TESTIMONIALS
On this page you will find testimonials from my workshop participants who have been so kind to write some words about attending one of my workshops:
Marc. Norfolk Coast and Countryside Tour.
I flew into Norwich on a grey and wet day. The 4 day Norfolk 2024 workshop I booked with Jon was to go ahead the next day. I was curious as I had not been back to the UK since 2002 and as I used to spend many vacations as a youngster in Gorleston and Great Yarmouth I was looking forward to seeing Norfolk again and being able to take exposures of the landscape. The house Jon rented for the 4 days was perfect, enough room for all of us (with Jon we were a group of 5) and enough space to retreat and relax. The next days were great with pretty good weather and only on 2 occasions did we have rain, but that did not deter us. We were up 3 out of the 4 days around 6am to make sure we could capture the sunrise light. Jon showed us great locations and was always concerned about making sure we had all the opportunities to get and take photographs. He was also very caring and asking many times whether we were OK with the locations and whether we needed help. I was glad e.g. that he had his tripod with him, as mine turned out to be too flimsy for Norfolk coastal weather. All in all the 4 days were certainly worth it flying in from Germany and I can only recommend attending his workshops. He leaves you enough space to check out what you want to photograph and is always there to assist with help and advice about compositions and camera settings whenever you might need it. Jon has an in-depth photography knowledge and he knows the Norfolk area like nobody else.I will remember these 4 days of great photography, great laughs, discussions and good food. With Jon's mentoring skills and good humour I felt very muchmuch back home. Something certainly I hope I can repeat on another one of Jon's workshops.
John. Assynt workshop.
Iconic "island" mountains, breathtaking coastline, beaches that would do justice to the Caribbean, mighty rivers, waterfalls and lochs, ....Assynt is Scotlands hidden and most stunning gem, a Landscape Photographers paradise tucked away in the northwest of the Highlands. But to truly appreciate this awe-inspiring and unique landscape, it takes a guide with years of local experience, a guide with a "photographers" eye, a guide who cut his teeth winning the much coveted LPOY award. The 5 star luxury accommodation is the 'cherry on top,'.....unmissable for any aspiring landscape photographer.
.Steve. Isle of Skye Workshop.
"I had an absolutely fantastic week in Skye with Jon. He's a great workshop leader, friendly, encouraging and supportive and really knowledgeable, both on the technical and the local area (we went to a number of spots you wouldn't see on a typical tour). I gained a lot more confidence in my photography over the course of the week, in large part because of Jon's tuition. I got a couple images that I'm really proud of and a whole lot more that I'm very satisfied with. I enjoyed it so much that I've just booked for another trip next year, this time to Assynt!"
.Nigel. Isle of Skye workshop.
Thanks again for giving us such a great experience during our week on Skye. Great hospitality, providing a lovely friendly, relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, and your expertise and knowledge of the island enabling us to make the most of our time there regardless of what the weather threw at us - and it threw quite a lot at us :). I was particularly impressed with how you judged just the right amount of attention to give to each of us whilst out in the field. Now going through my images and enjoying reliving it all.
I'll definitely be recommending you to others, and hope to join you again in the future.
Phil. Norfolk Broads and Coast workshop.
I picked the Norfolk Broads as it seemed different from the “usual suspects” for a photography workshop. Jon’s relaxed manner puts people at ease and his enthusiasm for his local area is infectious. Jon kept the numbers small, which gave plenty of time for individual advice, and he adjusted the pace of the workshop to suit as we went along. However, be prepared for an early start each day - the reward for which was some great shots through the dawn mist. Finally, Jon’s knowledge of the area extends to some great pubs for an evening meal!
David. Norfolk Broads and Coast workshop.
Here is a small portfolio of work David had published in On landscape online magazine which were taken on the workshop.
Norfolk Broads images
Colin. Aspect 2i Skye workshop.
I've been back a week now from my trip with Jon to Skye. I'd like to say how much I enjoyed the trip, especially Jon's enthusiasm, knowledge and even ability to deliver decent weather!
Before the trip I had been struggling with 'seeing' the possible compositions in front of me and turning them into 'wow' images. Jon definitely helped me do this and I have got a set of very satisfying images with even a possible wow or two.
Philip. Aspect 2i Skye workshop.
