Tuscany Photography Workshop | May 2027
An Intimate 5-Day Photography Retreat in the Heart of Val d'Orcia
Some landscapes stop you in your tracks. Val d'Orcia is one of them.
Cypress-lined roads glowing at sunrise. Medieval hill towns wrapped in morning mist. Rolling hills that look like they were painted by someone who loved Tuscany too much to stop. This is one of the most photogenic regions on earth, and this workshop is built around experiencing it at its absolute best.
Limited to 6 photographers, this is a hands-on retreat with personal instruction in the field, dedicated editing sessions, and a Tuscan hotel that makes the time between shoots just as good as the shoots themselves.
This workshop includes:
5 nights in a private ensuite room at a carefully selected Tuscan hotel in Val d'Orcia
Breakfast daily
Dinner every evening, either at the hotel or at handpicked local restaurants
All transportation from Rome Fiumicino Airport and back
All ground transportation to every shooting location
Guided tour and wine, cheese, and charcuterie tasting at a local Tuscan winery
Personal instruction in a group of just 6 photographers
In-field guidance, image review, and editing sessions throughout
Access to iconic Val d'Orcia landscapes and locations that most visitors never find
Lunch is not included. There are excellent local options near every location, and the group usually winds up at the same trattoria.
Val d'Orcia: Where Every Direction Is a Photograph
UNESCO-protected and endlessly photogenic, Val d'Orcia is the Tuscany you have seen in travel magazines and never quite believed was real. It is real, and it is even better before 7 AM.
Over five shooting days, you will photograph the landscapes, hill towns, and hidden corners of one of Italy's most celebrated regions. You will work with the light at sunrise and sunset when the valley earns every bit of its reputation. You will also have time between sessions to rest, edit, and simply enjoy being in one of the great places on earth.
This workshop is designed for photographers of all levels. You will leave with a strong portfolio and a clearer eye for landscape photography.
Your Base: A Tuscan Hotel in Val d'Orcia
The hotel is not just a place to sleep. It is a working part of the experience.
Set in the heart of the Tuscan countryside, with sweeping views over the valley, the property features a gourmet restaurant, outdoor pool, spa, and grounds worth photographing on their own. Between sunrise and sunset sessions, you have time to swim, rest, edit images, or sit outside with an espresso and watch the light change across the hills.
Full property details will be provided after registration.
What You Will Photograph
Val d'Orcia rewards photographers who know where to go. Here is a sample of what we will cover:
Podere Belvedere is one of the most photographed villas in all of Tuscany, and with good reason. We arrive before dawn to catch it in the first light before anyone else shows up.
Cappella Vitaleta is the small Renaissance chapel framed by cypress trees that has appeared in more Tuscany travel features than almost anything else in the region. We find a less obvious angle.
Pienza is a UNESCO-protected Renaissance hill town with narrow streets, exceptional Pecorino cheese, and views over the valley that justify the early alarm. We shoot the walls at sunrise and explore the town afterward.
Bagno Vignoni is a medieval village built around a central thermal pool. At night, after sunset, it is extraordinary.
Castiglione d'Orcia sits at one of the highest points above the valley. First light from the walls here is hard to forget.
Crete Senesi is Val d'Orcia's quieter neighbor, famous for its lunar, rolling hills. Fewer crowds, equally dramatic light.
Siena is one of Italy's great medieval cities, founded by the Etruscans roughly 2,800 years ago. We arrive early, before the tour groups, to photograph the streets and architecture.
Torrenieri Cypress Grove is one of those places that look like paintings. We treat it like one.
Daily Schedule
Sunrise sessions run every morning. Participation is optional but strongly encouraged. Early morning mist over Val d'Orcia is one of those things you will not forgive yourself for sleeping through.
The schedule is flexible by design. If the weather creates an exceptional opportunity, we move toward it. If conditions are poor, we use the time for image review, editing, or technique discussions.
Day 1 | May 16: Arrival and First Sunset
Meet at Rome Fiumicino Airport, Terminal 3 arrivals, at 1:00 PM for group pickup. We drive together into the heart of Tuscany, arriving in Val d'Orcia in the late afternoon.
