AMAZING AZORES
10 DAY PHOTO WORKSHOP
8-17 AUGUST 2025
Embark on a 10-day photo workshop through the stunning islands of São Miguel, Flores, Corvo and Terceira. Immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of each destination, capturing unforgettable moments along the way. Join us on this photographic journey and discover the unique charm of every island, all through the lens of your camera.
Join me, a local photographer and guide born in the Azores, for an unforgettable 10-day photo adventure through this incredible archipelago, hidden in the heart of the North Atlantic. Having grown up here, I know the islands' landscapes, culture, and hidden gems like no one else. This workshop takes you to the volcanic islands of São Miguel, Flores, Corvo and Terceira, where you'll capture stunning moments while steering clear of the typical tourist traps. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced photographer, this journey offers expert guidance, valuable new skills, and the chance to photograph some of the most picturesque places on Earth.
The Azores, renowned for their lush greenery, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and unspoiled beauty, are home to one of the world’s largest whale sanctuaries. This region is a photographer's dream, offering a year-round paradise for capturing extraordinary scenes of nature. The islands' diverse landscapes, from volcanic craters to rugged coastlines, promise a wide variety of breathtaking shots that will elevate your portfolio.
During this workshop, we’ll explore São Miguel, Flores, Corvo and Terceira in style, with a combination of private shuttles and commercial flights ensuring smooth travel between islands. All transportation, including inter-island flights and accommodations, are included, allowing you to focus entirely on capturing the essence of the Azores without the stress of logistics.
The experience goes beyond photography – it’s about embracing the rich local culture, engaging with the warm-hearted people of the islands, and discovering hidden gems that few visitors ever see. From volcanic villages to rejuvenating hot springs to pristine natural wonders, this workshop is designed for those with a true sense of adventure.
A highlight of our trip is the island of Corvo, where we’ll be guided by Carlos Mendes of Extreme Ocidente, taking a boat ride along the jaw-dropping coastline of Flores, showcasing stunning waterfalls and caves. Along the way, we may also encounter dolphins and whales, adding an unforgettable dimension to our photo adventure.
While the itinerary is carefully planned, we embrace the flexibility to adapt to any unexpected photographic opportunities that arise, ensuring that each day is dynamic and tailored to the group's needs. As a local guide and photographer, I’ll be with you every step of the way, providing field guidance and hands-on learning during our dedicated sessions for a comprehensive photography experience.
These photo workshops are always for small groups, a maximum of 5 participants, it’s a one-on-one experience.
PRICE
5100€
(single occupancy in private room with bathroom)
DATES
8-17 AUGUST 2025
GROUP SIZE
3-5
PHOTO GUIDE
Bruno Ázera
EXPERIENCE
beginner / amateur / advanced
PHYSICAL DIFFICULTY
mostly easy, only small hikes are involved
ISLANDS
São Miguel / Flores / Corvo / Terceira
HIGHLIGHTS
Discover 4 island paradises: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of São Miguel, Flores, Corvo and Terceira Island, each boasting its own distinct charm and natural wonders
Guided by a professional photographer: Benefit from the guidance of a local and seasoned photographer intimately familiar with the islands’ most picturesque locations, ensuring you capture the perfect shot.
Diverse landscapes: From the rugged volcanic landscapes of São Miguel to Flores emerald-green mountains and waterfalls, every day offers a new and captivating backdrop for your photographs.
Cultural immersion: Engage with local traditions, interact with the warm island communities, and capture the authenticity of daily life through your camera lens.
Small group experience: To facilitate personalized attention, our workshop is limited to a small group of passionate photographers, fostering an environment for shared learning and inspiration.
Skill enhancement: Refine your technical skills and artistic vision, taking your photography to the next level.
Unforgettable Memories: Create a collection of photographs that not only tell a story but also serve as timeless memories of your incredible journey through these Atlantic gems.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Photography workshop led by a local professional (fluent in Portuguese and English)
Hands-on guidance in the field to improve your technique and composition
Daily tips and shooting strategies tailored to different landscapes and light conditions
Image reviews and feedback sessions to help you grow as a photographer
Lightroom and Photoshop editing sessions to refine your post-processing skills
Transportation in a comfortable vehicle
9 nights accommodation in carefully selected hotels (single occupancy, private bathroom)
Daily breakfast
All park and location access fees
Inter-island flights and boat ride to Corvo (weather permitting)
Whale Watching experience with a trusted local operator
Welcome lunch and farewell dinner with the group
Personal accident insurance and liability coverage
A small group setting and lots of fun!
NOT INCLUDED
Alcoholic beverages and other personal drinks
Meals not mentioned above (lunches and dinners not listed under "What’s Included")
International flights to Ponta Delgada (São Miguel Island)
Entry visas, if required
Gratuities for photo guide, local guides, and drivers
Travel and cancellation insurance (strongly recommended when booking flights and accommodations)
THE ISLANDS WE EXPLORE
SÃO MIGUEL / FLORES / CORVO / TERCEIRA
ITINERARY OVERVIEW
Day 1: Welcome to São Miguel
Arrive at João Paulo II Airport in Ponta Delgada. Spend the morning settling in and exploring at your leisure. Later, we'll gather for a relaxing welcome lunch, an ideal time to meet your fellow travelers, ask questions, and discuss the adventures ahead.