Thanks for the workshop on Skye. As a seasoned pro photographer it’s always a delight for me to discover that there are still things to learn - in fact important things - and you helped me to discover a lot that’s important. Your enthusiasm and attention to the various needs of the group was brilliant. You pushed us to create images that we wouldn’t otherwise make- and opened doors. Sincere thanks.
Peter. Aspect 2i Skye workshop.
Quote from email sent to me:
Thank you again for a most enjoyable week. I’m sure that all concerned thought it a great success and certainly it is an experience which I shall look back on with pleasure.
I shall aim to produce a photo book within the next few weeks and will provide a link in the hope that others will be interested to view my efforts. As you can imagine, I’m quite keen to get going on the computer - and will try not to be too heavy handed with the ‘dehaze’ control!
If I can afford it I do hope that I get to see you on another workshop in the not too distant future.
Tim. Assynt workshop.
My advice is simple – if you ever get the chance to go on a workshop with Jon, grab it!
I had an incredibly enjoyable week with him in Assynt. Jon has a deep knowledge of this part of the world and we covered a range of stunning locations including some real hidden gems, making the very best of each day’s conditions and opportunities. His small group approach really pays dividends – a nice tight party to travel and work with and Jon devoting lots of time to each individual. I found him an exceptionally supportive and skilled tutor, extremely helpful on the technical side but importantly he also has the gift of understanding the sort of help different folk need, intervening when needed but understanding how to give space and support and to encourage individual ideas. The week really pushed my own photography along, no doubt about that. Jon’s also an absolute diamond, nothing too much trouble, generous of spirit and just a great guy to have as a workshop leader. I can’t recommend his workshops highly enough.
David.Aspect 2i North Norfolk workshop.
On this 3-day workshop on the north Norfolk coast, our small group experienced the worst (or so it seemed at the time) of conditions for a workshop, with unseasonal cold and fog on every day but Jon ensured that we didn’t lack for subjects, even taking us inland to Felbrigg Hall in the search for some different ones. Jon was a very patient and supportive teacher, taking time with each of us and never making us feel rushed, and his advice on subjects and composition was very helpful at the time and will be in my future photography. Recommended.
Frank. Sutherland ASspect 2i workshop.
I attended this workshop which was led by Jon Gibbs. We could not have asked for a better leader. Jon personally collected me from and returned me to Inverness airport which was nearly three hours away from our hotel. Throughout the workshop he was indefatigable and very enthusiastic even in the face of often very adverse weather. Jon is a pro photographer and he was always ready to give advice and support during the shoots. I will happily book a place on any other workshop to be led by him.
Ian. Sutherland Aspect 2i workshop.
This was my first photography workshop, as a result I was unsure of what to expect, but Jon’s relaxed manner helped me to settle in. Jon’s knowledge of Sutherland took the group to locations that we might not have found on our own and his enthusiasm for and knowledge of photography was obvious, giving helpful advice when needed, but leaving myself to make my own decisions and develop during the week.
I would recommend any workshop led by Jon
Peter and David. Assynt/Sutherland Workshop.
"We recently returned from Scotland following an excellent workshop with Jon and fellow photographers.
Jon’s knowledge of the area is extensive, including names of (most) of the well known and not so well known mountains etc.
The base used for this workshop is idyllic and perfect in every way and contributed to the success of the trip.
The most noticeable thing about Jon is that his main aim is for his clients to get the most out of the workshop, ensuring that everyone receives the help/guidance that they might need and the small groups he leads ensure that this aim is met in a very quiet and personable way.
One of the most enjoyable workshops I have been on and would definitely recommend any of Jon’s workshops with no hesitation."
Pete. Lake District workshop with Jon Gibbs and Mark Littlejohn.
"Really enjoyed both yourself and Mark’s company and guidance. An enjoyable week of good company, beer and cakes. Oh and photography!"
Mick. Lake District workshop with Jon Gibbs and Mark Littlejohn.
"This was a dual led workshop by Jon Gibbs and Mark Littlejohn in an area of outstanding beauty. Mark took care of the locations and Jon and Mark handled the technical aspects. Not being the right age for hill climbing Jon was happy to stay with me at the lower levels but after a little encouragement and some help with carrying my kit I stayed with the group allowing Jon and Mark to offer help to all of us.
This was an excellent workshop led by two outstanding photographers and helped by a wonderful group."