Before checking in, we stop for our first sunset session in the valley. A gentle introduction to the landscape and the light.
After the shoot, we check into the hotel and gather for a welcome dinner together.
Day 2 | May 17: Podere Belvedere, Bagno Vignoni, and the Val d'Orcia Hills
Early Morning: Sunrise | Podere Belvedere We leave before dawn for Podere Belvedere, the most photographed villa in Tuscany. If the mist cooperates, this session will be the one you remember longest. After the shoot, we move south of San Quirico d'Orcia for a second session in the open landscape.
Breakfast and Editing Session at the Villa. We return for breakfast, followed by a group editing session. We work through images from the morning together in Lightroom, focusing on light, color, and how to get the most from golden-hour files.
Afternoon: Villa Gladiatore. We head out to photograph Villa Gladiatore in the afternoon light.
Evening: Sunset and Bagno Vignoni After sunset, we walk the ancient village of Bagno Vignoni, built around its central thermal pool. Exceptional for long exposures and atmosphere.
Dinner at the villa or a nearby restaurant.
Day 3 | May 18: Pienza, Cappella Vitaleta, and Val d'Orcia
Early Morning: Sunrise | Pienza Walls We shoot the classic Val d'Orcia view from below the walls of Pienza, in the first light of morning, seeking a less obvious angle than the standard location.
Morning: Pienza Town After the shoot, we walk into Pienza for coffee, pastries, and a proper exploration of one of Italy's finest Renaissance towns. We stop at a small wine shop near the main piazza whose owner supplies wines to the Vatican. We taste Pecorino di Pienza, one of the great sheep cheeses of Italy.
Breakfast and Editing Session at the Hotel
Afternoon: Val d'Orcia Landscape. We head into the valley for afternoon photography. Evening location is confirmed based on the day's light and weather.
Dinner at the villa or a nearby restaurant.
Day 4 | May 19: Crete Senesi, Siena, and Volterra
Early Morning: Sunrise | Crete Senesi We start the day at Crete Senesi, the rolling lunar landscape just east of Siena. Fewer visitors than Val d'Orcia, equally dramatic light.
Morning: Siena, we drive directly to Siena to arrive before the tourist crowds. Siena is one of the great medieval cities of Italy and rewards street photographers and architectural photographers equally. Coffee and a quick breakfast on the move.
Afternoon: Volterra After lunch in Siena, we drive to Volterra, an Etruscan hill town with dramatic walls and views. We photograph the sunset from the walls and stay for an evening street session.
Alternative evening options depending on conditions: San Gimignano or Montepulciano.
Dinner in Volterra before returning to the hotel.
Day 5 | May 20: Cappella Vitaleta, Montalcino, and Final Sunset
Early Morning: Sunrise | Cappella Vitaleta The iconic Renaissance chapel in Val d'Orcia, framed by cypress trees. One of the defining images of Tuscany. We work it carefully and find our own angle.
Breakfast and Final Editing Session: A dedicated session focused on composition review and developing a consistent processing style. Vito provides individual feedback on your strongest images from the week and a clear direction for what to work on next.
Afternoon and Evening: Montalcino We drive to Montalcino, home of Brunello, one of Italy's greatest wines, for afternoon photography from the fortress walls, followed by an evening street session in the medieval center.
Farewell dinner together, either in Montalcino or back at the villa.
Day 6 | May 21: Final Sunrise and Departure
Early Morning: Final Sunrise One last session near the villa. The last morning in Val d'Orcia deserves an early alarm.
Breakfast and Checkout Return to the villa for breakfast and pack up before checkout.
Return to Rome Fiumicino Airport. We depart together and arrive at Rome Fiumicino between 1:00 and 2:00 PM. Individual drop-off times will be coordinated based on your flight.