In the afternoon, we visit Europe's oldest tea plantation, Gorreana, with its charming factory and vibrant fields—perfect for capturing unique images and mastering natural-light techniques.
Sunset finds us at either Santa Bárbara beach or the dramatic Miradouro do Cintrão cliffs, each offering stunning coastal vistas with the majestic Sete Cidades volcano as a backdrop.
Day 2: Lagoa do Fogo & Sete Cidades
Our day starts at Lagoa do Fogo, a serene volcanic lake where you'll have the chance to experiment with drone photography and long-exposure techniques.
After lunch, we head to the enchanting crater lakes of Sete Cidades, Lagoa Verde and Azul, capturing diverse perspectives and compositions.
We end the day photographing the waves and rock formations at Mosteiros Beach, honing your seascape photography skills during the golden hour.
Day 3: Sunrise & Botanical Delights
We begin early at Santa Iria Viewpoint, capturing the sunrise over the island's northern coast.
Next, we visit the lush Terra Nostra Park in Furnas. Enjoy photographing detailed textures, vibrant colors, and if you wish, relax in its thermal waters.
Lunch features the local specialty, Cozido das Furnas, cooked naturally by volcanic steam.
Our afternoon concludes with a scenic hike to Grota do Inferno, offering spectacular aerial views of Sete Cidades, perfect for unforgettable shots.
Day 4: Vila Franca & Journey to Flores
Early morning brings us to Vila Franca Islet, an intriguing volcanic crater accessible for unique drone perspectives.
We then fly to Flores Island, renowned for its rugged beauty. After settling in, we enjoy our first Lightroom editing session, exploring techniques to enhance your images.
Later, we'll capture the dramatic waterfalls and lush landscape at Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro, focusing on depth and mood in your compositions.
Day 5: Flores Island Landscapes We greet the day at Morro Alto, photographing panoramic views of Lagoa Negra and Lagoa Comprida, practicing landscape layering and depth.
Later, Lagoa Rasa and Lagoa Funda offer further opportunities to explore light and reflections.
The day ends at the Albarnaz Lighthouse, photographing the striking cliffs and seascapes illuminated by the setting sun.
Day 6: Corvo Island Expedition
Weather permitting, we embark on a private boat trip to Corvo Island. En route, capture stunning coastal formations and wildlife, including dolphins or whales.
Back on Flores, sunset finds us at Rocha dos Bordões, capturing striking basalt columns, perfect for wide-angle and abstract photography.
Day 7: Sunrise & Arrival in Terceira
At sunrise, Baía da Alagoa provides breathtaking vistas of basalt formations and Corvo Island silhouetted against the dawn sky.
Afterward, we fly to Terceira, exploring Angra do Heroísmo’s historic charm and the atmospheric Black Forest, perfect for evocative forest imagery.
We end the day at Serra de Santa Bárbara, using telephoto lenses to capture striking gradients and textures during sunset.
Day 8: Coastal Highlights & Volcano Patchworks
Begin your morning at the serene Serretinha natural pools, photographing rugged lava formations meeting the ocean.
Later, we explore Pico Dona Joana for minimalist drone compositions.
In the afternoon, Ponta do Mistério surreal volcanic landscapes provide dramatic scenery before concluding at Biscoitos, ideal for long-exposure seascapes.
Day 9: Scenic Finales & Editing Session
We start our day at the photogenic Ponta das Contendas Lighthouse, capturing dynamic rock formations and seascapes.
Afternoon brings another editing session, refining your images and discussing portfolio development in Lightroom and Photoshop.
Our final sunset is at Serra do Cume, famous for its geometric "patchwork" landscapes, perfectly illuminated in golden light.
Day 10: Farewell & Departure
Enjoy one last sunrise shoot at the rugged coastline of Porto Martins.
After breakfast, we say goodbye and arrange airport transfers. You’ll leave with incredible memories, new friendships, and stunning photographs capturing the essence of your Azorean adventure. Safe travels, and we hope to see you again!
ACCOMMODATIONS
THE LINCE AZORES / HOTEL CRUZEIRO / HOTEL OCIDENTAL
WHAT TO BRING
CAMERA GEAR
Camera (DSLR or Mirrorless)
For our photography sessions, a camera with full manual control is essential to achieve precise exposures. It should also have interchangeable lenses to cover a variety of focal lengths.
Lenses
Lenses are a personal preference, but I recommend bringing a focal range between 16mm and 300mm to handle most situations. My personal setup includes a Nikon 14-24mm, a 24-120mm and a 70-200mm telephoto lens, which covers a wide range of compositions.
Filters
Graduated filters aren’t mandatory, but if you have them, feel free to bring them. ND filters can be particularly useful for experimenting with long exposures.
