Winter in Slovenia, 6-day Photography Tour

Some of the most powerful images of Slovenia can be taken in winter.

Our base for this 6-day winter photography adventure will be Lake Bled and the Triglav National Park. This usually stunning area becomes even more magical and striking with its snowy mountain peaks, turquoise rivers, frozen waterfalls and glacial lakes, all of which we will capture. At this time of year, the light is good all day; sunrises come later and sunsets earlier so we aim to capture both every day. One of the exciting aspects of this workshop is the challenge posed by the weather, which can be changeable and means that we could be photographing in bright, clear conditions or battling snow blizzards. We’ll focus on camera manipulation adapted to winter conditions and will keep a flexible itinerary to capture the best the weather brings us. You will be able to try your hand at creative compositions using tripods and long exposure techniques. If the skies are clear we’ll also try some star trail photography from a mountain plateau. During the winter evenings we’ll retreat to our warm and comfortable accommodation to review our shoot and discuss post processing.

Photography experience & equipment

This workshop focuses on outdoor photography in the Slovenian Alps and you should be prepared for lots of walking, often with moderate elevation changes. You should therefore have a good level of fitness and come with clothes and footwear suitable for the environment. All levels of photographer, from beginner to pro, are welcome.

You will need a tripod and a polarizing filter to make the most of the techniques we’ll incorporate. A cable release and a macro lens are desirable but not essential. Don’t forget plenty of spare batteries as they drain faster in colder conditions.

Weather and what to bring

January and February are usually the coldest months in Slovenia and Julian Alps. This is the reason the workshop dates are chosen as they are. We can expect snow in the valleys, frozen lakes if temperatures are low for a longer period or wonderful mists in the mornings if lakes do not freeze. Even if there is no snowfall, the morning frost on the ground and trees can make stunning scenery.

We can always drive to higher altitudes to capture winter there if valleys are dry of snow. Temperatures can easily be 15C below freezing in the mornings and during the day can be around freezing. You should bring warm and waterproof boots, that go above your ankles, big enough for two layers of socks, warm gloves or mittens, warm layers (layers are preferred to one heavy winter coat), warm cap and handwarmers if you are coldblooded, also mini crampons or yaktrax (can be bought in Slovenia) are recommended.

Included in the Photography Tour:

Accommodation (5 nights) double/twin rooms sharing (singles available upon request), two meals per day (breakfast and lunch/dinner), airport transfers and all transportation during the tour, photography tuition, most entrance fees and all local taxes.

Additional notes:

• Wireless internet is available at your accommodation
• There are many optional activities available. Most popular are hot air balloon flights and panoramic flights over the Alps.
• Let us know if you would like to arrive early or you want to extend your stay.
• This workshop involves moderate walking on hiking trails. There may be a limited amount of uphill walking. Sturdy hiking boots are advised.

Slow Tours offers a number of other Tours in Slovenia

Read More