Wild filming with Winter Waves at Birsay, Orkney

Capturing the power of winter waves at Birsay Cliffs: behind the scenes of a photography retreat

This is the second in my series of behind-the-scenes videos, offering a glimpse into the breathtaking Quiet Landscapes photography retreat with Margaret Soraya and Paul Sanders. Filmed along the dramatic Birsay Cliffs in Orkney, this short video showcases the participants in action and highlights the stunning photographs they capture during the retreat.

Behind the Photographer: Immersing in the Landscape

In this video, you’ll see @jantraveller in the midst of photographing the powerful waves crashing against the cliffs, creating intricate patterns that draw you in. A perfectly placed sea bird adds to the magic of the shot, showing the patience and skill required to capture such moments. This retreat gives photographers the space to reflect and experiment with their creativity in a supportive, peaceful environment.

A powerful wave creating a spray arc with birds flying nearby over the sea

Why Birsay Cliffs?

Birsay Cliffs, located on the northwest coast of Orkney, offer a rugged, windswept beauty that’s perfect for photographers and filmmakers alike. The area is known for its dramatic cliffs, powerful Atlantic waves, and abundant wildlife, including seabirds like puffins and fulmars. The ever-changing light and weather conditions make it a captivating spot for landscape photography, especially during winter when the waves are at their wildest.

Mixing DSLR and Smartphone Footage

For this video, I used both my DSLR and smartphone, blending high-quality footage with the accessibility and spontaneity of mobile videography. If you’re a workshop organiser, freelancer, or business looking for unique social media content—whether it’s video, photos, or behind-the-scenes footage—reach out! I’m available for projects anywhere, from Orkney to wherever your vision takes you.

Music: Licensed via Audiio – Ivan Grigorashchuk, Wind Of Mountains_Waves

If you’re interested in attending future creative retreats, head to Margaret Soraya’s website for more info.