WITH RENÉ VAN BAKEL IN LA VERSILIA/TUSCANY
THEME OF THIS WORKSHOP: ART, ARTISTS & ARTISANS
Pleasantly learn how to visualize a Photo Story using your camera with multiple award-winning photographer and book author René van Bakel, whose work has been published in major global media like National Geographic, the New York Times, Vogue and many more.
Workshop languages: EN - DE - NL - IT (according to the majority of the group we will select a main language). All Levels are welcome!
Next dates: To be announced
Pleasantly learn how to visualize a Photo Story using your camera with multiple award-winning photographer and book author René van Bakel, whose work has been published in major global media like National Geographic, the New York Times, Vogue and many more.
Workshop languages: EN - DE - NL - IT (according to the majority of the group we will select a main language). All Levels are welcome!
Next dates: To be announced
Join René for an inspiring week full of emotions, Tuscan food, and wines. During this week we will be visiting and meeting artists at work in their studios, as well as treading in the footsteps of old masters like Puccini, Michelangelo, Carducci, Henry Moore and the old rulers (and art-lovers!) of Tuscany: de Medici. There is a good reason why they chose La Versilia as their domicile, because next to it’s daily gourmet experience, this Tuscan region features just about everything an artist needs and which we will explore such as the marble quarries, discovered by Michelangelo, the famous sculpting studios of the region, the Conservatorium in Lucca and the foundry where contemporary grand master Fernando Botero has his bronze sculptures poured into their molds. Another highlight will be our visit to a bespoke yacht building Cantière in Viareggio and the subsequent mundane life at the town's beautiful seaside promenade. Great sculptors need specialist tools. To see how these are created, we will head into the mountains of Alta Versilia (high Versilia) to see how at the Milani blacksmith workshop, sculpting tools like chisels and rasps are created, all by hand, already since many generations! Besides, since we are so close to the sea, we will head for a relaxing break at the beach. To Bagno Marco, known for its familiar atmosphere and extremely fresh gourmet fish food, created by cook Rosa. Last but not least, all along the way we will be able to take in the atmosphere of both romantic villages and seaside towns like Azzano, Seravezza, Pietrasanta, Stazzema, Viareggio, Forte dei Marmi, Camaiore, Massarosa, Massaciuccoli and Lucca.
To go without saying, you will be able to live the artist's Dolce Vita yourself. You will be spoilt both by the many visits to the local restaurants and eateries along our route, all featuring fresh Tuscan food and wines. For those who already joined me for the Trasimeno workshop, the food will be of the same level and quality throughout the week!
WORKSHOP PROGRAM
Arrival and check in during the day. Welcome drink and dinner at Villa La Melangola
and time to relax at the pool.
MODERN SCULPTING MASTERS
After a preliminary discussion, we will head to Studio Sem in Lido di Camaiore, where we will see contemporary artists at work. Studio Sem is a famous sculpting studio that provided a working place to some of the most celebrated modern masters, such as Henry Moore, Georges Adam and Emile Gilioli. Amongst todays sculptors we find the Dutch Eppe de Haan and Eja Siepman van de Berg, English Damian Hurst and Swedish Iger Sannes.
Lunch will be in "Ristorante da Renzo" in Piano di Mommio.
In the afternoon we will reach La Piaggetta, a charming historical villa, where Puccini used to play and compose his music. He dedicated La Bohème to his friends Marchese Ginori and his wife, the owners of La Piaggetta at that time. The villa also features some frescos of the Macchiaioli painters. Claudia, the present owner, and great grand daughter of Marchese Ginori and his wife, will welcome you and show you around. Here René will first teach you part two of the preliminary introduction to Visual Storytelling and after this we will try to create some storytelling photos while the sun is disappearing into the lake.
Dinner in the garden of La Piaggetta.
Taxi/car back to Villa la Melangola
'AZZANO & CAPPELLA' MARBLE QUARRIES AND SCULPTING
After an early breakfast (07.00 h) we will head for the Apuan Alps, shrine of the so called white marble, so appreciated by Michelangelo Buonarroti. First, we will visit Meliton Rivera Espinoza at his home-studio shop and photograph him during the creation of his sculptures and paintings. Then we will head for La Cappella, where you will be able to admire the so called ‘eye of Michelangelo’, the beautiful white marble rose window featuring in this small Romanesque church. Here many young students of the Campo dell’ Altissimo sculpting school, carve their marble pieces enjoying the wonderful panorama and view on the Cava di Michelangelo.
Lunch at Michelangelo Restaurant in Azzano, which is yet serving the traditional dishes of the area, such as tagliarini with beans broth.
