Ah, Paris...or rather Benyac...

I met the amazing Nicole Hill two years ago at the first Creative Photography Retreat. As part of the team that got to plan that event I was able to handpick photographers to teach and Nicole was someone who I had long admired through her blog. I was so happy when she agreed and I got to finally meet her. We hit if off in no time! It wasn't until the next year when we met up again teaching in Houston that we decided it would be nice to have an event all to ourselves; one where we could do things our own way, and oh by the way - wouldn't it be amazing to have it in Europe? I remember the moment that we both turned to each other and said, "La Maisonnette!" You see, we are both followers of Stephanie's blog and had watched her transition a small cottage in the city of Benyac, France into a thing of simplistic beauty. And so, ideas were formed and emails began to be written. As it turns out, Benyac is the PERFECT place for a photography retreat. There are hills, a river, a small stone village straight out of a movie...literally out of a movie. Chocolat and Ever After were both filmed there for it's amazing beauty. There are also orchards near by and I'm pretty sure heavenly angles sang to me when I saw all the amazing stone walls and cobble stone streets that surround a castle fit for only the best of fairy tales.

And so it's happening! We've signed the papers, and with the help of Ben and Steph, found brilliant chefs to cater our lunches. We found hotels for fantastic prices, and even have an amazing model booked. We want this to be a fantastic learning experience and a fun trip of a lifetime! Just think - it could be you and a small group of only 19 other people wandering the countryside with Nicole and I helping you find the perfect shot!  But hurry - I wish we could bring everyone with us, but there aren't many spots left! So if you want to come,  you need to decide soon! I'd love to see you there and spend three days with you! 

For more information or to purchase the retreat you can go here. And if you have any questions feel free to contact me. 

It’s time to see France through a whole new lens. PhotographersNicole Hill Gerulat and Candice Stringham will share 3 fabulous photo-fun-filled days with you in the countryside region of Beynac. You’ll learn how to photograph architecture, landscapes, and portraits within breathtaking scenery and humbling environment. A limited group size (fewer than 20 people) ensures you will get the personal attention and creative support you deserve. A peaceful background, cozy accommodations, world-class food … this may be the most memorable trip of your life.

Take your photography to the next level – take the French Photo Retreat with Nicole Hill Gerulat and Candice Stringham!


When: July 12-14, 2010

Where: Beynac-et-Cazenac, a gorgeous, picturesque village 5.5 hrs (by car) from Paris. Does the place look familiar? The movies Chocolat and Ever After were filmed here!



Hotel: We have a block of rooms reserved at Hostellerie Maleville

65 € for a double room with breakfast included

60 € for a single room with breakfast included

85 € for a triple room with breakfast included

The prices with breakfast and dinner included (half board) are :

65 € per person in a double room or triple room

81 € for one person in a single room

Schedule of Events: 

Each morning we'll begin with class instruction. The morning classes will take place around La Maisonette (a home owned by Stephanie of the well known blog, Stephmodo). Literally built into the castle walls, it's the perfect location for beautiful views and amazing light. We'll discuss such topics as equipment, settings, finding and creating beautiful light, food/ table top photography, portraiture, and basic editing. Detailed instructions and handouts will be included. Both Nicole and Candice have BFA's in photography and many years of teaching experience. With such a small group of students, this retreat is a great opportunity to ask lots of questions and receive personal feedback.

Lunch will be served each day before we depart to our stunning photo-shoot locations. You will get to enjoy classic french fare catered by a local chef.

Because Benyac is such a beautiful village we will spend the afternoons exploring photographic opportunities at various locations. With models and both instructors on site, you'll have the chance to put all the knowledge you are gaining into practice.

Each evening class will end at 5 p.m. After 5, you'll have an opportunity yourself to explore and enjoy a little downtime in Benyac.

On the final evening, Nicole and Candice will host a dinner party at a local restaurant to end our fabulous three days together!

Cost: $1400 -Includes 3 full days of instruction with models (and any excursions we might take). Lunch provided and Wednesday dinner provided. does not include hotel or airfare.

Comments

[Lonely Scrapbooker]

Wow this looks wonderful. I wish I could attend. Maybe next year! I hope it's a huge success, for you both and also so that you'll do it again!

[Lorell]

This sounds so amazing! A quick question about the excursions...will the group be traveling together, say on a tour bus or something? Just curious how that's working. I'd really love to sign up for this...:D

[jen berry]

darn it. i'll actually be in the south of france the week prior. So bummed

[kimbrali]

i am so interested in this!
who should i contact for more information?

[candice]

You can email me at cstringhamphoto@aol.com or go to the link in the post and you can ask questions there!

[Stephanie]

You gals are going to have so much fun...wish I could join you :)

xo

[Trisha]

I am SO EXCITED for this! My friend Emily and I signed up for it the first day registration was open!! :)

[ugg uk]

I had to refresh the page 2 times to view this page for some reason, however, the information here was worth the wait.