You’ll need quite a bit of experience for this one! A few years ago, we featured photographer Jürg Kaufmann’s work. His images of waves are works of art that remind us of dreamy Van Gogh Paintings surrounded by real life. This November, he’s teaching a Big Waves Photography Workshop in Nazaré, Portugal. This three-day intensive experience is led by two of the world’s renowned photographers. Both Maria Fernanda Bastidas and Jürg Kaufmann offer a unique blend of fine art and action photography set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean’s towering waves. Here’s what you need to know to participate.
To register for this workshop, please visit CropFactory’s website and see more.
Exclusive Big Waves Photography Workshop in Nazaré, Portugal Workshop Description
You’ve probably got a lot of questions about this workshop. So here’s what you need to know for the big waves photography workshop.
What You Will Learn at the Big Waves Photography Workshop
- The art of visualizing and capturing big wave photography, blending action with the aesthetic of fine art.
- Understanding light, composition, and camera settings in challenging conditions.
- Developing your style and vision in photography.
- Mental preparedness and coaching for shooting in unique environments such as lighthouse, rocks, beach, and team bases of the pro-big wave surfers.
- Hands-on sessions in various settings, including exclusive shooting opportunities at the surfer’s base and an evening dedicated to high-end portrait photography.
- Insights into advanced post-production techniques that bring your vision to life.




Special Highlights of the Big Waves Photography Workshop
- Intimate setting with a maximum of 10 participants, ensuring personalized coaching and feedback.
- Networking opportunities with professional surfers
- Group dinner at a top local fish restaurant to immerse yourself in the local culture and cuisine.
- Three days in an upper-class hotel and three nights in accommodations that allow you to live and breathe the ocean’s majesty, even outside of workshop hours.
Truly an in-depth experience that will transform you as a photographic artist and is designed to deepen your connection to nature, action, and fine art photography.
Each day will be filled with practical shooting sessions, personalized critiques, and enlightening discussions on visual storytelling, ensuring an immersive learning experience.
Truly an in-depth experience that will enrich and transform you as a photographer.
Who Should Attend the Big Waves Photography Workshop
Serious photographers: The Big Waves Photography workshop is designed for serious photographers who are ready to push their boundaries and invest in becoming world-class in fine art or action photography. Participants should be comfortable with their equipment and adaptable to different lighting conditions. Whether you are looking to refine your skills, define your style, or capture breathtaking photos that stand out, this workshop offers the guidance, expertise, and environment to achieve it.
Our goal is for each participant to go back home with a series of exceptional photographs, and with a deepened understanding of big-wave photography and their personal style. This is more than a workshop; it’s a journey toward mastering the art of big-wave photography.
We are currently evaluating the possibility of offering on water shooting from a jetski driven by the best drivers in the world in the waves of Nazare, depending on the current sea state and physical condition of the participant. More information & Costs will follow



Languages
The workshop will be held in English We speak the following languages: English, German, Spanish, Italian and French
Meeting Point
11/14/2024 at Hotel Miramar, Nazaré, Portugal
Required Participation Experience
Experienced Photographers: Participants need to already have some photographic level and know the ins and outs of their photographic equipment. This workshop requires a certain level of fitness. To best be participating in this workshop you should be able to walk confidently for a few hours/day.
What Participants Must Bring
Cameras & Lenses Equipment: Please bring your standard photography equipment. In Nazaré, you’ll have the opportunity to shoot with a range of lenses from wide-angle to long lenses.
Recommended lenses for DSLR 35mm cameras include:
- 24-70mm for versatility
- 70-200mm for tighter shots
- Long lens options, such as a 150-600mm, which I find very useful in Nazaré.
- Tripod: A sturdy tripod is beneficial, especially when using long lenses, to ensure stability and sharpness in windy conditions.
Our Equipment:
- Maria: Nikon, SPL Housing
- Jürg: Nikon, Fuji GFX, Acquatech, Sirui
Recommended Clothing:
- Weather Conditions: Nazaré in November experiences windy and humid conditions with temperatures typically ranging from 5°C to 15°C.
- Warm Layers: Ensure you have enough layering options to adjust to varying temperatures throughout the day.
- Goretex Jacket: A waterproof, breathable jacket will keep you comfortable and dry.
- Sturdy Footwear: Good quality walking shoes are essential for navigating the terrain at Praia Do Norte comfortably and safely.
To register for this workshop, please visit CropFactory’s website and see more.