In the afternoon we will visit the ARTCO sculpting studio of Cynthia Sah and Nicolas Bertoux, housed in the adjacent building of the Palazzo Medicio in Seravezza. The basement of this building was previously used for trout breeding by the Medici family.
After this we will visit the Fonderia Versiliese, the bronze foundry, where many of the sculptures of contemporary grand master sculptor/painter Fernando Botero came to life.
SERAVEZZA - LEVIGLIANI
Early morning drive to Levigliani, a small village in the Apuan Alps, featuring a very fascinating story related to the white marble excavation. We will not only visit the beautiful underground quarries but also learn about the extraordinary history of the inhabitants.
After this visit we will head for the mountain village of Stazzema in the Alta Versilia.
On the way we will stop for lunch at Norcineria Barsanti, a typical Osteria, offering their own cheese and honey as well as bespoke cured meat, such as salami or ham.
After lunch, we will arrive at the Milani blacksmith workshop, a unique family business, creating bespoke tools and utensils for sculptors and artists, not only from Italy but from all over the world! These sought after utensils are designed with the input and knowledge of many artists, who share their experiences with the artisans. In general the blacksmith trade in Tuscany goes back thousands of years, as already the Etruscans were famous for their creations with iron.
PIETRASANTA A.K.A. LITTLE ATHENS
On Wednesday morning we head for Pietrasanta, also known as Little Athens, where we will visit several ateliers like that of jewel maker Marco Baldieri as well as the famous mosaic workshop of Piero Gianonni.
Lunch will be at Bagno Marco in Forte dei Marmi, where cook Rosa creates her famous dishes with fresh pasta and fish.
As we will be free the rest of the afternoon, there is the possibility to stay put and relax at the beach.
Taxi/car back to Villa Melangola.
Dinner out near Villa Melangola.
Lunch will be at Bagno Marco in Forte dei Marmi, where cook Rosa creates her famous dishes with fresh pasta and fish.
As we will be free the rest of the afternoon, there is the possibility to stay put and relax at the beach.
Taxi/car back to Villa Melangola.
Dinner out near Villa Melangola.
VIAREGGIO AND THE ART OF SHIP BUILDING
On Thursday we will discover the art of yacht building. For this we head to the harbor area in Viareggio, home to many famous ship builders. Here the finest sailing and luxury yachts are being built. We will specifically visit Cantiere Navale Francesco del Carlo to see craftsmen at work, refurbishing historical sailing yachts.
We will have delicious seafood for lunch at a typical Trattoria near the harbour.
After our lunch break, we will continue shooting around the harbor area and enjoy a walk on the pier during sunset, as well as along the beautiful promenade known as the passeggiata a mare in Viareggio. For dinner we will stop at the picturesque Caffè Margherita. The splendid Art Nouveau café - originally opened in 1902, torn down in the 1920’s and rebuilt in 1928 by engineer Belluomini and decorator Galileo Chini - was a favorite hangout of Giacomo Puccini.
Taxi/car back to Villa B&B La Melangola
We will have delicious seafood for lunch at a typical Trattoria near the harbour.
After our lunch break, we will continue shooting around the harbor area and enjoy a walk on the pier during sunset, as well as along the beautiful promenade known as the passeggiata a mare in Viareggio. For dinner we will stop at the picturesque Caffè Margherita. The splendid Art Nouveau café - originally opened in 1902, torn down in the 1920’s and rebuilt in 1928 by engineer Belluomini and decorator Galileo Chini - was a favorite hangout of Giacomo Puccini.
Taxi/car back to Villa B&B La Melangola
LUCCA ARTISAN TOUR
Today our destination is Lucca. The walled in township is nicknamed the city of music since important composers and musicians like Boccherini, Puccini and Andrea Bocelli studied here. On top of that Lucca has a long tradition of producing the finest silk fabrics, dating back all the way to the high times of the Silk Route.
Throughout September, religious celebrations, markets and exhibitions of local handicrafts and products take place (thus becoming the famous Settembre Lucchese). Additionally the 200 year old Boccherini Music Institute will be open for rehearsal and master classes by famous musicians. We will be allowed to photograph musicians in action.
Lunch at Mecenate Restaurant in the heart of Lucca or a picnic on top of the historic city walls.
In the afternoon, there will be time to visit artisan shops like that of a violin maker and an artisanal silk fabric weaving workshop. Silk from Lucca has found its way into the royal palaces throughout Europe.
Taxi/car back to Villa B&B La Melangola
Dinner near Villa La Melangola
Lunch at Mecenate Restaurant in the heart of Lucca or a picnic on top of the historic city walls.
In the afternoon, there will be time to visit artisan shops like that of a violin maker and an artisanal silk fabric weaving workshop. Silk from Lucca has found its way into the royal palaces throughout Europe.