Mark. One to one workshop.
“Jon was a fantastic photography coach. His knowledge, experience, critical eye and incredible landscape photography knowledge were perfectly pitched to help me learn and progress my own knowledge. His geographic knowledge of North Norfolk helped us get off the tourist routes and attend locations that were breathtaking and a pleasure to photograph. Jon is extremely personable and I loved the whole day”
Chris. One to one workshop.
“Just back from a full day’s wandering along the North Norfolk coast with Jon. What an excellent day! I have learnt so much about my camera and had my imagination inspired by the wide variety of photography we explored, not just landscapes but seeing the potential in the things we can find lying around us. We didn’t have the best day, light-wise, but Jon managed to keep me interested and attentive for the whole day and I went home feeling inspired and looking forward to next weekend when I can get out there with my camera again. Jon’s workshop gets a ten out of ten from me both for content and value for money”
Carol. Lake District workshop with Jon Gibbs and Mark Littlejohn.
"This was the first residential landscape photography course I've ever done, with Mark Littlejohn and Jon Gibbs, and I found it both informative and inspirational. Mark knows the area around Penrith like the back of his hand and was able to take us to location after stunning location, depending on the weather and the light etc. Both Mark and Jon took an interest in each of us in the group and understood quickly our abilities and what we were trying to achieve. I learned so much not only about composition, technical stuff, but also mainly a sincere and heartfelt approach to photography that will remain with me. Four days of indulgence in photography in some of the most beautiful places in the world, with a great group, and gorgeous cake and coffee every day!"
Andy. One to One workshop.
"I had a great day with Jon at Morston a very interesting and informative time. Jon is a great mentor giving me pointers and advice to improve my positioning and layout of the scene I was photographing.Looking forward to another day with him."
James. Aspect 2i Norfolk Coast Workshop.
“Great workshop on my favourite coast! Three full and really useful - if rather windy, days. Jon was a great tutor, always more than willing to provide advice and encouragement. His friendly style, along with working in a small group, definitely provided the support I needed to improve my photography. I can fully recommend Jon as a workshop leader.”
Andy.Isle of Skye Workshop.
"I've just returned from Jon's Isle of Skye workshop. The island is somewhere I've planned on visiting for some time, so after seeing Jon's advert for his workshop, it seemed like the ideal opportunity.
Skye is one of the most visually stunning places I've ever visited, and that's possibly its problem - there's so much to see it's hard to know where to start. Luckily Jon knows the island like the back of his hand. Yes, he took us to the well known locations, but it's the out of the way places Jon knows that I'd never even heard of that were a real highlight for me. Sure, a guidebook can help, but nothing beats having someone on hand with so much experience.
Jon was on hand to give advice when it was needed, whether it was on the technical aspects of photography, composition or how to make the most out of Skye's ever changing conditions.
Jon's workshop was friendly, enjoyable and challenging and I would definitely recommend them to anyone considering one, regardless of their level of experience."
David. Isle of Skye Workshop. March 2017
"I spent four days with Jon on the changeable Isle of Skye. We had hail, snow, horizontal rain, gales and even sunshine, most days!
Jon managed to plan the trip with his extensive knowledge to maximise our photographic opportunities in all the weather conditions. He was helpful, approachable and relaxed. This all ensured we had a great time and a successful workshop. My knowledge and skills increased and I have loads of images that I am proud of. Thanks Jon, see you again."
Sue.Norfolk Broads and East Coast Workshop.
"I know a number of very accomplished photographers whose work I envy, however, the majority can’t teach.
Jon Gibbs is the exception. He is an accomplished photographer whose teaching ability is outstanding. He is patient and knowledgeable with an excellent eye, he is always there if you need help, but never in the way. Whenever I was stuck on composition he had suggestions that made me see a different view. He help with editing when time allowed. Best of all he is entertaining and has a lighthearted approach when it is needed most.
We stayed in a beautiful warm and comfortable self catering converted barn in East Norfolk, and went to excellent local hostelries for supper as well as having adequate pit stops during the day which always included coffee and excellent cake!"
Bruce.Norfolk Broads and East Coast Workshop.
Jon’s course on the Norfolk Coast was ideal for me: He knows the interesting sites, had endless patience helping me with composition, didn’t take his own camera on shoots and was still cheerful at the end of the day!
