Workshop Terms and Conditions

1. Registration and Payment
  • A deposit is required at the time of registration to secure your spot. Deposits are non-transferable between tours/workshops. 
  • Full payment is due 6-9 months prior to the workshop start date unless otherwise noted. A specific date is provided for each tour/workshop. Failure to complete the full payment by the given date will result in the forfeiture of your reservation. 
  • Payments can be made via credit or debit card on this website. If you require alternative arrangements (e.g., wire transfer), please contact me in advance.

2. Cancellation and Refund Policy

  • Cancellation by participants:
    • Deposit payments: Unless otherwise specified for individual trips, the deposit is refundable up until final arrangements are made with local providers or a date specified by the tour leader and provided in the tour/workshop details. If full payment is not received by the specified due date, the organizer may cancel the reservation with immediate effect and register a new candidate from the waitlist or other sources. If a deposit payment was made but no refund was requested, and full payment is not received by the due date, the deposit payment remains non-refundable until an alternative participant is identified and successfully completes all payments. If refunded based on the aforementioned conditions, an administrative fee of 15% of the original deposit amount will be withheld from the refund.
    • Remaining balance payments: Payments of the remaining balance, after an initial deposit payment, are also refundable up until the due date given in the tour/workshop details. The same refund policy as specified above applies with regards to conditions for a potential refund and administrative fees withheld in case a refund is possible. 
  • Cancellation by the organizer: In the event that the workshop is canceled due to unforeseen circumstances, including but not limited to insufficient participation or illness/incapacitation of the organizer, participants will receive a refund of payments made excluding non-recoverable costs of local arrangements that have already been made and are non-recoverable. The organizer is not responsible for any non-refundable travel or accommodation expenses incurred by the participant in this scenario. 

3. Travel Insurance

  • Comprehensive travel insurance is required, covering trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and evacuation. For workshops held in remote areas, medical evacuation insurance is mandatory. If any minimum amounts apply, this will be specified in each tour/workshop detail. It is the participant's responsibility to ensure coverage for equipment loss, trip delays, and other travel-related risks. I strongly recommend trip cancellation insurance, and for extra peace of mind a policy that includes "cancel for any reason" coverage. 

4. Health, Safety, and Fitness Requirements

  • Participants are required to be in good health and capable of handling physical activities such as hiking on uneven terrain and carrying camera gear. If necessary, a doctor’s note may be requested to confirm fitness for participation. Should the organizer deem a participant physically unfit, they may be asked to withdraw, with any costs incurred being the participant's responsibility.

5. Weather, Wildlife, and Safety Conditions

  • Unpredictable factors such as weather, wildlife behavior, natural disasters, strikes, or other local safety issues may result in partial or full cancellation of activities. No refunds will be provided for such cancellations, as these events are beyond the control of the organizer. Participants must remain flexible and understand that safety will always be prioritized.

6. Rooming and Accommodations

  • Workshops are generally based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted. If you prefer a single room, or if a same-gender roommate is not available, you will be responsible for paying the single supplement fee. Room requests must be made at the time of booking and are subject to availability.

7. Code of Conduct

  • All participants are expected to behave respectfully toward others and the environment. Any aggressive or disruptive behavior may result in removal from the workshop without a refund. Participants must adhere to Leave No Trace principles to ensure the protection of wildlife and natural habitats.

8. Use of Photographs and Likeness

  • The organizer may use photographs or videos taken during the workshop for promotional purposes. By attending, you consent to the use of your image unless you notify the organizer otherwise at the start of the workshop.

9. Liability and Assumption of Risk

  • By registering for the workshop, you agree to sign a liability waiver, which releases the organizer from any responsibility for personal injury, property damage, or loss that may occur during the workshop. Outdoor photography, wildlife interactions, and travel carry inherent risks, and participants assume full responsibility for their safety.

10. Photography Instruction

  • Workshops provide in-the-field instruction and critique sessions. These are not intended as beginner photography courses. Participants are expected to have a basic understanding of their camera and equipment. If additional assistance is needed, please contact the organizer in advance to ensure the workshop is a good fit.

11. Non-Photographer Companions

  • Non-photographer companions are welcome to join, provided there is space, at full workshop cost. Please be aware that photography will remain the primary focus of the trip.

12. Third-Party Services

  • The workshop may rely on third-party service providers (e.g., accommodations, transportation). The organizer is not responsible for any issues that arise with these services. Disputes or problems must be addressed directly with the provider.