Taxi/car back to Villa B&B La Melangola
Dinner near Villa La Melangola
ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR
René van Bakel originates from the Netherlands. He is a multiple award-winning photographer, journalist, book author as well as the founder of the globally operating photo agency ASAblanca, which is based in Vienna (Austria).
In 1994 René published a book about the aid campaign for more than a million refugees of war in Ruanda/Goma. In 1995 he received the Photo Arm international press award for war correspondents for his photo report on Srebrenica/Bosnia, which was also published in a book.
In 1994 René published a book about the aid campaign for more than a million refugees of war in Ruanda/Goma. In 1995 he received the Photo Arm international press award for war correspondents for his photo report on Srebrenica/Bosnia, which was also published in a book.
Since more than 20 years, René works for a great variety of international media (e.g. National Geographic USA, the New York Times, the LA Times, VOGUE DE, GEO, Le Figaro, Stern, Bloomberg NYC, Preview Dubai, Doctors without borders, US Air Force, Der Standard/Rondo, Servus Magazin, Universum Magazin).
He has adopted Vienna as his new home and created concepts and photographed combined cook/culture/travel books about the Austrian Wine- and Forest Quarter. In 2015 René published the exclusively authorized anniversary volume „450 YEARS SPANISH RIDING SCHOOL“ which he himself initiated and for which he wrote the concept. He documented the life of the Lipizzaner horses in every aspect. For this book he was highly awarded: ONE EYELAND INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY Awards 2015 and PX3 PRIX DE LA PHOTOGRAPHIE PARIS Awards 2016 René currently works on several new book projects.
On top of this René also portrayed and interviewed many prominent people, even in Tuscany where he created home-stories with the great Italian Tenor Andrea Bocelli, Marchese Antinori and his daughters, Bestseller author Frances Mayes as well as sculptor and painter Fernando Botero, whom he exclusively portrayed amidst the exhibition in honour of his 80th birthday in Pietrasanta (published in Vogue). Since many years René teaches photo workshops in Italy and elsewhere.
He has adopted Vienna as his new home and created concepts and photographed combined cook/culture/travel books about the Austrian Wine- and Forest Quarter. In 2015 René published the exclusively authorized anniversary volume „450 YEARS SPANISH RIDING SCHOOL“ which he himself initiated and for which he wrote the concept. He documented the life of the Lipizzaner horses in every aspect. For this book he was highly awarded: ONE EYELAND INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY Awards 2015 and PX3 PRIX DE LA PHOTOGRAPHIE PARIS Awards 2016 René currently works on several new book projects.
On top of this René also portrayed and interviewed many prominent people, even in Tuscany where he created home-stories with the great Italian Tenor Andrea Bocelli, Marchese Antinori and his daughters, Bestseller author Frances Mayes as well as sculptor and painter Fernando Botero, whom he exclusively portrayed amidst the exhibition in honour of his 80th birthday in Pietrasanta (published in Vogue). Since many years René teaches photo workshops in Italy and elsewhere.
RENÉ VAN BAKELIn my long career as a photographer and journalist I have seen and experienced many of the dark sides of life, first hand! This is probably, exactly why, I feel an insanely great pleasure when capturing the beautiful sides of it now and enjoy that with all my senses: real life stories of real people, either in the streets, at home or at work, and of course I don not shut my eyes for a stunning landscape or a piece of local architecture, especially if encountered in the magical golden light of sunset or sunrise. Photographing an honest meal, cooked full of devotion with simple but honest and fresh ingredients. That gives me satisfaction. Especially when served as a piece of art, only to disappear forever in the hungry mouths of the dinner guests just a few moments later.
Catching the emotions, the warmth, the expressive gestures of the of people makes me realize how privileged I am to be able to experience these moments and convert them into a Visual Story and to share this narrative by publishing it (always with consent of the depicted) in a magazine, on social media or even in a book.
I love to share my experience(s) and show you how to create such a spellbinding photo-story yourself!
Join me, and I will show you how!
Instruction will take place on 6 days, and includes an explanation of the basics of photography. The language of instruction is English, German, Dutch and Italian (depending on the origin of the majority of the students, we will pick the main language. Individually though René will speak to you in your language, provided it is one of the before mentioned).
This workshop is divided into theory lessons, lots of live practicing and discussing the images afterward as well as on the spot. As a result of this thoroughly proven method, you can be sure to comprehensively improve your photographic skills!
During theory lessons, the following themes will be (briefly) covered: Basic rules of image composition; how to create a correct exposure (shutter speed, aperture, and ISO adjustment); angles of exposure (focal length, wide angle, telephoto, zoom); focusing and sharpness. Of course, René will also explain what is necessary to create a complete visual narrative.