Chris.Isle of Skye Workshop.
‘This is not my first workshop with Jon and it is unlikely to be my last. That said it was my first time to the Isle of Skye. Having seen many fantastic photographs on Jon’s website of various locations on the island, it is somewhere I have wanted to visit. I saw Jon was advertising a workshop on the island and jumped at the opportunity.
The group size on the workshop was a great size and it was nice to meet some fellow photographers who also shared the same passion and enthusiasm for photography. The workshop started with a meet up at the house where we all got settled and had some chats about some of the locations we all wanted to photograph. After checking the forecast for the week, it gave an idea for Jon of how to plan the week and slip in some other locations. Although the island on the map looks relatively small, it does take time to get around the island.
Also, take what the forecast says as a pinch of salt, the weather can change in a blink of an eye. This was proved when we all walked up to the Old Man of Storr and the conditions were hail, rain, strong winds, and poor visibility. We persisted and ascended higher meeting another photographer along the way who was walking back down. As we got higher the visibility improved and the strong winds had blown the rain clouds away. We all waited patiently for the sun to rise and we managed to get some fantastic light and great shots. Jon knows the island very well and insisted that we keep going because the conditions change constantly. There were days of the trip where the weather wasn’t looking too great but Jon managed to always deliver on great locations. It may just mean sitting in the car having a choccy bar and waiting 10 mins.
Jon is also a man of his word and did not have his own camera throughout the workshop, instead opting to be a windshield, rain cover, bag holder or just being on hand to dispense helpful advice about the framing of a shot or things that needed to be tweaked. Overall I had a fantastic trip even though I managed to break my camera, oooops, because of the group and Jon leading a dynamic and flexible workshop.’
Chris’ images from the trip can be found here:
Skye Workshop images
Chris' website
Sian.Coastal photography day workshop.
Below is a blog entry from Sian about the coastal photography day workshop I ran for Aspect 2i in April 2016
Sian's blog entry
Sian's website
Kevin.Isle of Skye Workshop.
"My first photography trip to the Isle of Skye left a long lasting impression, the mountains, streams and the alluring changeable weather and light made for some stunning photographic opportunities. I vowed it wouldn’t be the last time to venture to the Island, I didn’t realise it would take me five years to return!
I have been a long-time admirer of Jon Gibbs photographic images from Norfolk and around the UK, he has an astute talent of blending beautiful light with the natural elements. When I saw that he was running a workshop in Scotland, specifically the Isle of Skye, I had no hesitation in booking a place.
The workshop ran from Sunday to Wednesday however Jon’s relaxed and flexible attitude was clear from the initial exchange of emails, “get here when you can, go home when you want” ( Jon stayed for a week ) I decided to fly from London City airport and then hire a car from Glasgow, this gave me the opportunity to break the journey up by stopping in Glen Coe for a cup of tea and some cliché photography. Jon rented a charming cottage in the village of Borve, a five minute drive from the main town of Portree , spacious, comfortable and an ideal spot to explore the island, he offers a basic shopping basket of food for the workshop days, breakfast and a pack lunch is included, however you are free to purchase your own food at the local stores. Evenings meals take place in the cottage or pub food in the main town.
A couple of things to point out, Jon does all the driving (keeping to small numbers enables this) and NEVER shoots whilst the workshop is taking place, extraordinary restraint from a photographer given the natural instinct when faced with beautiful scenery would be to reach for the camera, he is there to help you improve as a photographer and goes on to explain that if he would be taking photographs there would be no tuition, refreshing given other workshops I had been on. Continuing with the relaxed approach outings are discussed in the evening as a group, Jon’s familiarity of the Island helps to weigh up travel time from one location to the next and when the best time to visit a particular site. Whist out on a shoot Jon’s knowledge and teaching is always on hand but never intrusive, he insures each ‘student’ is given ample time and is always willing to discuss tips and tricks gathered from 20 years plus taking photographs. He has an invaluable check list of do’s and don’ts and by the end of the workshop they start to become second nature and are a great asset to your photography.
Jon is extremely passionate about photography and this shines with his enthusiasm to teaching the subject, he wants you to get the best out of the workshop, maximise the time in the field and capture the best images whilst on location. I had a thoroughly enjoyable 5 days on the island and would highly recommend the workshop to any photographer who is looking to improve their photography in a wonderful location."
