A weekend retreat of photography, presence, and connection with the landscape
Join photographer Fiona Caley on the 20th to the 22nd August for a relaxed and contemplative weekend. Together, we’ll explore mindful photography.
Set within the beautiful surroundings of Rydal Hall, this retreat invites you to slow down and become more present. Along the way, you’ll discover new ways of seeing through photography. Whether you use a mobile phone or a digital camera, the emphasis is on observation, connection, and personal response rather than technical perfection.
We’ll begin with a warm, informal welcome and introduction to the weekend.
Through sharing images, conversation, and moments of quiet reflection, we’ll explore different photographic styles. In this way, we’ll begin to settle into the pace and atmosphere of the retreat. There will also be an opportunity for an informal Q&A and to get to know the other participants.
Please feel free to bring along a favourite photograph or meaningful object to share with the group. For example, it might be something that has personal significance or inspires you.
Saturday begins with an introduction to the cameras participants have brought along. There will be some simple, practical tips for anyone wanting to get more from their mobile phone or digital camera.
We’ll then head outdoors into the grounds of Rydal Hall for our first photographic exercise. First, we’ll ground ourselves in the landscape through silence, mindful poetry, imagery, or quiet reflection. This creates space to become more attentive to our surroundings.
From there, you’ll have time to explore and photograph the landscape, either independently or as part of a guided group session.
You can also use optional notebooks throughout the retreat. They are a way of recording thoughts, observations, and reflections alongside your photographs.
Later in the day, we’ll come together to reflect on our experiences and look at some of the images we have created.
On the weekend retreat, each participant can also select one photograph. We will print and frame it for you to take home. The images will be prepared for the final group session, where we’ll share and discuss them together.
This creates a personal record of the weekend and a chance to reflect on how each person has responded to the landscape in their own way.
This is a friendly and informal retreat suitable for photographers of different experience levels. You don’t need specialist equipment or extensive technical knowledge. Instead, simply bring a camera or mobile phone, an openness to explore and a willingness to look at the landscape in a different way.
The weekend is about being present, noticing more and finding your own photographic response to the world around you.
Weekend retreat: Friday evening arrival, Saturday and Sunday sessions.
Cost: from £390
To book email: mail@rydalhall.org or call 015394 32050
Our property is a Grade II listed building, and due to its historic nature, some areas may present accessibility challenges. If you have mobility difficulties or any specific accessibility requirements and are considering staying with us, we kindly ask that you contact us by telephone before booking. We will be happy to discuss your needs and help you determine whether our accommodation is suitable for your stay.
You can also read our full accessibility statement.