Please note: Since we also will have macro (close up) photo shootings as well as photo shootings at night, it is recommended to bring a tripod. The organization has one tripod available; however, it would be consuming too much time to take turns using it. Therefore please bring your own. Then, because we are shooting digital pictures please also bring your own laptop and a card reader (USB 3 is recommended) in order to quicken the process of downloading images.
Additional extra for the Photography-Workshop:
There will be cameras and lenses made available by NIKON for a free trial. In case you are contemplating to buy yourself a new camera and would like to try it without commitment – in this seminar you can!
Participants who do not have a camera of their own and would like to use one of the NIKON cameras and lenses during this workshop: Please let us know in advance i.e. when you are signing up.
At the end of the week, we will show you how to choose your best shots and put them in a sequence, in order to transform them into a beautiful documentary. For those of you who want to create an everlasting memory - a photo book - we will briefly introduce to you the Cyberlab - photobook - software, for which you will get a discount gift voucher.
This workshop is divided into theory lessons, lots of live practicing and discussing the images afterward as well as on the spot. As a result of this thoroughly proven method, you can be sure to comprehensively improve your photographic skills!
During theory lessons, the following themes will be (briefly) covered: Basic rules of image composition; how to create a correct exposure (shutter speed, aperture, and ISO adjustment); angles of exposure (focal length, wide angle, telephoto, zoom); focusing and sharpness. Of course, René will also explain what is necessary to create a complete visual narrative.
Please note: Since we also will have macro (close up) photo shootings as well as photo shootings at night, it is recommended to bring a tripod. The organization has one tripod available; however, it would be consuming too much time to take turns using it. Therefore please bring your own. Then, because we are shooting digital pictures please also bring your own laptop and a card reader (USB 3 is recommended) in order to quicken the process of downloading images.
Additional extra for the Photography-Workshop:There will be cameras and lenses made available by NIKON for a free trial. In case you are contemplating to buy yourself a new camera and would like to try it without commitment – in this seminar you can!
Participants who do not have a camera of their own and would like to use one of the NIKON cameras and lenses during this workshop: Please let us know in advance i.e. when you are signing up.
At the end of the week, we will show you how to choose your best shots and put them in a sequence, in order to transform them into a beautiful documentary. For those of you who want to create an everlasting memory - a photo book - we will briefly introduce to you the Cyberlab - photobook - software, for which you will get a discount gift voucher.
ACCOMODATION
Villa La Melangola is located on the slopes of the Apuan Alps overlooking Camaiore, in the famous Versilia region. It is a beautiful country residence villa built here back in the 16th century. It’s location is ideally chosen at the cross roads of the Apuan Alps, the beach towns of La Versilia such as Forte dei Marmi and Viareggio as well as the main roads to cities like Lucca, Pisa and Florence. It's comfortable rooms are decorated with antique Tuscan furniture and for relaxing there is a spacious outside pool with comfortable sun loungers.
Villa La Melangola is located on the slopes of the Apuan Alps overlooking Camaiore, in the famous Versilia region. It is a beautiful country residence villa built here back in the 16th century. It’s location is ideally chosen at the cross roads of the Apuan Alps, the beach towns of La Versilia such as Forte dei Marmi and Viareggio as well as the main roads to cities like Lucca, Pisa and Florence. It's comfortable rooms are decorated with antique Tuscan furniture and for relaxing there is a spacious outside pool with comfortable sun loungers.
RATES
EUR 2.499,00 per person per week in single room occupancy at B&B La Melangola
Included in the price:
Intensive photography workshop with René van Bakel at different photo locations for about 8 hours per day on 6 days (detailed program see above), including guiding, Jeep transfer to quarry, dinner at La Piaggetta, exclusive access to venues and art shops.
Accommodation in single room occupancy for 7 nights at B&B La Melangola
Double room single use for 7 days: 7 breakfasts
Not included in the price:
Transfer from airports and train stations
Transportation to the photo locations. We recommend to arrive with your own car.
Meals (lunch and dinner) at selected restaurants are not included.
EUR 2.499,00 per person per week in single room occupancy at B&B La Melangola
Included in the price:
Intensive photography workshop with René van Bakel at different photo locations for about 8 hours per day on 6 days (detailed program see above), including guiding, Jeep transfer to quarry, dinner at La Piaggetta, exclusive access to venues and art shops.
Accommodation in single room occupancy for 7 nights at B&B La Melangola
Double room single use for 7 days: 7 breakfasts
Not included in the price:
Transfer from airports and train stations
Transportation to the photo locations. We recommend to arrive with your own car.
Meals (lunch and dinner) at selected restaurants are not included.