Meet Your Instructor
Vito L. Tanzi is an internationally published travel and wildlife photographer, author, and educator based in Washington, DC. He has photographed across more than 75 countries and led photography workshops and photo walks for students ranging from complete beginners to working professionals. His work has appeared in Condé Nast and CNN, among others. He is fluent in Italian, which makes navigating Tuscany considerably more enjoyable for everyone.
Vito teaches with a focus on practical, real-world techniques. The goal is simple: help you leave better than you arrived.
Joining Vito throughout the workshop is Dr. Zena Hammoud, a board-certified Infectious Disease Physician and Internal Medicine Doctor. Dr. Hammoud is happy to assist any participant with health questions or concerns during the trip.
What You Will Learn
How to read Tuscany's landscape light at sunrise, blue hour, and in foggy conditions
Camera settings for golden hour, mist, and low-contrast overcast light
Composition techniques for wide landscape, intimate detail, and street photography
Long exposure techniques for motion and atmosphere
Practical editing in Lightroom with individual feedback
How to develop your own visual style through personalized guidance
Instruction is tailored to your experience level. Questions are always encouraged.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the workshop cost? $5,200 USD. This covers the full workshop fee, five nights in a private ensuite room at the agriturismo, daily breakfast, all transportation from Rome Fiumicino Airport and back, transport to all shooting locations, and the winery tour and tasting.]
What is the activity level? Easy. All shooting locations are accessible on foot within five minutes of where we park or from the agriturismo grounds. No hiking is required. Participants range from their 20s to their 80s. If you have specific mobility concerns, reach out before registering.
Where are we staying? A carefully selected Agriturismo in the heart of Val d'Orcia, with private ensuite rooms, an indoor and outdoor pool, spa, and horse riding. Full property details are provided after registration.
How do I get there? We meet at Rome Fiumicino Airport on Day 1 and travel together by van to the agriturismo. The return transfer on Day 6 is also included. You book your own flights into and out of Rome.
What should I wear? Tuscany in early May typically ranges from 55°F to 72°F (13°C to 22°C), with warm afternoons and cooler mornings. Pack comfortable walking shoes, light layers for early morning shoots, and a small rain jacket. Dress is casual and practical throughout.
Should I bring medications? Pack any prescription medications you take regularly, along with personal essentials. Dr. Zena Hammoud, a board-certified Infectious Disease and Internal Medicine Physician, will be present throughout the workshop and is happy to assist with any health concerns.
What gear should I bring?
Camera and lenses:
DSLR or mirrorless camera
Wide-angle to medium telephoto lens (16-35mm or 24-70mm)
Telephoto or short telephoto lens (70-200mm or 100-500mm for compression on landscape)
Support and accessories:
Sturdy tripod (essential for this workshop)
Wireless remote or cable release
Extra batteries and memory cards
Microfiber lens cloth
Rain cover for your camera
Camera backpack
Recommended filters:
Circular polarizer
10-stop ND filter (ND1000)
3-stop and 6-stop ND filters
Graduated ND filters for landscape work
Tech essentials:
Laptop with Lightroom and/or Photoshop
Battery charger and card reader
USB cables
Italy travel adapter (Type F or Type L)
What experience level is required? All skill levels are welcome. Instruction is tailored to where you are. No prior workshop experience is necessary.
What is not included?
Airfare
Lunch and dinner
Alcoholic beverages (wine tasting is included)
Visa fees, if applicable
Early check-in or late check-out
Personal expenses
Travel insurance (required)
Equipment insurance (recommended)
City tax
Tips and gratuities
Can my spouse join? Your spouse is welcome to stay at the agriturismo and join you during free time, meals on your own, and the winery visit. The property has a pool, spa, and horse riding, so there is no shortage of ways to spend the day. To protect the learning environment and group dynamic, spouses are not able to join photography sessions or instruction time.
What is the refund policy? If you cancel and we can fill your spot at least 30 days before the workshop, you receive a full refund minus the merchant processing fee (approximately $220). If we cannot fill your spot, you receive a refund minus a $1,000 service fee. No refunds are available for cancellations within 30 days of the workshop.
Still have questions? Email us at vito@chasinghippoz.com. We are happy to help.
