Andy Davies Photography & Video - Skomer Island Photography Workshop
Andy Davies Photography & Video - Skomer Island Photography Workshop
Andy Davies Photography & Video - Skomer Island Photography Workshop
5
About
Join Andy Davies for an unforgettable day on Skomer Island learning how to use your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and rich wildlife. Andy provides hands-on expert tuition to small groups, catering for all skill levels. Workshop participants have pre-booked places on the first crossing of the day and we return on the last boat giving us as much time as possible on the island.
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5.0
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David Y
Bristol, UK147 contributions
Jul 2017 • Couples
My daughter and I are both interested in photography, and we visited Skomer 30 years ago when Annie was 16. The photography course seemed an ideal way to revisit an island that had memories for us, and to develop our photography skills at the same time. Andy Davies sent us some preparatory work which had us reading our camera manuals before wes set out. We were lucky to get good weather, so were met at Martin's Haven by Andy, who had already purchased our tickets, and from there we crossed to Skomer for a day of teaching and practical photography.
Our initial talk was a technical explanation of the way a camera works, and the way to get the best pictures out of Digital cameras. Andy gave individual help to those who needed it, as we were a disperate group with a range of experiences. After some trial shooting, we had another teach in on the psychology of picture design, and the elements of making an interesting picture. After a picnic lunch, we spent a happy afternoon photographing Puffins, Choughs, Rabbits and landscape scenes, before catching the last boat home, tired, but happy, and carring cameras with several hundred images to work on over the coming days. It was a lovely day out and we had first class teaching from an enthusiastic wild life photographer, who gave each of us quality time. It is a long way from Bristol to Skomer, but worth the journey!
Our initial talk was a technical explanation of the way a camera works, and the way to get the best pictures out of Digital cameras. Andy gave individual help to those who needed it, as we were a disperate group with a range of experiences. After some trial shooting, we had another teach in on the psychology of picture design, and the elements of making an interesting picture. After a picnic lunch, we spent a happy afternoon photographing Puffins, Choughs, Rabbits and landscape scenes, before catching the last boat home, tired, but happy, and carring cameras with several hundred images to work on over the coming days. It was a lovely day out and we had first class teaching from an enthusiastic wild life photographer, who gave each of us quality time. It is a long way from Bristol to Skomer, but worth the journey!
Written 4 July 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Many thanks for your comprehensive review. Best wishes, Andy.
Written 6 July 2017
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
DarrenWhiteley
2 contributions
Jul 2014 • Solo
I have had a wish to photograph puffins for many years and despite twice living within throwing distance of the Farne Islands I never got around to doing it. Thankfully I have a wife who listens to my constant moaning and demands and for my birthday Lesley booked me the Skomer Island workshop with Andy. After a quick look around Andy's excellent website, including watching The Guardian video covering one of his workshops, I began the process of booking a date which Andy made easy and hassle free. Andy would later comment that I choose the premier puffin location in the UK and after my day I wouldn't argue with him!
I've done a number of animal workshops previously but these have always been in benign and controlled environments, namely zoos or wildlife parks. Here you are pretty much guaranteed to get 'killer' shots but you have to deal with distracting backgrounds and environments which are not exactly natural to the animal - it is also not the most challenging or rewarding photo experience. Nevertheless if you are reading this you are probably wanting to know 'Am I going to get shots that I will cherish and be proud to share?' The answer to that is an overwhelming yes but you will do so in a natural environment which adds to the impact and for me personally gave me a greater pride in what I had achieved.
I was lucky enough to begin my workshop early as I bumped in to Andy on the way down to Martins Haven beach. From the off Andy was welcoming, friendly and clearly knowledgable about his art. I observed him capture video footage on some swallows and his passion for nature and photography shone through. Once we had all arrived and after a short 10 minute boat ride to Skomer Island, again all arranged by Andy and meaning you get to the island ahead of 'Joe Public', we made our way to a glorious natural amphitheatre to begin our first theory lesson. The setting was wonderful and it was hard to not snap away at the landscape especially as I consider myself an experienced photographer who understands the basics (aperture, speed, ISO etc) very well. My experience of previous workshops is that the tutor basically gives you his preferred settings with little explanation of why or labours on the mundane for too long. In contrast Andy's style is both compelling and challenges the way you think about your photography; it was a refreshing and welcome change and is delivered in a way such that any photographer from beginner to experienced snapper will learn something or in my case a great deal.
After the first lesson we headed over to the puffins. On arrival you will take a momentary pause as you take in the scene before you - puffins appear to be everywhere, gulls harassing them as they attempt to make it back to their burrows with a mouth full of sand eels often crossing in front of you by inches, waves crashing against the rocks and a beautiful landscape as a backdrop. My advice is to not panic, take your time, get some shots in the bag (this is easy) and then think about the advice Andy gave you and start putting it in to practice in order to get the shots you truly hoped you would capture. If you are at any stage unsure, look for Andy, he'll be wearing his bandana and probably on your shoulder anyway, and ask him advice - the response will be clear and helpful. During our lunch break Andy conducted another theoretical session on composition prior to helping us set up for the 'puffins in flight' session. Warning! These little birds are quick (in excess on 60km per hour) but if you heed Andy's advice and maintain your patience you may well be blessed with the back lit shot of a puffin with a mouth full of eels in flight. I even managed it despite being unable to adopt to Andy's preferred left eye to viewfinder approach!
