Beginning in Central Otago with our Light & Composition Masterclass workshop, we’ll explore the unique landscapes of the Maniototo area, an elevated inland region renowned for its plains, big skies, diverse light and untamed beauty – the inspiration for many of Grahame Sydney’s masterpieces. We’ll master the art of shooting different kinds of light and perspective immersed in the perfect locations for working with light, perspective and composition.
We will then experience some of New Zealand’s iconic mountain landscapes, based in Twizel, you will get to shoot a diverse range of landscapes including; rugged mountains, lakes, rivers as explore some of New Zealand’s most epic landscapes including the mighty mountains of Aoraki/Mount Cook.
Tour starts – Queenstown
26th September 2025
We will explore the beautiful Central Otago landscapes and some of the forgotten areas of the Maniototo, from rugged mountains to lakes & rolling farmland. From views over the Hawkdun Ranges, the iconic Wedderburn Railway Station, the historic Hayes Engineering Works and homestead. Sunsets will see us venturing further afield to explore the beautiful Poolburn area and the majestic St Bathans to explore these unique landscapes.
We’ll explore and capture the serene beauty of Wanaka – a picturesque mountain town. Wanaka is a photographer’s paradise famed for its dramatic surrounding mountain ranges, stunning lake reflections and iconic lone tree.
We’ll explore Twizel and the Mackenzie Country’s surrounding mountains and lakes. We will stay in Twizel for two nights as it’s the perfect base from which to take advantage of the spectacular surrounding locations of Aoraki National Park and the remote Mackenzie Country, which offer some amazing photography opportunities. We will venture deep within the mountains at Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park to visit locations including alpine lakes, sweeping river vistas, and views of New Zealand’s highest peaks.
Ken Wright’s seascapes speak for themselves, outstanding moments in time that capture sunrise and sunset. With 40 years experience in creative industries, Ken is highly skilled in design, illustration and photography.
Glen has worked as a travel, documentary, and landscape photographer for over 30 years. As an educator at Massey University, The Photo School, and through photography workshops, he’s passionate about helping others discover and develop their own connection to photography.
Accommodation Type: This tour uses comfortable lodge accommodation and mainly 4 star hotels.
Sole Occupancy/Twin Room: Please select sole occupancy or twin share room when booking.
Food: The price tour includes breakfast each morning, this is normally at the hotel but sometimes a local cafe. Lunch and dinner (apart from any listed as being included) are at your own expense. We will stop at a cafe/shop for lunch and book a table for the group for dinner each day at a local restaurant. Sometimes evening meal times might be early/late to fit around the time of sunset. New Zealand has great food and caters well for any preferences like allergies, vegetarian etc. For the Milford Overnight Cruise, dinner is included.
A 15% deposit is required to reserve your space (deposit is non-refundable). The remaining balance is due 90 days prior to the start of the workshop.
Booking and Cancellation Policy: Please click here for our booking and cancellation policy.
This tour runs with a maximum group size of 8 and 2 tutors, offering 1:4 ratio of tutors to guests. Limiting group sizes ensure we provide you with expert guidance, instruction, and personal attention according to your learning style. Smaller groups of up to 4 may only be led by one tutor.
Camera Equipment: Our tours focus on how to use your camera, not your type of camera. A basic list of recommended camera equipment can be found here
Clothing: A list of recommended clothing to bring on the tour can be found here
A minimum level of physical activity is necessary to enjoy this tour. A lot of locations we shoot require a short walk (10-20mins one way) along the forest tracks or the coastline. These are sometimes uphill, over uneven ground, or rocky beaches and you will be carrying your own equipment. On this tour, there may be a couple of longer walk options (30-45 min one way) but if these are difficult for the group, we do have the option to split the group at these locations. If your fitness or mobility is an issue please let us know.