Kev's Scotland and Skye images
Kev's website
Marc. Norfolk Coast and Countryside Tour.
I flew into Norwich on a grey and wet day. The 4 day Norfolk 2024 workshop I booked with Jon was to go ahead the next day. I was curious as I had not been back to the UK since 2002 and as I used to spend many vacations as a youngster in Gorleston and Great Yarmouth I was looking forward to seeing Norfolk again and being able to take exposures of the landscape. The house Jon rented for the 4 days was perfect, enough room for all of us (with Jon we were a group of 5) and enough space to retreat and relax. The next days were great with pretty good weather and only on 2 occasions did we have rain, but that did not deter us. We were up 3 out of the 4 days around 6am to make sure we could capture the sunrise light. Jon showed us great locations and was always concerned about making sure we had all the opportunities to get and take photographs. He was also very caring and asking many times whether we were OK with the locations and whether we needed help. I was glad e.g. that he had his tripod with him, as mine turned out to be too flimsy for Norfolk coastal weather. All in all the 4 days were certainly worth it flying in from Germany and I can only recommend attending his workshops. He leaves you enough space to check out what you want to photograph and is always there to assist with help and advice about compositions and camera settings whenever you might need it. Jon has an in-depth photography knowledge and he knows the Norfolk area like nobody else.I will remember these 4 days of great photography, great laughs, discussions and good food. With Jon's mentoring skills and good humour I felt very muchmuch back home. Something certainly I hope I can repeat on another one of Jon's workshops.
John. Assynt workshop.
Iconic "island" mountains, breathtaking coastline, beaches that would do justice to the Caribbean, mighty rivers, waterfalls and lochs, ....Assynt is Scotlands hidden and most stunning gem, a Landscape Photographers paradise tucked away in the northwest of the Highlands. But to truly appreciate this awe-inspiring and unique landscape, it takes a guide with years of local experience, a guide with a "photographers" eye, a guide who cut his teeth winning the much coveted LPOY award. The 5 star luxury accommodation is the 'cherry on top,'.....unmissable for any aspiring landscape photographer.
.Steve. Isle of Skye Workshop.
"I had an absolutely fantastic week in Skye with Jon. He's a great workshop leader, friendly, encouraging and supportive and really knowledgeable, both on the technical and the local area (we went to a number of spots you wouldn't see on a typical tour). I gained a lot more confidence in my photography over the course of the week, in large part because of Jon's tuition. I got a couple images that I'm really proud of and a whole lot more that I'm very satisfied with. I enjoyed it so much that I've just booked for another trip next year, this time to Assynt!"
.Nigel. Isle of Skye workshop.
Thanks again for giving us such a great experience during our week on Skye. Great hospitality, providing a lovely friendly, relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, and your expertise and knowledge of the island enabling us to make the most of our time there regardless of what the weather threw at us - and it threw quite a lot at us :). I was particularly impressed with how you judged just the right amount of attention to give to each of us whilst out in the field. Now going through my images and enjoying reliving it all.
I'll definitely be recommending you to others, and hope to join you again in the future.
Phil. Norfolk Broads and Coast workshop.
I picked the Norfolk Broads as it seemed different from the “usual suspects” for a photography workshop. Jon’s relaxed manner puts people at ease and his enthusiasm for his local area is infectious. Jon kept the numbers small, which gave plenty of time for individual advice, and he adjusted the pace of the workshop to suit as we went along. However, be prepared for an early start each day - the reward for which was some great shots through the dawn mist. Finally, Jon’s knowledge of the area extends to some great pubs for an evening meal!
David. Norfolk Broads and Coast workshop.
Here is a small portfolio of work David had published in On landscape online magazine which were taken on the workshop.
Norfolk Broads images
Colin. Aspect 2i Skye workshop.
I've been back a week now from my trip with Jon to Skye. I'd like to say how much I enjoyed the trip, especially Jon's enthusiasm, knowledge and even ability to deliver decent weather!
Before the trip I had been struggling with 'seeing' the possible compositions in front of me and turning them into 'wow' images. Jon definitely helped me do this and I have got a set of very satisfying images with even a possible wow or two.
Philip. Aspect 2i Skye workshop.
