable about the area and its inhabitants. Michael Lustbader

Detailed, Helpful & Extremely Patient

I’ve been on a couple of Benton Downs Photography workshops and I appreciate the time and attention they put into planning and executing their workshops. They are very detailed, helpful, and extremely patient with all questions and/or concerns of each workshop participant. I have already signed up for a couple more workshops.

The unique environment makes it one of a kind!

The Caddo Workshop is a perfect opportunity to build your photographic skills (or use the ones you’ve already mastered)! You are given a great variety of options for sunrises, sunsets, birds, landscapes, and much more. The backdrop of the unique environment makes it one of a kind!

They Truly Went Above and Beyond

I really appreciate how much David and Barry do to help everyone get “THE” shot that they came for. On this trip, I believe they truly went above and beyond. This was a great trip! – Marian K.

Ideal Locations!

David and Barry put together an outstanding focused workshop centered in and around the cypress swamps of Lake Caddo. Both worked closely with a small group to help showcase photographic opportunities and brought you to ideal locations at the optimal times.

Mark T.

I Learned At Least 4 Specific Things

 I’ve tried to photograph the Milky Way in the past but haven’t been happy with the results. In this workshop, I learned at least 4 specific things from David and, using what I learned, got several Milky Way shots that I’m very happy with. Thanks! – Jeff R

One of the very best!

I’ve participated in a number of photographic workshops. This was one of the very best!

Michael Griffith

Instruction and Independence!

This was a terrific workshop whether you are a beginner or a more experienced photographer. If I needed help or had a question either David or Barry was right there. If I wanted to wander off and work on my own composition, I could do that. The perfect balance of instruction and independence.

Patience & Genuine Care

David’s ability to help me with a wide range of learnings – from super basics to extensive adaptations and perspectives is so appreciated. From how to think about composition to nighttime focusing, using a tripod properly, and how to capture the shot overall. Along with the sense of community, vibe, and energy led by David,
…
David’s ability to help me with a wide range of learnings – from super basics to extensive adaptations and perspectives is so appreciated. From how to think about composition to nighttime focusing, using a tripod properly, and how to capture the shot overall. Along with the sense of community, vibe, and energy led by David, a wonderful experience was had in Big Bend. I’m very grateful for the workshop and look forward to attending more, along with catching further tutorial sessions online and in-classroom sessions. The patience and genuine care is so real by Benton Downs.

Read the rest “Patience & Genuine Care”

The best all-around!

David and Barry’s workshops are the best all-around. They provide the perfect blend of instruction, hands-on teaching, and letting you learn by doing. No overbearing lectures. No hour-long ‘demos’. Just shoot and learn. Also, both of them are really easy to get along with – and amazing photographers to boot. Their itineraries are also well
…
David and Barry’s workshops are the best all-around. They provide the perfect blend of instruction, hands-on teaching, and letting you learn by doing. No overbearing lectures. No hour-long ‘demos’. Just shoot and learn. Also, both of them are really easy to get along with – and amazing photographers to boot. Their itineraries are also well designed and maximize opportunities to photograph while balancing other activities (e.g. meals).

Read the rest “The best all-around!”

Arun K.

Never disappointed!

I have found the photography workshops with Benton and Downs to be well-planned and affordable. I have been to several workshops and have never been disappointed – Larry Golden

Loved all workshops I’ve attended

Absolutely loved all the workshops I’ve attended! David is very knowledgeable & helpful and I learned a lot about creativity, my new camera and Lightroom!

Missy J

Loved all workshops I’ve attended

Absolutely loved all the workshops I’ve attended! David is very knowledgeable & helpful and I learned a lot about creativity, my new camera and Lightroom!

Missy J

Above andAnd Beyond My Expectations

As someone who is still learning composition and seeing the shot, I can always count on David and Barry to ask me the question of what I’m trying to accomplish and help me get THAT shot! Their workshops go above and beyond my expectations.

My First Workshop

This photo workshop was my first workshop and I look forward to taking additional workshops with this team.

Norm G.

I Plan On Taking More Classes!

This was my first class with Benton Downs Photography. I learned a lot and plan to take more classes in the future.

Tree R

You Walk Away Learning So Much!

I have attended several photography workshops, including with some National names – this one is a class apart. David and Barry bring their down to earth style to the workshop and you walk away learning so much – while actually taking pictures. This is a hands-on lesson – which makes it really interesting. I would
…
I have attended several photography workshops, including with some National names – this one is a class apart. David and Barry bring their down to earth style to the workshop and you walk away learning so much – while actually taking pictures. This is a hands-on lesson – which makes it really interesting. I would absolutely do a workshop with them again.

Read the rest “You Walk Away Learning So Much!”

Arun K

Taking My Photos To Another Level!

This was a great workshop for me. I learned several things that definitely help take my photos to another level.

Marian K

The Workshops Are Ideal!

The workshops by Barry & David are ideal … they provide the perfect combination of learning, locations, and support. The value they provide is unbeatable!

DeLania T

The Most Amazing & Fun Adventure!