Overall this was a wonderful and fulfilling experience. I have a number of shots to cherish, an experience I will never forget and an new way of thinking about how I approach my photography - this is more than I hoped to gain at the outset. I would highly recommend this to anyone who has ever wanted to photograph puffins in the wild.
Andy, thank you.
I've done a number of animal workshops previously but these have always been in benign and controlled environments, namely zoos or wildlife parks. Here you are pretty much guaranteed to get 'killer' shots but you have to deal with distracting backgrounds and environments which are not exactly natural to the animal - it is also not the most challenging or rewarding photo experience. Nevertheless if you are reading this you are probably wanting to know 'Am I going to get shots that I will cherish and be proud to share?' The answer to that is an overwhelming yes but you will do so in a natural environment which adds to the impact and for me personally gave me a greater pride in what I had achieved.
I was lucky enough to begin my workshop early as I bumped in to Andy on the way down to Martins Haven beach. From the off Andy was welcoming, friendly and clearly knowledgable about his art. I observed him capture video footage on some swallows and his passion for nature and photography shone through. Once we had all arrived and after a short 10 minute boat ride to Skomer Island, again all arranged by Andy and meaning you get to the island ahead of 'Joe Public', we made our way to a glorious natural amphitheatre to begin our first theory lesson. The setting was wonderful and it was hard to not snap away at the landscape especially as I consider myself an experienced photographer who understands the basics (aperture, speed, ISO etc) very well. My experience of previous workshops is that the tutor basically gives you his preferred settings with little explanation of why or labours on the mundane for too long. In contrast Andy's style is both compelling and challenges the way you think about your photography; it was a refreshing and welcome change and is delivered in a way such that any photographer from beginner to experienced snapper will learn something or in my case a great deal.
After the first lesson we headed over to the puffins. On arrival you will take a momentary pause as you take in the scene before you - puffins appear to be everywhere, gulls harassing them as they attempt to make it back to their burrows with a mouth full of sand eels often crossing in front of you by inches, waves crashing against the rocks and a beautiful landscape as a backdrop. My advice is to not panic, take your time, get some shots in the bag (this is easy) and then think about the advice Andy gave you and start putting it in to practice in order to get the shots you truly hoped you would capture. If you are at any stage unsure, look for Andy, he'll be wearing his bandana and probably on your shoulder anyway, and ask him advice - the response will be clear and helpful. During our lunch break Andy conducted another theoretical session on composition prior to helping us set up for the 'puffins in flight' session. Warning! These little birds are quick (in excess on 60km per hour) but if you heed Andy's advice and maintain your patience you may well be blessed with the back lit shot of a puffin with a mouth full of eels in flight. I even managed it despite being unable to adopt to Andy's preferred left eye to viewfinder approach!
Overall this was a wonderful and fulfilling experience. I have a number of shots to cherish, an experience I will never forget and an new way of thinking about how I approach my photography - this is more than I hoped to gain at the outset. I would highly recommend this to anyone who has ever wanted to photograph puffins in the wild.
Andy, thank you.
Written 11 July 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Many thanks - it was a great group!
Written 18 July 2014
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sandy M
Cardigan, UK17 contributions
Mar 2016 • Solo
I had a really good time with Andy and only wish we could have stayed longer, he had a easy and natural way of teaching as well as a great knowledge of the area.
Written 12 August 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alice S
Dublin, Ireland9 contributions
Jul 2015 • Solo
This was my first experience with Andy and with the beautiful Skomer island. Andy's knowledge of the island and of the subjects really made a difference as it allowed me to try and anticipate the puffin’s behaviour. The technical session at the start was a useful recap to ensure we could all make the best of our cameras. Great tips and analysis of the photos taken on a real time basis to ensure that the best pictures are taken on the day.
Written 22 July 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Glad to hear you enjoyed the day. Looking forward to meeting you again. Best wishes, Andy
Written 24 July 2015
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
AndyLamnea
Llanelli, UK30 contributions
May 2014 • Friends
I have been on 2 trips to Skomer with Andy. He is an incredibly talented photographer. During the day out he ensures that everyone is made to feel part of the group, no matter what experience level they are. His knowledge of photography is exceptional, and he will explain everything in easy to understand terms. It does not matter what type of camera you have, he can show you how to get the best out of it. Being able to photograph wildlife is a skill that anyone can learn, Andy has a talent of bringing the best out his students in a short time. The day out on Skomer starts early and does involve some steep paths and a fair bit of walking, but as you take in the scenery and the wildlife, the steps fade into the distance. Andy's knowledge of the wildlife on the Island is superb, and he gives a running commentary as such as you move across the island, it really helps make the day special. I highly recommend this trip to anyone with an interest in photography and wildlife, you will not regret it.