Thanks for the workshop on Skye. As a seasoned pro photographer it’s always a delight for me to discover that there are still things to learn - in fact important things - and you helped me to discover a lot that’s important. Your enthusiasm and attention to the various needs of the group was brilliant. You pushed us to create images that we wouldn’t otherwise make- and opened doors. Sincere thanks.
Peter. Aspect 2i Skye workshop.
Quote from email sent to me:
Thank you again for a most enjoyable week. I’m sure that all concerned thought it a great success and certainly it is an experience which I shall look back on with pleasure.
I shall aim to produce a photo book within the next few weeks and will provide a link in the hope that others will be interested to view my efforts. As you can imagine, I’m quite keen to get going on the computer - and will try not to be too heavy handed with the ‘dehaze’ control!
If I can afford it I do hope that I get to see you on another workshop in the not too distant future.
Tim. Assynt workshop.
My advice is simple – if you ever get the chance to go on a workshop with Jon, grab it!
I had an incredibly enjoyable week with him in Assynt. Jon has a deep knowledge of this part of the world and we covered a range of stunning locations including some real hidden gems, making the very best of each day’s conditions and opportunities. His small group approach really pays dividends – a nice tight party to travel and work with and Jon devoting lots of time to each individual. I found him an exceptionally supportive and skilled tutor, extremely helpful on the technical side but importantly he also has the gift of understanding the sort of help different folk need, intervening when needed but understanding how to give space and support and to encourage individual ideas. The week really pushed my own photography along, no doubt about that. Jon’s also an absolute diamond, nothing too much trouble, generous of spirit and just a great guy to have as a workshop leader. I can’t recommend his workshops highly enough.
David.Aspect 2i North Norfolk workshop.
On this 3-day workshop on the north Norfolk coast, our small group experienced the worst (or so it seemed at the time) of conditions for a workshop, with unseasonal cold and fog on every day but Jon ensured that we didn’t lack for subjects, even taking us inland to Felbrigg Hall in the search for some different ones. Jon was a very patient and supportive teacher, taking time with each of us and never making us feel rushed, and his advice on subjects and composition was very helpful at the time and will be in my future photography. Recommended.
Frank. Sutherland ASspect 2i workshop.
I attended this workshop which was led by Jon Gibbs. We could not have asked for a better leader. Jon personally collected me from and returned me to Inverness airport which was nearly three hours away from our hotel. Throughout the workshop he was indefatigable and very enthusiastic even in the face of often very adverse weather. Jon is a pro photographer and he was always ready to give advice and support during the shoots. I will happily book a place on any other workshop to be led by him.
Ian. Sutherland Aspect 2i workshop.
This was my first photography workshop, as a result I was unsure of what to expect, but Jon’s relaxed manner helped me to settle in. Jon’s knowledge of Sutherland took the group to locations that we might not have found on our own and his enthusiasm for and knowledge of photography was obvious, giving helpful advice when needed, but leaving myself to make my own decisions and develop during the week.
I would recommend any workshop led by Jon
Peter and David. Assynt/Sutherland Workshop.
"We recently returned from Scotland following an excellent workshop with Jon and fellow photographers.
Jon’s knowledge of the area is extensive, including names of (most) of the well known and not so well known mountains etc.
The base used for this workshop is idyllic and perfect in every way and contributed to the success of the trip.
The most noticeable thing about Jon is that his main aim is for his clients to get the most out of the workshop, ensuring that everyone receives the help/guidance that they might need and the small groups he leads ensure that this aim is met in a very quiet and personable way.
One of the most enjoyable workshops I have been on and would definitely recommend any of Jon’s workshops with no hesitation."
Pete. Lake District workshop with Jon Gibbs and Mark Littlejohn.
"Really enjoyed both yourself and Mark’s company and guidance. An enjoyable week of good company, beer and cakes. Oh and photography!"
Mick. Lake District workshop with Jon Gibbs and Mark Littlejohn.
"This was a dual led workshop by Jon Gibbs and Mark Littlejohn in an area of outstanding beauty. Mark took care of the locations and Jon and Mark handled the technical aspects. Not being the right age for hill climbing Jon was happy to stay with me at the lower levels but after a little encouragement and some help with carrying my kit I stayed with the group allowing Jon and Mark to offer help to all of us.
This was an excellent workshop led by two outstanding photographers and helped by a wonderful group."
Mark. One to one workshop.
