Dean Allan Photography Reviews

Greg Ruddell 2026.07.04

     

Wonderful Week in Shetland Spent a wonderful week on Shetland in May. We saw all four seasons in a matter of hours on a couple of occasions but all part of the experience! It gives you an appreciation for the rugged beauty of the land and sea and for the spirit of the people who live on the islands. Dean is an excellent guide and teacher. All the locations were fantastic and we had lots of input into the schedule. I learned a lot and as I work through the pictures from the week I can see the improvements over the course of the week. Accommodations were wonder and Sally took great care of us through the week. Definitely won't be my last workshop with Dean & Sally!
Date of experience: 09 May, 2026

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Reply from Dean Allan Photography 2026.07.05

Hi Greg - Thank you so much for your lovely words. I'm delighted you enjoyed your week in Shetland. The islands certainly have a habit of delivering all four seasons in a single day, but as you discovered, that's all part of their charm and what makes them such a special place to photograph.
It was a real pleasure spending the week with you, and I'm especially pleased to hear you could see your photography developing as the workshop progressed. That sense of growth and confidence is one of the most rewarding parts of teaching.
Sally and I really appreciate your kind comments about the accommodation and hospitality. We both work hard to create an experience that's as enjoyable off the camera as it is behind it.
Thank you again for taking the time to leave such thoughtful feedback. We look forward to welcoming you back on another adventure before too long!
Dean

Mike Farrance 2026.06.02

     

The benefit of a Dean Allan workshop is I can switch off from having to think about organising a week away including the what, how, when and where for all locations. Dean does it all. A great week to think only about photography, make new friends, eat well and relax. A week in Orkney provided great landscape, nature and environmental photography. There was no rigid timetable and the week flexed around individual requirements and weather conditions. Sea stacks, puffins and lighthouses could be the highlights, but in reality every location provided opportunities for great photographs. This is a customer focussed experience with no enforced agenda or script from Dean.

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Reply from Dean Allan Photography 2026.06.03

Hi Mike....Thank you so much for such a thoughtful and detailed review. It really means a great deal to hear that the workshop allowed you to completely switch off from the usual stresses of travel and simply immerse yourself in photography, relaxation and good company — that is exactly the experience I try to create on every trip.
Orkney is such a wonderfully diverse place photographically, from dramatic sea stacks and rugged coastlines to puffins, lighthouses and constantly changing light, so I’m delighted you enjoyed the variety of opportunities throughout the week. One of the things I value most is keeping the workshops flexible and responsive to both the weather and the needs of the group, rather than following a rigid timetable, so it’s lovely to hear that approach came across during your time there.
Thank you again for your kind words and for being such great company throughout the trip. I hope we’ll have the opportunity to photograph together again somewhere in the Scottish Highlands and Islands very soon. Dean

Stephen Smith 2026.05.18

     

Just returned from a great trip to the Shetland Islands with Dean (and Sally). It was a great trip of a small group going to some stunning locations that aren’t often photographed and all over social media. Dean was flexible with his schedule and adapted to the interests of each of the group. Westerwick was probably th highlight along with Hernaness overlooking Muckle Flugga The accommodation was very comfortable and Sally kept us very well fed and watered. I’m just a bit heavier coming back!

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Reply from Dean Allan Photography 2026.05.18

Hi Steve - Thank you so much for your kind words — it was an absolute pleasure having you along with us in Shetland!

I’m really glad you enjoyed the balance of stunning locations, flexibility, and exploring places a little off the usual photography trail. Westerwick and Hermaness on the island of Unst are certainly special spots, and seeing Muckle Flugga in those conditions is always memorable. Well done for going right to the end and being the most northerly person in the UK for a few minutes.

Sally will be especially pleased to hear the catering received such praise — although we can’t take responsibility for the extra pounds coming home - they were very small plates!

Thanks again for joining us and for being such great company throughout the trip - you brought tremendous value to the week.

I hope we’ll photograph together again very soon.

Dean

Helen Barry 2026.05.18

     

Torridon trip was fantastic- beautiful landscape and photo opportunities (thanks Dean). Great accommodation with excellent food (thanks Sally) and great company (it’s been a long time since I’ve laughed so much)

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Reply from Dean Allan Photography 2026.03.31

Hi Helen - Thank you so much for your kind words—it really means a lot!
March certainly gave us a proper taste of the Small Isles’ wilder side, but I’m glad the adventure added to the experience rather than taking away from it. The ever-changing conditions are all part of what makes this location so special (and so rewarding photographically!).
I’m delighted you enjoyed the location, food, and company—and that the workshop delivered plenty of variety and inspiration. And yes, that lodge view is hard to beat… though I’ll keep trying to find something even better!
Thanks again for joining me, and I look forward to seeing you next month in Shetland. Dean

Barry Hawkins 2026.04.28

     

Recently returned from the Hebridean workshop with Dean Allan. Our accommodation was first class and we were treated to some fine food throughout our stay. Dean was excellent, finding a wide range of places to photograph, and giving us useful tips to get the best out of Each setting even in less than perfect weather conditions. I would certainly book on other workshops with him in the future!