Written 25 April 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AlisonL74
Aylesbury, UK3 contributions
May 2014 • Solo
I had a brilliant day on Skomer with Andy and the other guys on the workshop. Skomer itself is a wonderful location and the puffins an excellent subject. However, Andy went one better than some workshops by not only explaining camera settings that can be used, but also why this is. I found what he had to say extremely helpful both for the day and for the future. I would not hesitate to recommend this workshop, which is very reasonably priced, to anyone whether just starting in photography or an experienced amateur.
Written 23 May 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I was so glad that everyone had a great day out. It is really a privilege to show participants how to capture great shots of the island.
Written 24 May 2014
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Murphybelle
Gloucester, UK2 contributions
May 2014 • Solo
Andy is very knowledgeable, friendly and patient. His tuition is excellent and he caters for both novices and the more experienced photographer. The location is wonderful, unspoiled and natural. I certainly recommend booking a workshop with Andy it is excellent value for money. Andy also knows all about the wildlife and is happy to answer questions on this subject as well.
Written 10 May 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
tjohnd
Rochester, UK55 contributions
Oct 2013 • Friends
As it was October and effectively out of season for the puffin and shearwater it looked like there was only going to be two of us on this trip. Andy was very accommodating and we arranged to meet him with a view to staying on the mainland and to look for seals and wildlife (of which there is plenty).
As it happened, the ferry to Skomer was running a couple of trips that day and we managed to get on one of these, which was fortunate as the weather for the next day onwards was going to be too rough to cross.
So we landed on Skomer having seen some seals and bird life on the way in. Andy was aware that my wife's family once lived on the island so he balanced our time on the island between teaching us how to properly use the functions of our cameras, taking shots of the stunning scenery and having time to take a look at the farmhouse and take in the atmosphere of the island where the ancestors lived.
The boat took us back to the mainland all too quickly and we still had time to go round the marvelous coastline and take photos of seals and their pups, some fine fungi and the delightful Chough.
All in all a great day and we will be back in 2014.
In essence, if you want to know how to use your camera better and come away from the day with some cracking photos, then book a session with Andy.
As it happened, the ferry to Skomer was running a couple of trips that day and we managed to get on one of these, which was fortunate as the weather for the next day onwards was going to be too rough to cross.
So we landed on Skomer having seen some seals and bird life on the way in. Andy was aware that my wife's family once lived on the island so he balanced our time on the island between teaching us how to properly use the functions of our cameras, taking shots of the stunning scenery and having time to take a look at the farmhouse and take in the atmosphere of the island where the ancestors lived.
The boat took us back to the mainland all too quickly and we still had time to go round the marvelous coastline and take photos of seals and their pups, some fine fungi and the delightful Chough.
All in all a great day and we will be back in 2014.
In essence, if you want to know how to use your camera better and come away from the day with some cracking photos, then book a session with Andy.
Written 2 February 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kitty C
Perkins, OK2 contributions
Jun 2013 • Couples
My husband had been planning with Andy Davies for months for our trip from the United States to Skomer Island. His help and kindness to us was a wonderful addition to our visit to Wales, which we had never been before. Having a professional photographer guide you is a huge bonus to coming home with some beautiful pictures from Skomer Island. In fact, when we return to Wales, we are contacting Andy again to help us find other areas to photograph in his beautiful country. We highly recommend Andy Davies to guide you and help you to improve on your photography, not only on Skomer Island but for anything you photograph from now on, as he is a wonderful teacher that explains things extremely well.
Written 29 December 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mick
1 contribution
Jul 2019 • Solo
Thanks to Andy we had a fantastic evening on board the Dale Princess (thanks also to Skipper Derek ) when we circumnavigated Skomer Island and beyond. We had close encounters with many species of the Island's seabirds as they swam around our boat which had cut its engine and waited offshore from the cliffs. Andy's ' local knowledge' commentary and wild life knowledge was excellent as were his tips on taking photographs. The finale was the sight of thousands of Manx Shearwaters rafting on the sea and flying past on their way back to the burrow homes on the Pembrokeshire Islands. A wonderful Welsh experience.
Written 2 August 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
gillianbourchier
Monmouth, United Kingdom
Andy, I've heard so much about your wonderful days BUT is there much walking involved? One of my legs seems to be on strike these days. Or maybe there's a bench you could park me on and collect later in the day................. Jill Bourchier
Written 8 October 2017
Hi Jill
No walking at all now as the group instruction part is done on the land and we then spend the "golden hours" on the Dale Princess from 7pm to 10pm.
Sorry for the very late reply - I only found your message today!
Written 28 June 2019
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