Tuscany Photography Workshop | May 2027
An Intimate 5-Day Photography Retreat in the Heart of Val d'Orcia
Some landscapes stop you in your tracks. Val d'Orcia is one of them.
Cypress-lined roads glowing at sunrise. Medieval hill towns wrapped in morning mist. Rolling hills that look like they were painted by someone who loved Tuscany too much to stop. This is one of the most photogenic regions on earth, and this workshop is built around experiencing it at its absolute best.
Limited to 6 photographers, this is a hands-on retreat with personal instruction in the field, dedicated editing sessions, and a Tuscan hotel that makes the time between shoots just as good as the shoots themselves.
This workshop includes:
5 nights in a private ensuite room at a carefully selected Tuscan hotel in Val d'Orcia
Breakfast daily
Dinner every evening, either at the hotel or at handpicked local restaurants
All transportation from Rome Fiumicino Airport and back
All ground transportation to every shooting location
Guided tour and wine, cheese, and charcuterie tasting at a local Tuscan winery
Personal instruction in a group of just 6 photographers
In-field guidance, image review, and editing sessions throughout
Access to iconic Val d'Orcia landscapes and locations that most visitors never find
Lunch is not included. There are excellent local options near every location, and the group usually winds up at the same trattoria.
Val d'Orcia: Where Every Direction Is a Photograph
UNESCO-protected and endlessly photogenic, Val d'Orcia is the Tuscany you have seen in travel magazines and never quite believed was real. It is real, and it is even better before 7 AM.
Over five shooting days, you will photograph the landscapes, hill towns, and hidden corners of one of Italy's most celebrated regions. You will work with the light at sunrise and sunset when the valley earns every bit of its reputation. You will also have time between sessions to rest, edit, and simply enjoy being in one of the great places on earth.
This workshop is designed for photographers of all levels. You will leave with a strong portfolio and a clearer eye for landscape photography.
Your Base: A Tuscan Hotel in Val d'Orcia
The hotel is not just a place to sleep. It is a working part of the experience.
Set in the heart of the Tuscan countryside, with sweeping views over the valley, the property features a gourmet restaurant, outdoor pool, spa, and grounds worth photographing on their own. Between sunrise and sunset sessions, you have time to swim, rest, edit images, or sit outside with an espresso and watch the light change across the hills.
Full property details will be provided after registration.
What You Will Photograph
Val d'Orcia rewards photographers who know where to go. Here is a sample of what we will cover:
Podere Belvedere is one of the most photographed villas in all of Tuscany, and with good reason. We arrive before dawn to catch it in the first light before anyone else shows up.
Cappella Vitaleta is the small Renaissance chapel framed by cypress trees that has appeared in more Tuscany travel features than almost anything else in the region. We find a less obvious angle.
Pienza is a UNESCO-protected Renaissance hill town with narrow streets, exceptional Pecorino cheese, and views over the valley that justify the early alarm. We shoot the walls at sunrise and explore the town afterward.
Bagno Vignoni is a medieval village built around a central thermal pool. At night, after sunset, it is extraordinary.
Castiglione d'Orcia sits at one of the highest points above the valley. First light from the walls here is hard to forget.
Crete Senesi is Val d'Orcia's quieter neighbor, famous for its lunar, rolling hills. Fewer crowds, equally dramatic light.
Siena is one of Italy's great medieval cities, founded by the Etruscans roughly 2,800 years ago. We arrive early, before the tour groups, to photograph the streets and architecture.
Torrenieri Cypress Grove is one of those places that look like paintings. We treat it like one.
Daily Schedule
Sunrise sessions run every morning. Participation is optional but strongly encouraged. Early morning mist over Val d'Orcia is one of those things you will not forgive yourself for sleeping through.
The schedule is flexible by design. If the weather creates an exceptional opportunity, we move toward it. If conditions are poor, we use the time for image review, editing, or technique discussions.
Day 1 | May 16: Arrival and First Sunset
Meet at Rome Fiumicino Airport, Terminal 3 arrivals, at 1:00 PM for group pickup. We drive together into the heart of Tuscany, arriving in Val d'Orcia in the late afternoon.