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Reply from Dean Allan Photography 2026.05.18

Hi Barry
Thank you so much for the wonderful feedback. It was a real pleasure having you along on the Hebridean workshop.

I’m delighted you enjoyed both the accommodation and Sally’s cooking — she’ll be very pleased to hear that!

The weather certainly kept us on our toes at times, but I’m glad we were still able to make the most of the conditions and come away with a varied set of images from across the islands.

Thank you again for your company and enthusiasm throughout the trip. I’d be delighted to welcome you on another workshop in the future.

Best Regards - Dean

Jean-Luc Duchemin 2026.04.23

     

Another great workshop with Dean! This was the seventh one and I keep learning from him and enjoying the way things are organized throughout the week. There will be an eighth one!

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Reply from Dean Allan Photography 2026.04.23

Hi Jean-Luc - Thank you so much for your continued support—it really means a lot! I’m glad you’re still finding value in each workshop and enjoying the structure. Looking forward to having you at the eighth one! See you in Assynt - Dean

Pamela Rixon 2026.04.20

     

I loved both the recent workshops I did with Dean. But the workshop to the outer Hebrides was extra special because the group worked so well making it all the more enjoyable. I loved that Dean never rushes me and has the utmost patience and excellent teaching skills. I really learnt a lot that I can apply to my approach to photography especially composition and long exposures. The organisation accommodation and catering were all excellent. I really am missing Sally’ meals. Thankyou Sally too for allowing me extra cups of tea at odd times. The dogs were a bonus and made it a very homely experience. I am already looking forward to joining you again.

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Reply from Dean Allan Photography 2026.04.21

Hi Pam
Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful feedback—it truly means a lot.
I’m delighted to hear how much you enjoyed both workshops, and especially that the Outer Hebrides trip felt so special. It really was a wonderful group, and I agree that the atmosphere made it all the more memorable.
I’m so pleased you felt supported throughout—helping you take your time and build confidence in your photography is exactly what I aim for. It’s fantastic to hear that you’re already applying what you learned, particularly with composition and long exposures.
Sally will be absolutely thrilled to hear your comments about the meals (and the extra cups of tea!)—I’ll be sure to pass that along. And yes, the dogs always enjoy making new friends too!
It would be a real pleasure to welcome you along again in the future. I’m already looking forward to it.
Warmest thanks again,
Dean

Ian Seller 2026.04.13

     

I spent an excellent day recently in Torridon with Dean on a 1-2-1 workshop. The experience was worth every penny. He guided me to some great locations as well as gently prodding me to improve my technical and compositional skills. A most sociable and enjoyable day. Many thanks. Ian Seller

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Reply from Dean Allan Photography 2026.04.15

Hi Ian,
Thank you so much for your kind words—it really means a lot. I’m delighted to hear you enjoyed our day in Torridon and found the workshop worthwhile.
It was a pleasure spending the day with you, and I’m glad the locations and guidance helped you develop both technically and creatively. You approached everything with great enthusiasm, which made the experience all the more enjoyable from my side too.
I hope you’re pleased with the images you captured, and I’d love to see how you continue to develop your work. Hopefully we’ll get the chance to shoot together again in the future.
All the very best,
Dean

Roberta Parkin 2026.04.06

     

The small Islands tour offered the most spectacular photographic opportunities and my learning curve with Dean was fast and furious. He has an extraordinary talent for recognising what you need to learn and has a calm but determined energy. Being in the very rugged and relatively untouched landscape that this trip offered was quite magical and the group I think absorbed this magic and worked very well on a close level. The accommodation was perfect and fitting, and as a first (and not last) experience with Dean, I don"t think I could have been luckier.