WITH RENÉ VAN BAKEL IN LA VERSILIA/TUSCANY
THEME OF THIS WORKSHOP: ART, ARTISTS & ARTISANS
Pleasantly learn how to visualize a Photo Story using your camera with multiple award-winning photographer and book author René van Bakel, whose work has been published in major global media like National Geographic, the New York Times, Vogue and many more.
Workshop languages: EN - DE - NL - IT (according to the majority of the group we will select a main language). All Levels are welcome!
Next dates: To be announced
Pleasantly learn how to visualize a Photo Story using your camera with multiple award-winning photographer and book author René van Bakel, whose work has been published in major global media like National Geographic, the New York Times, Vogue and many more.
Workshop languages: EN - DE - NL - IT (according to the majority of the group we will select a main language). All Levels are welcome!
Next dates: To be announced
Join René for an inspiring week full of emotions, Tuscan food, and wines. During this week we will be visiting and meeting artists at work in their studios, as well as treading in the footsteps of old masters like Puccini, Michelangelo, Carducci, Henry Moore and the old rulers (and art-lovers!) of Tuscany: de Medici. There is a good reason why they chose La Versilia as their domicile, because next to it’s daily gourmet experience, this Tuscan region features just about everything an artist needs and which we will explore such as the marble quarries, discovered by Michelangelo, the famous sculpting studios of the region, the Conservatorium in Lucca and the foundry where contemporary grand master Fernando Botero has his bronze sculptures poured into their molds. Another highlight will be our visit to a bespoke yacht building Cantière in Viareggio and the subsequent mundane life at the town's beautiful seaside promenade. Great sculptors need specialist tools. To see how these are created, we will head into the mountains of Alta Versilia (high Versilia) to see how at the Milani blacksmith workshop, sculpting tools like chisels and rasps are created, all by hand, already since many generations! Besides, since we are so close to the sea, we will head for a relaxing break at the beach. To Bagno Marco, known for its familiar atmosphere and extremely fresh gourmet fish food, created by cook Rosa. Last but not least, all along the way we will be able to take in the atmosphere of both romantic villages and seaside towns like Azzano, Seravezza, Pietrasanta, Stazzema, Viareggio, Forte dei Marmi, Camaiore, Massarosa, Massaciuccoli and Lucca.
To go without saying, you will be able to live the artist's Dolce Vita yourself. You will be spoilt both by the many visits to the local restaurants and eateries along our route, all featuring fresh Tuscan food and wines. For those who already joined me for the Trasimeno workshop, the food will be of the same level and quality throughout the week!
WORKSHOP PROGRAM
Arrival and check in during the day. Welcome drink and dinner at Villa La Melangola
and time to relax at the pool.
MODERN SCULPTING MASTERS
After a preliminary discussion, we will head to Studio Sem in Lido di Camaiore, where we will see contemporary artists at work. Studio Sem is a famous sculpting studio that provided a working place to some of the most celebrated modern masters, such as Henry Moore, Georges Adam and Emile Gilioli. Amongst todays sculptors we find the Dutch Eppe de Haan and Eja Siepman van de Berg, English Damian Hurst and Swedish Iger Sannes.
Lunch will be in "Ristorante da Renzo" in Piano di Mommio.
In the afternoon we will reach La Piaggetta, a charming historical villa, where Puccini used to play and compose his music. He dedicated La Bohème to his friends Marchese Ginori and his wife, the owners of La Piaggetta at that time. The villa also features some frescos of the Macchiaioli painters. Claudia, the present owner, and great grand daughter of Marchese Ginori and his wife, will welcome you and show you around. Here René will first teach you part two of the preliminary introduction to Visual Storytelling and after this we will try to create some storytelling photos while the sun is disappearing into the lake.
Dinner in the garden of La Piaggetta.
Taxi/car back to Villa la Melangola
'AZZANO & CAPPELLA' MARBLE QUARRIES AND SCULPTING
After an early breakfast (07.00 h) we will head for the Apuan Alps, shrine of the so called white marble, so appreciated by Michelangelo Buonarroti. First, we will visit Meliton Rivera Espinoza at his home-studio shop and photograph him during the creation of his sculptures and paintings. Then we will head for La Cappella, where you will be able to admire the so called ‘eye of Michelangelo’, the beautiful white marble rose window featuring in this small Romanesque church. Here many young students of the Campo dell’ Altissimo sculpting school, carve their marble pieces enjoying the wonderful panorama and view on the Cava di Michelangelo.
Lunch at Michelangelo Restaurant in Azzano, which is yet serving the traditional dishes of the area, such as tagliarini with beans broth.
