Three mini breaks have been organised, the weekend of (Feb 19 - 21), midweek (March 23 - 25), and a second weekend  (April 16 - 18).

The photography sessions will vary depending on the skill level of the participants, the weather and what is going on in the area - your pictures may be of  architecture, still life, wildlife, flowers and hedgerows,  festivals and markets or landscapes and coastal views. 

Norman Dodds was born and raised in the Scottish Borders. He is based in Kelso and runs Fotoscope, a small company which offers a wide range of digital photography services as well as website design. Most of Norman's working life has been spent as a primary school teacher and headteacher but he left the teaching profession recently to devote his energies to photography which has been a lifelong passion. He favours natural subjects but is also widely travelled and his portfolio includes a wide variety of images from many parts of the world. (see his website www.fotoscope.co.uk for more info)

The groups will be a maximum of 8 to ensure that you get the best attention of our photographic guide. Not only will you have a good photographic learning experience, you will also see the fabulous Scottish Borders scenery. Our aim is to ensure that you have a relaxing experience with lots of good food and all the comforts of home.

Your photography break starts at 4pm on  the first day with afternoon tea. You then have a couple of hours to settle in to your accommodation or take a stroll around the twin villages of Kirk and Town Yetholm.

Dinner with your fellow photographers and Norman follows a short introduction session on the area,   what you are likely to see, and brief outline of the weekend.

Day 2 starts with a hearty Farmhouse breakfast. Followed by an introductory presentation covering some of the basics - composition, exposure, light, subject and then a practical session to set up the camera. After coffee your first photoshoot!

Lunch may be at The Farmhouse or may be a picnic lunch depending on the weather and photographic subject matter for the day.

Returning late afternoon to The Farmhouse, you may decide to rest or relax in our hot tub before dinner.

Day 3 will start with a question and answer session, followed by another photoshoot, returning for lunch and a wrap up session in the afternoon. This session will consist of a presentation and discussion on digital processing, the end results (prints, posters, photobooks, cards, slideshows, websites), and online processors. It is also the time when photos and experiences can be shared.

Guests depart at about 4pm after tea.

All meals are provided in our dining room , our "restaurant at home",  from afternoon tea and then dinner on Day 1  through to afternoon tea on the day of departure.

Accommodation is in double or twin bedded rooms. Depending on the weather and the photographic subjects you may need to drive (or be driven) to locations around the Borders.

Don't forget your camera and photographic equipment and your warm and waterproof clothes in case of inclement weather (it is Scotland!)

Prices are per person (£240), however 2 people sharing a twin or double room receive a 25% discount.