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Reply from Dean Allan Photography 2026.04.06

Hi Roberta....Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful words. It was a real pleasure to share the Small Islands with you—it's a place that never fails to inspire, and I’m so glad it offered you such rich photographic opportunities.
I’m especially pleased to hear that you found the learning experience both engaging and rewarding—that balance is always something I strive for. The group dynamic on this trip really was something special, and I agree that the landscape has a way of bringing people together in a unique way.
I’m delighted this was such a positive first experience for you, and I’d love to welcome you along on another adventure in the future. Dean

Wes Pettus 2026.04.03

     

I recently went on the Isle of Skye workshop with Dean Allan. It was this January (2026), so the weather offered very cold, wet and icy challenges. Dean is a very friendly and personable guide. He would get a feel for your photography skills and offer suggestions if needed, or stand back and let you carry on. He was very extensive in his knowledge of the places we visited, and would scout out some choice compositions for us. I made some wonderful images I would'nt have been able to get on own or on family holiday. I compared the value of what Dean offered to several other similar workshop options by other photographers. I found that the workshop I took was about twice as long and about half the price per day as many of the other workshops. Also, the workshop I took had more included amenities that were offered. We had a lively group of participants and I made some new friends. I would highly recommend Dean's workshops for photographers at any level of experience. I can't wait to join another one of his workshops in the near future! Thanks Dean! Cheers! Wes Pettus

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Reply from Dean Allan Photography 2026.04.04

Thank you so much, Wes — I really appreciate you taking the time to share such thoughtful feedback.
The Isle of Skye in January certainly gave us some proper Highland conditions, so I’m glad you embraced the challenge and came away with images you’re proud of. It was a pleasure working with you and seeing how you approached each location.
I always aim to strike that balance between guidance and creative freedom, so it’s great to hear that worked well for you. And I couldn’t agree more — the group dynamic really made the experience even more enjoyable.
I’m delighted you found value in the workshop, and it would be fantastic to have you join another one in the future. There are plenty more locations (and adventures!) to explore.
Thanks again, Wes — and keep shooting!
Dean

Tony Tomlinson 2026.04.03

     

I have just returned from a Isle of Harris and Lewis workshop with Dean. His knowledge of the islands was superb, with our daily schedules been determined by the days weather forecast. Dean delivers his workshop in a friendly and welcoming manner. He provides an oversight of the week on the first day, and regularly checked with us if we needed any guidance or advice. It is very obvious that Dean has a wealth of photography knowledge which is expressed in a easy going manner. We stayed in two houses on the Isle of Harris, these were very comfortable, easily large enough for us all and very well maintained. All our food was home cooked by Sally who done a sterling job keeping us fed during the week with a daily breakfast, packed lunch and dinner, the food was delicious and you received substantial portions. Dean drove us from location to location during the week, so no transport issues here. Was the workshop worth the expense, most definitely, I would highly recommend anyone attending one of Deans workshops, you will gain so much from it. An excellent week's photography on the Isle of Harris and Lewis

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Reply from Dean Allan Photography 2026.05.18

Hi Tony
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a thoughtful and detailed review. It was an absolute pleasure having you along on the Harris and Lewis workshop.

I’m really pleased you enjoyed both the photography experience and the comfortable accommodation. The islands always offer something special, and being able to adapt each day around the weather helps us make the very best of the conditions we’re given.

Your kind comments about my approach and guidance are greatly appreciated. I always want the workshops to feel relaxed, friendly, and supportive, whatever level of experience people arrive with.

Sally will also be delighted to hear your praise for the food — she certainly works hard to keep everyone well fed throughout the week!

Thank you again for your recommendation and for being such great company during the workshop. I’m very glad you found the trip worthwhile, and I hope we’ll have the chance to photograph together again in the future.

Best Regards - Dean

Logan Steele 2026.03.31

     

Dean, thank you for a fantastic immersive adventure on the Sma Isles from wild seascapes, the wildlife and of course the brilliant photo opportunities. After a wild day it was great to return to Gallanach Lodge where the accomodation and food were outstanding. I particularly enjoyed sitting with a dram in the lounge looking across the wild seas to Rum. My favourite photo location was on Laig beach on Rum, outstanding. Thank you. Logan.

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Reply from Dean Allan Photography 2026.03.31

Thank you so much, Logan—I really appreciate your kind words - and thank you for including some of your images.
I’m delighted you enjoyed the full Small Isles experience, from the wild seascapes and wildlife through to those memorable photography moments. It’s great to hear Gallanach Lodge hit the mark too—there’s something pretty special about unwinding there with a dram while watching the ever-changing view across to Rum.
Laig Bay is a favourite of mine as well—when it all comes together, it’s a truly outstanding location.
Thanks again for joining me on the workshop, Logan. It was a real pleasure having you along, and I hope to see you on another adventure soon! Dean

Christine and Martin Cooke 2026.03.29

     

What a photographic adventure! Fantastic landscape photography opportunities on all four of the Small Isles, each of them having their own charm and character. Our base on Muck was exceptional, great food and accommodation with a brilliant landscape looking towards Rum on your doorstep. The whole workshop was very well organised by Dean. The logistics of visiting 4 separate islands, the transport of all your luggage, the communication and involvement of the whole workshop in the day’s activities was spot on. Honestly can’t fault this workshop, highly recommend.