In the afternoon we will visit the ARTCO sculpting studio of Cynthia Sah and Nicolas Bertoux, housed in the adjacent building of the Palazzo Medicio in Seravezza. The basement of this building was previously used for trout breeding by the Medici family.
After this we will visit the Fonderia Versiliese, the bronze foundry, where many of the sculptures of contemporary grand master sculptor/painter Fernando Botero came to life.
SERAVEZZA - LEVIGLIANI
Early morning drive to Levigliani, a small village in the Apuan Alps, featuring a very fascinating story related to the white marble excavation. We will not only visit the beautiful underground quarries but also learn about the extraordinary history of the inhabitants.
After this visit we will head for the mountain village of Stazzema in the Alta Versilia.
On the way we will stop for lunch at Norcineria Barsanti, a typical Osteria, offering their own cheese and honey as well as bespoke cured meat, such as salami or ham.
After lunch, we will arrive at the Milani blacksmith workshop, a unique family business, creating bespoke tools and utensils for sculptors and artists, not only from Italy but from all over the world! These sought after utensils are designed with the input and knowledge of many artists, who share their experiences with the artisans. In general the blacksmith trade in Tuscany goes back thousands of years, as already the Etruscans were famous for their creations with iron.
PIETRASANTA A.K.A. LITTLE ATHENS
On Wednesday morning we head for Pietrasanta, also known as Little Athens, where we will visit several ateliers like that of jewel maker Marco Baldieri as well as the famous mosaic workshop of Piero Gianonni.
Lunch will be at Bagno Marco in Forte dei Marmi, where cook Rosa creates her famous dishes with fresh pasta and fish.
As we will be free the rest of the afternoon, there is the possibility to stay put and relax at the beach.
Taxi/car back to Villa Melangola.
Dinner out near Villa Melangola.
Lunch will be at Bagno Marco in Forte dei Marmi, where cook Rosa creates her famous dishes with fresh pasta and fish.
As we will be free the rest of the afternoon, there is the possibility to stay put and relax at the beach.
Taxi/car back to Villa Melangola.
Dinner out near Villa Melangola.
VIAREGGIO AND THE ART OF SHIP BUILDING
On Thursday we will discover the art of yacht building. For this we head to the harbor area in Viareggio, home to many famous ship builders. Here the finest sailing and luxury yachts are being built. We will specifically visit Cantiere Navale Francesco del Carlo to see craftsmen at work, refurbishing historical sailing yachts.
We will have delicious seafood for lunch at a typical Trattoria near the harbour.
After our lunch break, we will continue shooting around the harbor area and enjoy a walk on the pier during sunset, as well as along the beautiful promenade known as the passeggiata a mare in Viareggio. For dinner we will stop at the picturesque Caffè Margherita. The splendid Art Nouveau café - originally opened in 1902, torn down in the 1920’s and rebuilt in 1928 by engineer Belluomini and decorator Galileo Chini - was a favorite hangout of Giacomo Puccini.
Taxi/car back to Villa B&B La Melangola
We will have delicious seafood for lunch at a typical Trattoria near the harbour.
After our lunch break, we will continue shooting around the harbor area and enjoy a walk on the pier during sunset, as well as along the beautiful promenade known as the passeggiata a mare in Viareggio. For dinner we will stop at the picturesque Caffè Margherita. The splendid Art Nouveau café - originally opened in 1902, torn down in the 1920’s and rebuilt in 1928 by engineer Belluomini and decorator Galileo Chini - was a favorite hangout of Giacomo Puccini.
Taxi/car back to Villa B&B La Melangola
LUCCA ARTISAN TOUR
Today our destination is Lucca. The walled in township is nicknamed the city of music since important composers and musicians like Boccherini, Puccini and Andrea Bocelli studied here. On top of that Lucca has a long tradition of producing the finest silk fabrics, dating back all the way to the high times of the Silk Route.
Throughout September, religious celebrations, markets and exhibitions of local handicrafts and products take place (thus becoming the famous Settembre Lucchese). Additionally the 200 year old Boccherini Music Institute will be open for rehearsal and master classes by famous musicians. We will be allowed to photograph musicians in action.
Lunch at Mecenate Restaurant in the heart of Lucca or a picnic on top of the historic city walls.
In the afternoon, there will be time to visit artisan shops like that of a violin maker and an artisanal silk fabric weaving workshop. Silk from Lucca has found its way into the royal palaces throughout Europe.
Taxi/car back to Villa B&B La Melangola
Dinner near Villa La Melangola
Lunch at Mecenate Restaurant in the heart of Lucca or a picnic on top of the historic city walls.
In the afternoon, there will be time to visit artisan shops like that of a violin maker and an artisanal silk fabric weaving workshop. Silk from Lucca has found its way into the royal palaces throughout Europe.