Tripod
While modern camera stabilization is impressive, a tripod is still recommended for long exposures and precise compositions. Some professional photographers even do focus stacking handheld, but a tripod can make certain shots easier and more consistent.
Backpack
We won’t be taking long hikes, but a comfortable, lightweight, and versatile camera backpack is essential for carrying and protecting your gear.
Drone
I highly recommend bringing a drone to capture breathtaking aerial perspectives, especially along the coastline. If you bring one, ensure you can manually launch and land it and navigate basic flight paths. I personally fly with a DJI Mavic 3 Pro, but even a DJI Mini is capable of capturing stunning footage.
CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR
Waterproof and Windproof Jacket
The Azores’ weather is unpredictable, especially along the coastline, where ocean spray and sudden rain showers are common. A high-quality waterproof and windproof jacket with sealed seams, adjustable cuffs, and a hood is highly recommended.
Warm Layers for Cooler Evenings
Evenings can be cool, particularly at higher elevations. Warm layers, such as a fleece jacket or a lightweight down vest, will keep you comfortable during sunset shoots and night photography sessions.
Quick-Drying Pants
Opt for quick-drying pants made from synthetic materials or lightweight hiking trousers that offer both comfort and functionality.
Footwear
I personally prefer lightweight running shoes over heavy hiking boots. While boots provide more protection, the terrain in the Azores doesn’t necessarily require them, and running shoes offer better grip and flexibility. Choose what works best for you.
Swimwear
We’ll be visiting Terra Nostra Park, famous for its beautiful gardens and thermal pools. I highly recommend taking a dip, so don’t forget your swimwear and flip-flops. Towels are provided by the hotel.
The Azores’ climate is highly unpredictable, so packing the right clothing and gear is key to an enjoyable experience. Be prepared for sudden weather changes, and bring what makes you feel comfortable while photographing in various conditions.
GETTING TO THE AZORES
This photography workshop begins on São Miguel Island, continues through the wild and remote landscapes of Flores and Corvo, and finishes on Terceira Island.
The easiest and most convenient way to arrive is by flying into Ponta Delgada (PDL) on São Miguel Island, which offers the best range of international connections—especially from Europe and North America. Since the workshop starts here, it makes for a smooth and easy arrival.
Sample Travel Routes
From the U.S.: Boston (BOS) → Ponta Delgada (PDL)
From Europe: Lisbon (LIS) or Porto (OPO) → Ponta Delgada (PDL)
If you’re unsure about the best route or coming from a different location, feel free to reach out. I'm happy to help you figure out the most convenient travel option.
Inter-Island Flights & Optional Return
All internal flights during the workshop—from São Miguel to Flores, and Flores to Terceira—are included.
The workshop ends on Terceira Island, and you’ll have two options for departing the Azores:
Option 1: Depart directly from Terceira (TER), which has direct flights to mainland Portugal and select international destinations.
Option 2: I will include a return flight back to São Miguel (PDL) at no extra cost if you prefer to fly home from there, where there are typically more frequent flight connections.
Just let me know your travel preferences in advance, and I’ll help coordinate the best option for your return.
Inter-Island Flights & Baggage Info
All inter-island flights are operated by SATA (Azores Airlines) and are arranged for you in advance.
Carry-On Baggage (Cabin):
1 carry-on bag up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs)
Max dimensions: 55 x 40 x 20 cm
1 personal item (e.g., camera bag or laptop backpack)
Checked Baggage:
1 checked bag included
Weight limit: 23 kg (50 lbs)
Max dimensions: 158 cm (L + W + H)
For more details, check SATA’s official baggage policy.
Packing Tips for Photographers
Camera gear: Keep essential gear (camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards) in your carry-on.
Tripods & extras: Safely stow heavier gear and accessories in checked luggage.
Dress for variety: Weather can change quickly—bring layers, waterproof outerwear, and protective gear for your equipment.
Pack light but smart: The islands’ microclimates mean flexibility is key. Comfortable, layered clothing is ideal for staying ready for any condition.
THE GUIDE
I’m Bruno Ázera, a landscape photographer and photo workshop leader born in the Azores, Portugal. I specialize in capturing the region’s stunning landscapes, and my work has been featured in National Geographic and TV commercials. Through my photo workshops and detailed photo guides, I help travelers explore the Azores and Madeira while sharing my passion for photography, nature, and sustainability.
BRUNO ÁZERA
BEHIND THE SCENES
AMAZING AZORES 10 DAY PHOTO WORKSHOP
8-17 AUGUST 2025
If you like what you see here, please book this workshop in the form below.
An email will be sent to you with all the information to complete the registration.
A deposit of 1000€ is required to register for this workshop.
Participants joining should generally feel well and be physically capable of outdoor activities. It’s also important that you are comfortable using a camera.
CHECK OUT TESTIMONIALS FROM OTHER PARTICIPANTS AND PLEASE READ OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS BEFORE REGISTERING