What is the difference between a photo tour and a photo workshop

Cheetah photo taken by Kevin Pepper during a Photo Workshop to Namibia

I often get asked how a photo tour is different from a photo workshop. So, I thought I would write a quick blog explaining what I think the difference is.

Photo Workshops

Photography workshops tend to have a more structured atmosphere. They have a heavy educational component and image critiques both in the field and in editing software when the day is completed. Really good workshops will be taught by a professional photographer like myself that has extensive experience at the location you take the workshop at.

Photo Tours

Photography tours are more casual in nature and the instruction isn’t as intense. More emphasis is placed on the full holiday experience while photographing a bucket-list location. Tours rarely include location teaching and group critiques and discussions are rare.

Depending on the tour and the lead photographer, you may have the opportunity to discuss your work privately, but that is never a given. If you want that kind of attention, ask upfront before you book on a tour.

In Conclusion

Ask what kind of trip it is before you book.

Consider your personal goals of traveling on a given trip.

Look at the number of attendees. Tours can have many more people on them versus a workshop.

Look at the credentials of the workshop instructor – How often have they traveled to the location? How many people will be at the workshop? Does the workshop leader have testimonials?

I hope I gave you something to think about before you book your next photography holiday.