Taxi/car back to Villa B&B La Melangola
Dinner near Villa La Melangola
ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR
René van Bakel originates from the Netherlands. He is a multiple award-winning photographer, journalist, book author as well as the founder of the globally operating photo agency ASAblanca, which is based in Vienna (Austria).
In 1994 René published a book about the aid campaign for more than a million refugees of war in Ruanda/Goma. In 1995 he received the Photo Arm international press award for war correspondents for his photo report on Srebrenica/Bosnia, which was also published in a book.
In 1994 René published a book about the aid campaign for more than a million refugees of war in Ruanda/Goma. In 1995 he received the Photo Arm international press award for war correspondents for his photo report on Srebrenica/Bosnia, which was also published in a book.
Since more than 20 years, René works for a great variety of international media (e.g. National Geographic USA, the New York Times, the LA Times, VOGUE DE, GEO, Le Figaro, Stern, Bloomberg NYC, Preview Dubai, Doctors without borders, US Air Force, Der Standard/Rondo, Servus Magazin, Universum Magazin).
He has adopted Vienna as his new home and created concepts and photographed combined cook/culture/travel books about the Austrian Wine- and Forest Quarter. In 2015 René published the exclusively authorized anniversary volume „450 YEARS SPANISH RIDING SCHOOL“ which he himself initiated and for which he wrote the concept. He documented the life of the Lipizzaner horses in every aspect. For this book he was highly awarded: ONE EYELAND INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY Awards 2015 and PX3 PRIX DE LA PHOTOGRAPHIE PARIS Awards 2016 René currently works on several new book projects.
On top of this René also portrayed and interviewed many prominent people, even in Tuscany where he created home-stories with the great Italian Tenor Andrea Bocelli, Marchese Antinori and his daughters, Bestseller author Frances Mayes as well as sculptor and painter Fernando Botero, whom he exclusively portrayed amidst the exhibition in honour of his 80th birthday in Pietrasanta (published in Vogue). Since many years René teaches photo workshops in Italy and elsewhere.
He has adopted Vienna as his new home and created concepts and photographed combined cook/culture/travel books about the Austrian Wine- and Forest Quarter. In 2015 René published the exclusively authorized anniversary volume „450 YEARS SPANISH RIDING SCHOOL“ which he himself initiated and for which he wrote the concept. He documented the life of the Lipizzaner horses in every aspect. For this book he was highly awarded: ONE EYELAND INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY Awards 2015 and PX3 PRIX DE LA PHOTOGRAPHIE PARIS Awards 2016 René currently works on several new book projects.
On top of this René also portrayed and interviewed many prominent people, even in Tuscany where he created home-stories with the great Italian Tenor Andrea Bocelli, Marchese Antinori and his daughters, Bestseller author Frances Mayes as well as sculptor and painter Fernando Botero, whom he exclusively portrayed amidst the exhibition in honour of his 80th birthday in Pietrasanta (published in Vogue). Since many years René teaches photo workshops in Italy and elsewhere.
RENÉ VAN BAKELIn my long career as a photographer and journalist I have seen and experienced many of the dark sides of life, first hand! This is probably, exactly why, I feel an insanely great pleasure when capturing the beautiful sides of it now and enjoy that with all my senses: real life stories of real people, either in the streets, at home or at work, and of course I don not shut my eyes for a stunning landscape or a piece of local architecture, especially if encountered in the magical golden light of sunset or sunrise. Photographing an honest meal, cooked full of devotion with simple but honest and fresh ingredients. That gives me satisfaction. Especially when served as a piece of art, only to disappear forever in the hungry mouths of the dinner guests just a few moments later.
Catching the emotions, the warmth, the expressive gestures of the of people makes me realize how privileged I am to be able to experience these moments and convert them into a Visual Story and to share this narrative by publishing it (always with consent of the depicted) in a magazine, on social media or even in a book.
I love to share my experience(s) and show you how to create such a spellbinding photo-story yourself!
Join me, and I will show you how!
Instruction will take place on 6 days, and includes an explanation of the basics of photography. The language of instruction is English, German, Dutch and Italian (depending on the origin of the majority of the students, we will pick the main language. Individually though René will speak to you in your language, provided it is one of the before mentioned).
This workshop is divided into theory lessons, lots of live practicing and discussing the images afterward as well as on the spot. As a result of this thoroughly proven method, you can be sure to comprehensively improve your photographic skills!
During theory lessons, the following themes will be (briefly) covered: Basic rules of image composition; how to create a correct exposure (shutter speed, aperture, and ISO adjustment); angles of exposure (focal length, wide angle, telephoto, zoom); focusing and sharpness. Of course, René will also explain what is necessary to create a complete visual narrative.