This workshop is the most amazing and fun adventure. It is relaxing, fun, educational under the most beautiful of circumstances. David and Barry are wonderful instructors and you will never forget the beauty of Caddo Lake. It is a must.

Melody S.

Priceless Workshop For Getting Images Into Customer’s Hands

Priceless workshop for learning everything after the image is developed to the time it gets into the customer’s hands.

Sanjay K

I would do it again!

It was well worth my time. I would do it again and plan to do more workshops that are offered.

Larry G.

Small Group Size Made This A Great Workshop!

David and Barry’s easy styles, instructional skills and small group size made this a great workshop. The personalized suggestions and the effort they took before the workshop to find truly outstanding locations was the icing on the cake. We highly recommend them…

Keith W & Peggy W

One On One Time Was Helpful. Looking Forward to Next Class!

The class content was informative with great presentation. One on one time for additional questions was helpful as well. Looking forward to the next class!

Kim P

Guidance helped me grow tremendously as a photographer

I attended one of the first classes and have not been disappointed ever since. Barry and David continue to fine-tune their instruction and offer classes that are relevant and interesting to a budding photographer. Their enthusiasm for sharing their knowledge and encouragement to me as a student is invaluable and I feel their guidance has
…
I attended one of the first classes and have not been disappointed ever since. Barry and David continue to fine-tune their instruction and offer classes that are relevant and interesting to a budding photographer. Their enthusiasm for sharing their knowledge and encouragement to me as a student is invaluable and I feel their guidance has helped me grow tremendously as a photographer.

Read the rest “Guidance helped me grow tremendously as a photographer”

Kim O

Benton Downs meets and exceeds my expectations

Benton Downs meets and exceeds my expectations by going above and beyond by adding in a zoom meeting before and after each workshop, by offering editing or critique advice during or after the workshop, and with their friendliness and caring about each participant.

My priorities for a workshop are always to see new places, especially at my age, learn something new, get feedback on my compositions in camera, get ideas for compositions or small scenes or creative ideas that I may not be seeing, meet new people, be in a small group, and offer all of that for an affordable investment. Benton Downs meets and exceeds my expectations by going above and beyond by adding in a zoom meeting before and after each workshop, by offering editing or critique advice during or after the workshop, and with their friendliness and caring about each participant. Anything else is a bonus. I would highly recommend BDW as one of the top workshop groups in the country. Thanks Barry and David!

Roberta K.

I’m Much More Confident In Manual Mode Now!

The intro class provided clear instructions on composition and settings. I have a good understanding of the impact that different settings have on my photos and am much more confident shooting in manual mode now. Thank you, David and Barry!

Cindy P

A Great Workshop For Digital & Print Media Sales

A great workshop that introduces the photographer to the many factors, considerations, options for publishing digital/print media and how to market your business!

Kevin W

Small Groups!

I’ve really enjoyed the workshops I’ve taken with Benton Downs. Both of the workshop leaders are engaged, dedicated to keeping the group small and have been exceptionally willing to share their expertise and locations.

Mark T.

Composition Was Quite Compelling

The discussion around composition was quite compelling. I am so glad I understand the meter and learned the quick buttons on my camera to accomplish what I was going through the menu to do.

Camille U

Individual Attention!

I have participated in two workshops put on by David and Barry on the subject of Night Sky Photography and I have enjoyed both immensely. They both go out of their way to provide each participant with individual attention as much as possible when needed. Looking forward to future workshops by these two professionals.

Rick O

A profound impact on my photographic journey!

I signed up for the workshop hoping I’d get a few trophy shots and learn some new skills which I certainly accomplished. What I didn’t expect was to meet a new group of friends, laugh around a campfire, and gain a deep appreciation of the unique location we visited. It’s clear that David and Barry
…
I signed up for the workshop hoping I’d get a few trophy shots and learn some new skills which I certainly accomplished. What I didn’t expect was to meet a new group of friends, laugh around a campfire, and gain a deep appreciation of the unique location we visited. It’s clear that David and Barry love to share their photographic knowledge with others in a way that’s supportive and sincere. This experience has had a profound impact on my photographic journey.

Read the rest “A profound impact on my photographic journey!”

Courtney C.

How to tell a story…

The Savannah workshop was a perfect blend of photographic opportunities. We captured the history and the spirit of Savannah through a mix of statues and sweet treats, as well as iconic sites throughout the workshop. I learned a lot about how to tell a story with your photos. Thank you!

DeLania T.

You will not find better, more helpful instructors –

You can find other, more expensive workshops, but you will not find better, more helpful instructors. No matter your skill level, you will leave this workshop with an image you can be proud of — Michael G.

Register Now for the Oct 15, 2026 - Oct 26, 2026 England/Scotland Adventure

Workshop Leaders:

David Downs

Workshop dates

October 15, 2026 - October 26, 2026

Location

London, Cotswolds, Scotland

Please carefully read the additional workshop details below:

Click an arrow to expand a section and display (or print) its info.