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Reply from Dean Allan Photography 2026.03.31

Hi Martin - Thank you so much for such a fantastic review!
I’m really pleased you enjoyed exploring all four of the Small Isles—each one truly does have its own unique character, and it’s great to hear that came across in the experience. Muck makes a pretty special base, especially with those ever-changing views over to Rum right on our doorstep.
I’m especially glad the organisation and logistics worked seamlessly for you—coordinating multiple islands is always a bit of an adventure behind the scenes, so it means a lot that it felt smooth and well-paced throughout.
Thanks again for your kind words and recommendation—it was a real pleasure having you along, and I hope to see you on another adventure soon!

Frank Collins 2026.03.03

     

Fantastic week in Assynt. The weather presented us with just about every climatic option in the book but skilful leadership for Dean ensured we maximised the opportunities this presented and were in the right place at the right moment for some magical photographic conditions and images. Dean and Sally's hospitality and the comfort and warmth of the Lodge and the end of the day rounded off a truly special experience in the magic of the vast, stunning wilderness that is the far north west of Scotland

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Reply from Dean Allan Photography 2026.03.04

Hi Frank -Thank you so much for your kind words. It was a real pleasure to spend the week in Assynt with you. The weather certainly gave us the full Scottish experience, but I’m glad we were able to make the most of it and capture some special moments.
Sally and I are delighted you enjoyed the stay at the Lodge as well — it means a lot to know you felt comfortable and welcomed after our days out in the landscape.
Assynt is a truly magical place, and it was great to share it with such an enthusiastic group. I hope the photographs bring back many good memories of the week.
All the very best,
Dean

ros alcock 2026.02.03

     

I have recently returned from an enjoyable week in Harris and Lewis with Dean. There was always a clear plan for our days but when there was bad weather Dean's knowledge of the Islands meant we could adapt and make the most of the conditions and carry on shooting. I feel we saw the best of both Islands for photography with Dean on hand for advice when needed. Our accommodation was in a stunning spot with Sally providing delicious food all week. I hope to be on another workshop soon.

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Reply from Dean Allan Photography 2026.02.04

Thank you so much for taking the time to send this Ros—it really means a lot.
I thoroughly enjoyed the week with you and the others, and I’m delighted you felt we were able to adapt well to the conditions and still experience the best of Harris and Lewis for photography. The islands always have something special to offer, whatever the weather, and it was great to share that with you.
I’ll be sure to pass your kind words on to Sally—she’ll be thrilled. I’d be delighted to have you join me again on another workshop in the future.
All the very best,
Dean

Úna White 2026.02.01

     

Just spent the most wonderful week on a Harris & Lewis photography workshop with Dean and I've no doubt all participants have come away with some amazing photographs. Dean kept constant check on the weather conditions, tide times etc to ensure we experienced every location (iconic ones as well as hidden gems) at their photographic best. All participants received help and guidance out in the field and Dean also gave some editing sessions in the evening. Staying in cottages rather than a hotel was cosy and comfortable and Sally's home cooked meals every evening were delicious, not forgetting the excellent choices on the breakfast and packed lunch menus. We certainly did not go hungry! Based on my experience on Harris & Lewis, I've absolutely no hesitation in recommending a Dean Allan photography workshop. I'll definitely be booking another one.

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Reply from Dean Allan Photography 2026.02.01

Hi Una
Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a generous and detailed review. It was a real pleasure having you on the Harris & Lewis workshop, and I’m delighted to hear you came away with images you’re proud of.
We were very fortunate with the conditions, and I’m glad the planning around weather, tides, and locations paid off so everyone could experience the islands at their very best—both the iconic spots and a few quieter gems. It’s also great to hear the field guidance and evening editing sessions were helpful.
I’ll be sure to pass your kind words on to Sally—she’ll be thrilled to know her cooking and the cottage setup added to the experience (and that no one went hungry!).
Thank you again for the recommendation. I’m delighted that you have booked up to come away with us again. You'll be made to fee very welcome.