“Jon was a fantastic photography coach. His knowledge, experience, critical eye and incredible landscape photography knowledge were perfectly pitched to help me learn and progress my own knowledge. His geographic knowledge of North Norfolk helped us get off the tourist routes and attend locations that were breathtaking and a pleasure to photograph. Jon is extremely personable and I loved the whole day”
Chris. One to one workshop.
“Just back from a full day’s wandering along the North Norfolk coast with Jon. What an excellent day! I have learnt so much about my camera and had my imagination inspired by the wide variety of photography we explored, not just landscapes but seeing the potential in the things we can find lying around us. We didn’t have the best day, light-wise, but Jon managed to keep me interested and attentive for the whole day and I went home feeling inspired and looking forward to next weekend when I can get out there with my camera again. Jon’s workshop gets a ten out of ten from me both for content and value for money”
Carol. Lake District workshop with Jon Gibbs and Mark Littlejohn.
"This was the first residential landscape photography course I've ever done, with Mark Littlejohn and Jon Gibbs, and I found it both informative and inspirational. Mark knows the area around Penrith like the back of his hand and was able to take us to location after stunning location, depending on the weather and the light etc. Both Mark and Jon took an interest in each of us in the group and understood quickly our abilities and what we were trying to achieve. I learned so much not only about composition, technical stuff, but also mainly a sincere and heartfelt approach to photography that will remain with me. Four days of indulgence in photography in some of the most beautiful places in the world, with a great group, and gorgeous cake and coffee every day!"
Andy. One to One workshop.
"I had a great day with Jon at Morston a very interesting and informative time. Jon is a great mentor giving me pointers and advice to improve my positioning and layout of the scene I was photographing.Looking forward to another day with him."
James. Aspect 2i Norfolk Coast Workshop.
“Great workshop on my favourite coast! Three full and really useful - if rather windy, days. Jon was a great tutor, always more than willing to provide advice and encouragement. His friendly style, along with working in a small group, definitely provided the support I needed to improve my photography. I can fully recommend Jon as a workshop leader.”
Andy.Isle of Skye Workshop.
"I've just returned from Jon's Isle of Skye workshop. The island is somewhere I've planned on visiting for some time, so after seeing Jon's advert for his workshop, it seemed like the ideal opportunity.
Skye is one of the most visually stunning places I've ever visited, and that's possibly its problem - there's so much to see it's hard to know where to start. Luckily Jon knows the island like the back of his hand. Yes, he took us to the well known locations, but it's the out of the way places Jon knows that I'd never even heard of that were a real highlight for me. Sure, a guidebook can help, but nothing beats having someone on hand with so much experience.
Jon was on hand to give advice when it was needed, whether it was on the technical aspects of photography, composition or how to make the most out of Skye's ever changing conditions.
Jon's workshop was friendly, enjoyable and challenging and I would definitely recommend them to anyone considering one, regardless of their level of experience."
David. Isle of Skye Workshop. March 2017
"I spent four days with Jon on the changeable Isle of Skye. We had hail, snow, horizontal rain, gales and even sunshine, most days!
Jon managed to plan the trip with his extensive knowledge to maximise our photographic opportunities in all the weather conditions. He was helpful, approachable and relaxed. This all ensured we had a great time and a successful workshop. My knowledge and skills increased and I have loads of images that I am proud of. Thanks Jon, see you again."
Sue.Norfolk Broads and East Coast Workshop.
"I know a number of very accomplished photographers whose work I envy, however, the majority can’t teach.
Jon Gibbs is the exception. He is an accomplished photographer whose teaching ability is outstanding. He is patient and knowledgeable with an excellent eye, he is always there if you need help, but never in the way. Whenever I was stuck on composition he had suggestions that made me see a different view. He help with editing when time allowed. Best of all he is entertaining and has a lighthearted approach when it is needed most.
We stayed in a beautiful warm and comfortable self catering converted barn in East Norfolk, and went to excellent local hostelries for supper as well as having adequate pit stops during the day which always included coffee and excellent cake!"
Bruce.Norfolk Broads and East Coast Workshop.
Jon’s course on the Norfolk Coast was ideal for me: He knows the interesting sites, had endless patience helping me with composition, didn’t take his own camera on shoots and was still cheerful at the end of the day!
Chris.Isle of Skye Workshop.