Location/Lodging/Meals information

Where will the workshop be based?
We will be spending nights in London, Cotswolds, Edinburgh, Glencoe, Isle of Skye. Our accommodations reflect the character and charm of each region we visit. In England and Scotland, we stay in carefully selected boutique hotels, historic manor houses, and estate-style properties that blend comfort with local authenticity. These are not chain hotels, but distinctive places that offer atmosphere, warmth, and a true sense of place — providing a refined and relaxing retreat after each day in the field.

How are meals handled? We will be having meals at local restaurants or in our hotels. Each participant is responsible for their own meals.

Physical Requirements

Exertion levels/requirements? There are no specific plans for strenuous activity, although there will be periods of walking through villages or potential for hikes to achieve the best shooting location in certain locations.

We will always moderate our pace to ensure everyone stays as comfortable as possible and NO ONE will ever be left behind. If you have mobility challenges or strenuous effort creates major physical challenges for you we would urge you to consider whether this workshop is a good fit for you. We do not want to discourage participation but we also want our participants to enjoy the experience and set realistic expectations.

Agenda

The agenda is subject to change based on weather conditions and any transportation challenges.

Day 1 – Arrival in London
Participants arrive and check into the designated central London hotel by 2:00 PM. Afternoon orientation and welcome meeting. Evening introductory shoot along the Thames at sunset.

Day 2 – London to the Cotswolds
Early morning sunrise session capturing iconic London bridges and skyline views. Midday departure for the Cotswolds. Evening countryside or village shoot in classic English landscapes.

Day 3 – Cotswolds
Sunrise in one of the region’s storybook villages. Midday exploration of additional villages and countryside lanes. Sunset along pastoral ridgelines or riverside reflections.

Day 4 – Cotswolds to Edinburgh
Morning shoot in the countryside. Transfer to London King’s Cross and train to Edinburgh. Evening sunset session overlooking Edinburgh’s historic skyline.

Day 5 – Edinburgh to Glencoe
Morning departure north into the Highlands. Scenic stops en route. Sunset in Glencoe among dramatic mountain landscapes.

Day 6 – Glencoe
Full day exploring valleys, waterfalls, lochs, and mountain vistas. Weather-responsive routing to maximize photographic opportunities.

Day 7 – Glencoe
Second full day in Glencoe for depth and flexibility. Refined compositions, atmospheric conditions, and alternate locations.

Day 8 – Glencoe to Isle of Skye
Morning Highlands session. Transfer to the Isle of Skye with scenic stops along the way. Evening coastal or mountain shoot.

Day 9 – Isle of Skye
Sunrise at one of Skye’s iconic landscapes. Midday exploration of geological formations and coastline. Sunset at a dramatic coastal location.

Day 10 – Skye to Torridon
Morning shoot on Skye. Travel to the Torridon region of Wester Ross. Evening reflections and remote Highland landscapes.

Day 11 – Highlands to London Heathrow
Optional morning Highlands session. Transfer south to connect with return travel to London. Evening stay at Heathrow airport hotel and informal closing dinner.

Day 12 – Departure
Participants depart London Heathrow at their scheduled times.

Transportation

Transfer options for participants from Heathrow to central London hotel will be forwarded close to workshop date. Transfers from the final night hotel at Heathrow Airport are provided by shuttle services as needed by participants.

Private van service will fulfill ground transportation needs in the Cotswolds and Scotland.

Recommended photography gear

DSLR or Mirrorless Camera (Full frame or Crop Sensor) with a wide-angle/large aperture (f2.8) lens, an intermediate zoom (24mm-70mm) lens (f4 is sufficient), and a telephoto 200mm-300mm
A sturdy, lightweight tripod with a ball head and level indicator.
A remote shutter trigger or shutter delay option.
An extra battery, charger and extra memory cards.
A Circular Polarizer Filter.
Neutral Density Filters.
Weather protection gear for camerabag, cameras and lenses. 

Other recommendations

Only paid participants may participate in this workshop.

Daytime temps in Londonj/Cotswolds will likely get into the mid to high 50's and in Scotland mid to upper 40's. Rain is a very common occurrence in Scotland this time of year and appropraite gear should be worn.

We will have at least one pre workshop Zoom call prior to the workshop to bring everyone up to date on any changes to itinerary and discuss what to expect during the trip. After the workshop we will schedule an editing session based on the images captured during the workshop as a guide for editing your own images.

Reserve your spot

Important info! We encourage you to create an account when you register so future workshop forms will be prepopulated with your data. Shortly after registering you will receive a confirmation e-mail and a separate email allowing you to pay your registration online. You are not fully registered until your payment is received.

The price for this workshop is $6,950. Shared accommodations are available for $5,950, subject to the terms in the paragraph below. A $1,500 deposit holds your seat. A second payment of $2,500 will be due May 1, 2026, and the final balance is due August 15, 2026. Registrations after May 1st require a $4,000 deposit with the balance due August 15, 2026.

Shared accommodations are available only to two participants who register together at the time of booking; we do not assign roommates. Each participant is responsible for their own payments, and if one person in a shared reservation cancels, the remaining participant may either pay the difference to convert to single occupancy or withdraw according to the cancellation policy. Due to the character and layout of historic and rural properties included in this workshop, room sizes and bedding configurations may vary.

All payments are subject to our regular cancellation policy.

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