Before checking in, we stop for our first sunset session in the valley. A gentle introduction to the landscape and the light.
After the shoot, we check into the hotel and gather for a welcome dinner together.
Day 2 | May 17: Podere Belvedere, Bagno Vignoni, and the Val d'Orcia Hills
Early Morning: Sunrise | Podere Belvedere We leave before dawn for Podere Belvedere, the most photographed villa in Tuscany. If the mist cooperates, this session will be the one you remember longest. After the shoot, we move south of San Quirico d'Orcia for a second session in the open landscape.
Breakfast and Editing Session at the Villa. We return for breakfast, followed by a group editing session. We work through images from the morning together in Lightroom, focusing on light, color, and how to get the most from golden-hour files.
Afternoon: Villa Gladiatore. We head out to photograph Villa Gladiatore in the afternoon light.
Evening: Sunset and Bagno Vignoni After sunset, we walk the ancient village of Bagno Vignoni, built around its central thermal pool. Exceptional for long exposures and atmosphere.
Dinner at the villa or a nearby restaurant.
Day 3 | May 18: Pienza, Cappella Vitaleta, and Val d'Orcia
Early Morning: Sunrise | Pienza Walls We shoot the classic Val d'Orcia view from below the walls of Pienza, in the first light of morning, seeking a less obvious angle than the standard location.
Morning: Pienza Town After the shoot, we walk into Pienza for coffee, pastries, and a proper exploration of one of Italy's finest Renaissance towns. We stop at a small wine shop near the main piazza whose owner supplies wines to the Vatican. We taste Pecorino di Pienza, one of the great sheep cheeses of Italy.
Breakfast and Editing Session at the Hotel
Afternoon: Val d'Orcia Landscape. We head into the valley for afternoon photography. Evening location is confirmed based on the day's light and weather.
Dinner at the villa or a nearby restaurant.
Day 4 | May 19: Crete Senesi, Siena, and Volterra
Early Morning: Sunrise | Crete Senesi We start the day at Crete Senesi, the rolling lunar landscape just east of Siena. Fewer visitors than Val d'Orcia, equally dramatic light.
Morning: Siena, we drive directly to Siena to arrive before the tourist crowds. Siena is one of the great medieval cities of Italy and rewards street photographers and architectural photographers equally. Coffee and a quick breakfast on the move.
Afternoon: Volterra After lunch in Siena, we drive to Volterra, an Etruscan hill town with dramatic walls and views. We photograph the sunset from the walls and stay for an evening street session.
Alternative evening options depending on conditions: San Gimignano or Montepulciano.
Dinner in Volterra before returning to the hotel.
Day 5 | May 20: Cappella Vitaleta, Montalcino, and Final Sunset
Early Morning: Sunrise | Cappella Vitaleta The iconic Renaissance chapel in Val d'Orcia, framed by cypress trees. One of the defining images of Tuscany. We work it carefully and find our own angle.
Breakfast and Final Editing Session: A dedicated session focused on composition review and developing a consistent processing style. Vito provides individual feedback on your strongest images from the week and a clear direction for what to work on next.
Afternoon and Evening: Montalcino We drive to Montalcino, home of Brunello, one of Italy's greatest wines, for afternoon photography from the fortress walls, followed by an evening street session in the medieval center.
Farewell dinner together, either in Montalcino or back at the villa.
Day 6 | May 21: Final Sunrise and Departure
Early Morning: Final Sunrise One last session near the villa. The last morning in Val d'Orcia deserves an early alarm.
Breakfast and Checkout Return to the villa for breakfast and pack up before checkout.
Return to Rome Fiumicino Airport. We depart together and arrive at Rome Fiumicino between 1:00 and 2:00 PM. Individual drop-off times will be coordinated based on your flight.
