Lake Garda Mindful Photography Retreat, 20th to 25th January 2025

Workshops and retreats by Still are a way of exploring mindfulness through the art of photography. Set in some of the most beautiful scenery and sweeping landscapes that the planet has to offer, you will be encouraged to switch off from the outside world, giving yourself time and space to be creative. Time is one thing we can guarantee you will have; there will be no rushing and no pressure. The emphasis is on the quality of the experience.

Forget technical jargon and equipment envy. Shed the pressure to perform; trade pixel-perfect edits for the imperfect beauty of authenticity. You’ll learn to see with your heart, to feel the symphony of nature play upon your senses, and find yourself… not in pixels, but in the quiet spaces between them.

It's about stepping off the digital treadmill and surrendering to the moment. Each click becomes a meditation, a dance between light and stillness, where the only competition is with your own thoughts.

The details

Immerse Yourself in the Beauty of Lake Garda: A Mindful Photography Retreat

Lake Garda's beauty is undeniable, a masterpiece painted by nature itself. But this retreat is about more than capturing stunning scenery. It's about using photography as a tool for mindfulness, a way to slow down, truly see, and appreciate the magic that surrounds you.

Lake Garda isn't just stunning; it's steeped in history. Romans called it Lacus Benacus, and its shores have witnessed empires rise and fall. Imagine capturing the ancient ruins of a Roman villa at Sirmione, its weathered stones whispering stories of a bygone era. Or perhaps you'll be drawn to the charming villages that dot the coastline, their colourful houses reflecting in the crystal-clear water.

Lake Garda's beauty is undeniable, but this retreat delves deeper. We'll use photography as a tool for mindfulness, helping you slow down, truly see, and appreciate the magic that surrounds you. Imagine waking up to the gentle lapping of waves against the shore, the first rays of dawn painting the snow-capped peaks of the Italian Alps a golden hue. This is your chance to capture not just the scene, but the feeling – the tranquility, the crisp mountain air, the peace that washes over you.

Escape the Noise, Embrace the Moment

In today's frenetic world, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. We rush from one thing to the next, rarely taking the time to savor the present moment. This retreat offers you the chance to break free from that cycle and reconnect with yourself through the power of mindful photography.

Why Mindfulness and Photography?

The practice of mindfulness encourages us to pay attention to the present moment, without judgment. Photography, on the other hand, allows us to notice the exquisite details of the world around us in a fresh light. When we combine these two practices, something remarkable happens. We become more present, attuned to the sights, sounds, and sensations of our environment. We start to see the world with fresh eyes, capturing moments of wonder and beauty that we might otherwise miss.

Benefits of the Retreat

This retreat is designed for you if:

• You yearn for peace and quiet in a world that feels increasingly chaotic.

• You want to learn how to slow down and savor the moment.

• You're interested in developing your photography skills in a beautiful and inspiring setting.

• You feel the need to turn off the noise and reconnect with yourself.

Our Promise to You

We understand that everyone's needs are different. That's why we offer a personalized experience with a small group size, ensuring you receive plenty of individual attention from Mattia and Paul, both experienced photographers who use mindfulness and a slow process to lead them in their creativity.

During your photography retreat with us you will learn to

• Quiet your mind and cultivate inner peace.

• Sharpen your observation skills and see the world with fresh eyes.

• Develop your creativity and express yourself through photography.

• Connect with nature and appreciate its beauty.

• Return home feeling refreshed, inspired, and with a renewed sense of purpose.

A photographers paradise nestled in the foothills of the Italian Alps, Lake Garda offers endless opportunities to capture stunning images. From quaint villages and historic castles to breathtaking mountain vistas and crystal-clear waters.

Introducing Mattia Zaldini

Born in Verona to a family of artists, musicians, painters, singers, hair stylists and photographers, Mattia has been surrounded by the creative arts since birth.

Initially self-taught, he learned from and was inspired the valuable advice of those around him, and later went on to participate in numerous courses, finally graduating from the prestigious "New York Institute of Photography”.

Photographically speaking, his work goes against the frenetic pace that surrounds us day after day. For Mattia, calmness is essential in photography, only by achieving stillness in the presence of his subject can he convey the emotions he experiences as he makes his sought after fine art images.

Mattia has been a leader in prestigious photography workshops overseas and is involved in organising them in his home country, Italy, ranging from Venice (a city where he often works), Lake Garda (his homeland), and the beloved Dolomites.

Mattia’s work has been recognised by both Leica - who used one of his images in a global advertising campaign and Hasselblad. He has a love of all things English, including a collection of lovingly restored vintage Land Rovers.

Fitness level:
A moderate level of fitness will certainly help you to enjoy your experience of the workshop.