Warm regards,
Dean

Lee Williams 2026.01.01

     

A fantastic landscape photography workshop in Loch Assynt. Stunning locations combined with Dean's vast local knowledge meant that we were always in the right place at the right time. I came away inspired more confident and with some of my best images to date. Together with the first class accomodations and Sally's catering ....highly recommended.👍👍👍

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Reply from Dean Allan Photography 2026.01.02

HiLee....Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! I’m thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the workshop and that the locations, local knowledge, and timing helped you capture some of your best images. It’s always fantastic to see participants leave inspired and more confident in their photography.
Sally and I really appreciate your kind words about the accommodations and catering as well—it means a lot. We both look forward to seeing you return to Assynt later this year.
Best regards,
Dean

Sheelagh Kay 2025.11.25

     

Brilliant again! Once again Dean delivered an exceptional workshop. I am a returning customer and over the last couple of years I'd say Dean has delivered some wonderful experiences in Scotland. Each workshop improves on the last one. Dean is very experienced in getting the trip just right. Accomodation, locations, ability to adjust to the weather and road conditions, knowing when to help or just leave you to it. The adjacent houses we had on this Harris trip were in a perfect location, close to the main beaches. They were warm and comfortable and Sally's cooking and packed lunches were perfect. The small group bonded well and we had some good laughs from beginning to end. Thank you both again for a wonderful trip.
Date of experience: 15 November, 2025

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Reply from Dean Allan Photography 2025.11.30

Hi Sheelagh - Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! It means a great deal, especially coming from a returning guest. I’m delighted to hear that each workshop has continued to build on the last and that you’ve enjoyed the experience, locations, and planning that go into each trip.
Harris truly is a special place, and I’m glad the accommodation and proximity to the beaches helped make the week even more enjoyable. Sally is thrilled to hear her cooking and lunches hit the mark too! We couldn’t have asked for a better group—your enthusiasm, flexibility, and good humour made the trip memorable from start to finish.
Thank you again for your trust and for joining us on another adventure. I look forwarded to welcoming you back on a future workshop! Dean

Richard Peace 2025.11.22

     

A great workshop on Harris! I have no hesitation in giving the Harris workshop with Dean 5 stars. I was attracted to book by the quality and style of Dean’s images I had seen online, but of course that ingredient is only a small part of what makes a good workshop. Dean was down to earth, generous with his knowledge, supportive with image taking when needed and at arm’s length when not, flexible to the weather and the whims of the group, and above all good company. Sally’s catering was fabulous - plentiful, wholesome and tasty, all served up with a smile and generosity. Both Sally and Dean cared about the group‘s experience. The accommodation was comfortable, its location on the west coast of Harris is a premium location. All in all a great experience.
Date of experience: 22 November, 2025

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Reply from Dean Allan Photography 2025.11.24

Thank you so much for your generous and thoughtful feedback. It was an absolute pleasure having you on the Harris workshop. I’m delighted that the balance of guidance, space, and flexibility worked well for you, and that the changing weather and group dynamics added to the experience rather than detracting from it.
Sally is thrilled to hear your kind words about her cooking and hospitality. We’re also really pleased that you enjoyed the accommodation and its location; Harris is a special place, and being based on the west coast really does make exploring it all the more rewarding.
Thank you again for joining us and for taking the time to share such a detailed review. We truly appreciate it, and we hope to welcome you back on another adventure in the future.
Warmest regards,
Dean & Sally

Bridget Codrington 2025.11.12

     

I had a very enjoyable time with Dean and 3 others in the Isles of Harris and Lewis. The weather was challenging, even by Outer Hebrides standards, but Dean managed this very well by choosing suitable locations on the hoof as the forecast changed. Our day started and finished with Sally’s delicious catering and with the addition of a packed lunch made for us each day, we were extremely well nourished. Apart from being out and about, Dean gave us a processing session one afternoon with some great tips and tricks, which was very helpful. All in all, this was a congenial week spent in a beautiful location with a great bunch of like-minded folk, being royally looked after by Dean and Sally and I thoroughly recommend a tour with Dean if you wish to photograph these wild and beautiful islands (don’t forget to pack some wellies though!).

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Reply from Dean Allan Photography 2025.11.13

Hi Bridget
Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! I’m delighted to hear you enjoyed your time exploring Harris and Lewis, even with the ever-changing Hebridean weather. It was a pleasure to adapt and make the most of each day with such a great group.
I’m really pleased you found the processing session helpful, and Sally will be thrilled to know her catering — from hearty breakfasts to packed lunches and evening meals — helped keep everyone well nourished throughout the week.
It was a truly enjoyable trip with fantastic company. We both really appreciate your kind words and recommendation, and we hope to welcome you back for another adventure soon.