This Wednesday, I’m heading back to a place that left a lasting impression on me: the South of France. Last summer, before heading to Paris to cover the Olympics, I spent a week exploring Provence. I barely scratched the surface — but even that brief taste was enough to know I’d be coming back. There’s something about the golden light, the timeless villages, the relaxed rhythm of the region that stays with you. It did with me.

Villages of South of France Photography workshop — Photo by Partrice Aguilar

Lavender fields in Provence for a phtography workshop — Photo by Partrice Aguilar

Detail of Bee on lavender in the fields of Provence — Photo by Partrice Aguilar

This time, I return with purpose — not just for myself and not just on assignment, but to lead a sold-out photography workshop with a group of ten talented photographers. Over the course of a week, we’ll explore some of the most iconic and visually rich subjects in Europe: the wild white horses of the Camargue, elegant pink flamingos in the wetlands, and the lavender fields of Provence — which, incredibly, I didn’t get to see on my last trip. That’s part of what drew me back.

The Camargue will also be a first for me — a region I’ve long wanted to photograph, with its dramatic salt flats, roaming horses, and sense of wild freedom. I’ve seen the images for years: white horses charging through water, manes flying in the wind. Soon, I’ll be there in person, guiding our group through this unique landscape with cameras ready at golden hour.

White horses of Camargue run in the Water — Photo by Partrice Aguilar

White Horses of Camargue Play in the water — Photo by Partrice Aguilar

But this workshop is more than a checklist of beautiful locations. It’s about slowing down and fully immersing ourselves in the experience — café au lait in the morning, rosé in the evening, time spent connecting over our shared passion for photography. These trips are about the moments between the photos, too — the conversations, the laughter, the discoveries.

After decades of covering some of the biggest national and international events — from the Olympics to major wildlife festivals and cultural moments — I can honestly say that leading photography workshops offers a different kind of gratification. Sure, there’s excitement in capturing the defining moments on a global stage, but teaching and guiding a small group allows me to give back in a more personal, lasting way.

South of France Pink Flamingos Photo adventure — Photo by Partrice Aguilar

Watching photographers grow, helping them see their surroundings through fresh eyes, and sharing not just technical skills but a deeper appreciation for storytelling — that’s deeply rewarding. Each workshop becomes a shared journey where I learn just as much from the participants as they do from me. It’s a creative exchange, a community built around a common passion.

I can’t wait to share the images and stories from this trip when I get back — both mine and those of the incredible photographers I’ll be leading. There’s something special about bringing a piece of the South of France home through photos that capture its wild beauty and quiet moments.

For more information on my photography workshops, feel free to reach out to me directly at jeff@swingmanphoto.com or visit my workshop page to explore upcoming adventures and dont forget to check out my affiliate page for you gear needs.

Whispers of lavender,white angels, and pink flamingos

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