‘This is not my first workshop with Jon and it is unlikely to be my last. That said it was my first time to the Isle of Skye. Having seen many fantastic photographs on Jon’s website of various locations on the island, it is somewhere I have wanted to visit. I saw Jon was advertising a workshop on the island and jumped at the opportunity.
The group size on the workshop was a great size and it was nice to meet some fellow photographers who also shared the same passion and enthusiasm for photography. The workshop started with a meet up at the house where we all got settled and had some chats about some of the locations we all wanted to photograph. After checking the forecast for the week, it gave an idea for Jon of how to plan the week and slip in some other locations. Although the island on the map looks relatively small, it does take time to get around the island.
Also, take what the forecast says as a pinch of salt, the weather can change in a blink of an eye. This was proved when we all walked up to the Old Man of Storr and the conditions were hail, rain, strong winds, and poor visibility. We persisted and ascended higher meeting another photographer along the way who was walking back down. As we got higher the visibility improved and the strong winds had blown the rain clouds away. We all waited patiently for the sun to rise and we managed to get some fantastic light and great shots. Jon knows the island very well and insisted that we keep going because the conditions change constantly. There were days of the trip where the weather wasn’t looking too great but Jon managed to always deliver on great locations. It may just mean sitting in the car having a choccy bar and waiting 10 mins.
Jon is also a man of his word and did not have his own camera throughout the workshop, instead opting to be a windshield, rain cover, bag holder or just being on hand to dispense helpful advice about the framing of a shot or things that needed to be tweaked. Overall I had a fantastic trip even though I managed to break my camera, oooops, because of the group and Jon leading a dynamic and flexible workshop.’
Chris’ images from the trip can be found here:
Skye Workshop images
Chris' website
Sian.Coastal photography day workshop.
Below is a blog entry from Sian about the coastal photography day workshop I ran for Aspect 2i in April 2016
Sian's blog entry
Sian's website
Kevin.Isle of Skye Workshop.
"My first photography trip to the Isle of Skye left a long lasting impression, the mountains, streams and the alluring changeable weather and light made for some stunning photographic opportunities. I vowed it wouldn’t be the last time to venture to the Island, I didn’t realise it would take me five years to return!
I have been a long-time admirer of Jon Gibbs photographic images from Norfolk and around the UK, he has an astute talent of blending beautiful light with the natural elements. When I saw that he was running a workshop in Scotland, specifically the Isle of Skye, I had no hesitation in booking a place.
The workshop ran from Sunday to Wednesday however Jon’s relaxed and flexible attitude was clear from the initial exchange of emails, “get here when you can, go home when you want” ( Jon stayed for a week ) I decided to fly from London City airport and then hire a car from Glasgow, this gave me the opportunity to break the journey up by stopping in Glen Coe for a cup of tea and some cliché photography. Jon rented a charming cottage in the village of Borve, a five minute drive from the main town of Portree , spacious, comfortable and an ideal spot to explore the island, he offers a basic shopping basket of food for the workshop days, breakfast and a pack lunch is included, however you are free to purchase your own food at the local stores. Evenings meals take place in the cottage or pub food in the main town.
A couple of things to point out, Jon does all the driving (keeping to small numbers enables this) and NEVER shoots whilst the workshop is taking place, extraordinary restraint from a photographer given the natural instinct when faced with beautiful scenery would be to reach for the camera, he is there to help you improve as a photographer and goes on to explain that if he would be taking photographs there would be no tuition, refreshing given other workshops I had been on. Continuing with the relaxed approach outings are discussed in the evening as a group, Jon’s familiarity of the Island helps to weigh up travel time from one location to the next and when the best time to visit a particular site. Whist out on a shoot Jon’s knowledge and teaching is always on hand but never intrusive, he insures each ‘student’ is given ample time and is always willing to discuss tips and tricks gathered from 20 years plus taking photographs. He has an invaluable check list of do’s and don’ts and by the end of the workshop they start to become second nature and are a great asset to your photography.
Jon is extremely passionate about photography and this shines with his enthusiasm to teaching the subject, he wants you to get the best out of the workshop, maximise the time in the field and capture the best images whilst on location. I had a thoroughly enjoyable 5 days on the island and would highly recommend the workshop to any photographer who is looking to improve their photography in a wonderful location."
Kev's Scotland and Skye images
Kev's website