Photography Retreats and Expeditions

An inspiring workshop that challenged and expanded our view and practice of photography both inside and outside of the studio. Juerg Kaufmann offers invaluable insight into the world of professional photography in a well structured course that balances theory and corresponding practice. Intense, tailored to individual needs and effective! An amazing opportunity for anyone aspiring to dive a bit deeper into the world of photography.

I attended Jürg's Portrait Masterclass on August 20, 2024. We were a small group that gathered in Zurich; the hall is huge, and the setup is brilliant, inviting for creative work.

An internationally renowned model was present, and she is fantastic! Jürg is an extremely likable, upbeat, uncomplicated, and creative person, that's how I got to know him.

He exudes energy, and I can feel his passion for photography, it's absolutely contagious. During the 3 hours, we experimented with light and shadow, and believe me, I learned more in those 3 hours than in the past 3 years combined.

What does a photographer need to deliver great images? Skills, knowledge, passion. A statement from Jürg that will stay with me forever.

Venice of the Venetians. Two photographers reveal a completely different city. Explore locations far from tourist crowds. This is a premium experience. It resonates on multiple levels: visually, gastronomically, personally. For Jürg and Manuel, their passion extends beyond the craft. Equally vital is sharing insights, guiding participants toward their unique photographic voice. Seek authentic Venice? This workshop offers that rare chance.

Thank you very much for the outstanding workshop and for sharing your valuable expertise.

I really appreciated that we were able to spontaneously include the helicopter flight in the workshop program. The preparation was very informative and certainly contributed to some of the resulting images being quite impressive.

The insights into the slower, more deliberate approach of the two analog photographers were both interesting and inspiring.

I found Manuel's thoughts on composition and framing on location particularly engaging, it was great to gain insight into his perspective. I would definitely love to see more of that.

The weather module, based on Jürg's sailing experience, was also very useful. These days, I always use it when planning my photography outings.

The group image review on the final day was extremely valuable to me as well.

All in all, I found the workshop to be a great success. I really enjoyed the varied program. In addition to the photography sessions, there was also time for many exciting conversations and fascinating stories from your professional experience.

The tour of the Grace Hotel and the shared story behind its creation were also very impressive.

Once again, thank you so much for your time and for generously sharing your knowledge.

Even before the workshop began, Jürg had sensitized me to the days ahead. We spent three days on the rooftop of the Engadin. Here are a few impressions:

Organization: It felt loosely organized and yet everything was executed perfectly. As an analog photographer, what you truly need is time, time and more time. To become one with the landscape, with nature, and with your camera. There was no time pressure, but during the actual shooting, the level of focus and intensity was high, exactly what it takes to create meaningful images. That's how it should be.

Surprises: One thing not included in the original description was a helicopter flight. Spontaneously, the group decided to go for it, and what an experience. Thanks to Jürg's immense experience, we were meticulously prepared for those 60 minutes. A true enrichment and an unforgettable moment. Just amazing.

Overall impression: Thanks to great organization and highly personalized guidance from Jürg and Manuel, my expectations were fully met. I'm afraid I may have become a repeat offender.

For me, the short time in Venice under your guidance was exciting, instructive, and shaped by an endless wealth of impressions, both photographic and culinary.

It was a completely different challenge than photographing landscapes in Iceland, whales in Greenland, or animals in Alaska, especially since I almost never visit cities.