Please note: Since we also will have macro (close up) photo shootings as well as photo shootings at night, it is recommended to bring a tripod. The organization has one tripod available; however, it would be consuming too much time to take turns using it. Therefore please bring your own. Then, because we are shooting digital pictures please also bring your own laptop and a card reader (USB 3 is recommended) in order to quicken the process of downloading images.
Additional extra for the Photography-Workshop:
There will be cameras and lenses made available by NIKON for a free trial. In case you are contemplating to buy yourself a new camera and would like to try it without commitment – in this seminar you can!
Participants who do not have a camera of their own and would like to use one of the NIKON cameras and lenses during this workshop: Please let us know in advance i.e. when you are signing up.
At the end of the week, we will show you how to choose your best shots and put them in a sequence, in order to transform them into a beautiful documentary. For those of you who want to create an everlasting memory - a photo book - we will briefly introduce to you the Cyberlab - photobook - software, for which you will get a discount gift voucher.
This workshop is divided into theory lessons, lots of live practicing and discussing the images afterward as well as on the spot. As a result of this thoroughly proven method, you can be sure to comprehensively improve your photographic skills!
During theory lessons, the following themes will be (briefly) covered: Basic rules of image composition; how to create a correct exposure (shutter speed, aperture, and ISO adjustment); angles of exposure (focal length, wide angle, telephoto, zoom); focusing and sharpness. Of course, René will also explain what is necessary to create a complete visual narrative.
Please note: Since we also will have macro (close up) photo shootings as well as photo shootings at night, it is recommended to bring a tripod. The organization has one tripod available; however, it would be consuming too much time to take turns using it. Therefore please bring your own. Then, because we are shooting digital pictures please also bring your own laptop and a card reader (USB 3 is recommended) in order to quicken the process of downloading images.
Additional extra for the Photography-Workshop:There will be cameras and lenses made available by NIKON for a free trial. In case you are contemplating to buy yourself a new camera and would like to try it without commitment – in this seminar you can!
Participants who do not have a camera of their own and would like to use one of the NIKON cameras and lenses during this workshop: Please let us know in advance i.e. when you are signing up.
At the end of the week, we will show you how to choose your best shots and put them in a sequence, in order to transform them into a beautiful documentary. For those of you who want to create an everlasting memory - a photo book - we will briefly introduce to you the Cyberlab - photobook - software, for which you will get a discount gift voucher.
ACCOMODATION
Villa La Melangola is located on the slopes of the Apuan Alps overlooking Camaiore, in the famous Versilia region. It is a beautiful country residence villa built here back in the 16th century. It’s location is ideally chosen at the cross roads of the Apuan Alps, the beach towns of La Versilia such as Forte dei Marmi and Viareggio as well as the main roads to cities like Lucca, Pisa and Florence. It's comfortable rooms are decorated with antique Tuscan furniture and for relaxing there is a spacious outside pool with comfortable sun loungers.
Villa La Melangola is located on the slopes of the Apuan Alps overlooking Camaiore, in the famous Versilia region. It is a beautiful country residence villa built here back in the 16th century. It’s location is ideally chosen at the cross roads of the Apuan Alps, the beach towns of La Versilia such as Forte dei Marmi and Viareggio as well as the main roads to cities like Lucca, Pisa and Florence. It's comfortable rooms are decorated with antique Tuscan furniture and for relaxing there is a spacious outside pool with comfortable sun loungers.
RATES
EUR 2.499,00 per person per week in single room occupancy at B&B La Melangola
Included in the price:
Intensive photography workshop with René van Bakel at different photo locations for about 8 hours per day on 6 days (detailed program see above), including guiding, Jeep transfer to quarry, dinner at La Piaggetta, exclusive access to venues and art shops.
Accommodation in single room occupancy for 7 nights at B&B La Melangola
Double room single use for 7 days: 7 breakfasts
Not included in the price:
Transfer from airports and train stations
Transportation to the photo locations. We recommend to arrive with your own car.
Meals (lunch and dinner) at selected restaurants are not included.
EUR 2.499,00 per person per week in single room occupancy at B&B La Melangola
Included in the price:
Intensive photography workshop with René van Bakel at different photo locations for about 8 hours per day on 6 days (detailed program see above), including guiding, Jeep transfer to quarry, dinner at La Piaggetta, exclusive access to venues and art shops.
Accommodation in single room occupancy for 7 nights at B&B La Melangola
Double room single use for 7 days: 7 breakfasts
Not included in the price:
Transfer from airports and train stations
Transportation to the photo locations. We recommend to arrive with your own car.
Meals (lunch and dinner) at selected restaurants are not included.