Meet Your Instructor
Vito L. Tanzi is an internationally published travel and wildlife photographer, author, and educator based in Washington, DC. He has photographed across more than 75 countries and led photography workshops and photo walks for students ranging from complete beginners to working professionals. His work has appeared in Condé Nast and CNN, among others. He is fluent in Italian, which makes navigating Tuscany considerably more enjoyable for everyone.
Vito teaches with a focus on practical, real-world techniques. The goal is simple: help you leave better than you arrived.
Joining Vito throughout the workshop is Dr. Zena Hammoud, a board-certified Infectious Disease Physician and Internal Medicine Doctor. Dr. Hammoud is happy to assist any participant with health questions or concerns during the trip.
What You Will Learn
How to read Tuscany's landscape light at sunrise, blue hour, and in foggy conditions
Camera settings for golden hour, mist, and low-contrast overcast light
Composition techniques for wide landscape, intimate detail, and street photography
Long exposure techniques for motion and atmosphere
Practical editing in Lightroom with individual feedback
How to develop your own visual style through personalized guidance
Instruction is tailored to your experience level. Questions are always encouraged.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the workshop cost? $5,200 USD. This covers the full workshop fee, five nights in a private ensuite room at the agriturismo, daily breakfast, all transportation from Rome Fiumicino Airport and back, transport to all shooting locations, and the winery tour and tasting.]
What is the activity level? Easy. All shooting locations are accessible on foot within five minutes of where we park or from the agriturismo grounds. No hiking is required. Participants range from their 20s to their 80s. If you have specific mobility concerns, reach out before registering.
Where are we staying? A carefully selected Agriturismo in the heart of Val d'Orcia, with private ensuite rooms, an indoor and outdoor pool, spa, and horse riding. Full property details are provided after registration.
How do I get there? We meet at Rome Fiumicino Airport on Day 1 and travel together by van to the agriturismo. The return transfer on Day 6 is also included. You book your own flights into and out of Rome.
What should I wear? Tuscany in early May typically ranges from 55°F to 72°F (13°C to 22°C), with warm afternoons and cooler mornings. Pack comfortable walking shoes, light layers for early morning shoots, and a small rain jacket. Dress is casual and practical throughout.
Should I bring medications? Pack any prescription medications you take regularly, along with personal essentials. Dr. Zena Hammoud, a board-certified Infectious Disease and Internal Medicine Physician, will be present throughout the workshop and is happy to assist with any health concerns.
What gear should I bring?
Camera and lenses:
DSLR or mirrorless camera
Wide-angle to medium telephoto lens (16-35mm or 24-70mm)
Telephoto or short telephoto lens (70-200mm or 100-500mm for compression on landscape)
Support and accessories:
Sturdy tripod (essential for this workshop)
Wireless remote or cable release
Extra batteries and memory cards
Microfiber lens cloth
Rain cover for your camera
Camera backpack
Recommended filters:
Circular polarizer
10-stop ND filter (ND1000)
3-stop and 6-stop ND filters
Graduated ND filters for landscape work
Tech essentials:
Laptop with Lightroom and/or Photoshop
Battery charger and card reader
USB cables
Italy travel adapter (Type F or Type L)
What experience level is required? All skill levels are welcome. Instruction is tailored to where you are. No prior workshop experience is necessary.
What is not included?
Airfare
Lunch and dinner
Alcoholic beverages (wine tasting is included)
Visa fees, if applicable
Early check-in or late check-out
Personal expenses
Travel insurance (required)
Equipment insurance (recommended)
City tax
Tips and gratuities
Can my spouse join? Your spouse is welcome to stay at the agriturismo and join you during free time, meals on your own, and the winery visit. The property has a pool, spa, and horse riding, so there is no shortage of ways to spend the day. To protect the learning environment and group dynamic, spouses are not able to join photography sessions or instruction time.
What is the refund policy? If you cancel and we can fill your spot at least 30 days before the workshop, you receive a full refund minus the merchant processing fee (approximately $220). If we cannot fill your spot, you receive a refund minus a $1,000 service fee. No refunds are available for cancellations within 30 days of the workshop.
Still have questions? Email us at vito@chasinghippoz.com. We are happy to help.
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