Can I join the winter Lofoten photo expedition if I'm not an experienced photographer?

Yes. The expedition is open to motivated photographers of different skill levels. You'll receive hands-on guidance in the field, and the program is adapted to your experience and goals.

What kind of weather should I expect during the winter expedition?

Lofoten winter is unpredictable: snow, wind, storms and occasional calm light windows. The expedition is planned daily around real forecasts to maximize safety and photographic results.

What if I don't have the best camera gear?

That's fine. You can join with any solid camera setup. After registration, you'll receive a gear checklist and personal recommendations tailored to your needs.

How do you handle bad weather during the expedition?

Bad weather is part of real Arctic photography. We adapt locations and shooting times to conditions, and you'll learn how to work creatively and safely in storms, snow and changing light.

Will we be photographing the Northern Lights every night?

Aurora is never guaranteed, but we monitor forecasts and go out whenever conditions allow. You'll learn planning and capture technique to make the most of each opportunity.

Je tato fotoexpedice vhodná i pro fotografy z ČR a je dostupná komunikace v češtině?

Ano. Fotoexpedice je otevřená i pro fotografy z ČR a během celé akce je k dispozici komunikace v češtině.

Lofoten 2027: Aurora Photo Expedition

26 Expeditions. 15 Years. One Unrivaled Arctic Experience.

Master the Peak Aurora During the 2027 Solar Maximum

Join Jan Smid, Master QEP and ZEISS Ambassador, for nine days in Norway's Lofoten Islands during the peak of the 2027 solar maximum — statistically the best Aurora Borealis conditions in a decade. Jan has led 25 Lofoten expeditions since 2016 across every season and light condition, and is recognised as one of Europe's leading authorities on Aurora photography and high-resolution panoramic workflows.

This is not a workshop you attend — it is an Arctic mission you execute. We eliminate the guesswork, teaching you to master single-shots, complex panoramas, and Aurora photography where others only take snapshots. Pure, calculated landscape engineering for those who want total control, not presets.

25 sold-out Lofoten expeditions since 2016. That knowledge — every secret location, every light condition, every Aurora forecast technique — is yours for nine days.

“Everything was very well organized from the start, with helpful pre-trip advice on gear and expectations. On location, Jan’s experience really showed — we were always at the right place at the right time, both for landscapes and aurora. Plans were constantly adapted to weather and conditions. Highly recommended — I’d definitely join another tour with Jan.”

— Frank V., Germany · Lofoten March 2026

Winter sunset at Mannen above Haukland Beach, Lofoten photo expedition 2026 (cz: fotoexpedice Lofoty, zimní Lofoty).

Why Jan Smid — And Why February in Lofoten

Led personally by Jan Smid — every day, every session. No substitute instructors. No hand-offs. Jan is present for the entire expedition as the lead instructor.

Master QEP — the highest qualification awarded by the Federation of European Photographers, held by fewer than 100 photographers across Europe. ZEISS Ambassador (one of 25 worldwide). 300+ international awards. 26 Lofoten expeditions by 2027 — more than any comparable photographer in Europe.

Why February specifically? February sits at the statistical peak of Aurora activity — long polar nights, maximum darkness, and the 2027 solar maximum aligning for once-in-a-decade conditions. The snow is deep, the coastlines are frozen, and the light is unlike anything you will find in any other month. This is the window serious landscape photographers wait years for.

You are not following someone else's shots. You are learning to make your own decisions in demanding Arctic conditions — supported every step of the way by a team that has done this 25 times before.

What Will We Photograph on Lofoten?

Our Lofoten winter photography workshop does not follow a rigid itinerary — we adapt daily to the best light, weather, Aurora conditions and forecasts. Every day is planned in real-time to ensure you are always in the strongest possible location at the right moment. We also incorporate opportunities for documentary-style photography and casual sightseeing, ensuring the journey is not just productive but unforgettable.

📍Highlights you may experience during the expedition include:

🏘️ Reine & Hamnøy – postcard-perfect red cabins and dramatic fjord landscapes

🏡 Sakrisøy – picturesque yellow rorbuer nestled under towering peaks
🌑 Skagsanden Beach – iconic black-sand beach with wave patterns
🏖️ Uttakleiv & Haukland – two of the most photogenic beaches in Northern Norway
🌊 Unstad Beach (optional hike) – famous surf spot with dramatic scenery and hiking nearby
🌉 Fredvang Bridges – leading lines, curves, and mountain-framed vistas
🏘️ Nusfjord – charming UNESCO-listed heritage fishing village
🌊 Flakstadøy’s Wild Coastline – remote cliffs and secret coves perfect for exploration
🏠 Å Village – the final village at the end of the road, with stunning views and atmosphere
🏝️ Ramberg Beach – Caribbean-like turquoise waters and wide sandy shorelines
⛰️ Reinebringen & Offersøykammen & Mannen & Vegen (optional hikes) – an amazing panoramic views over beaches, fjords, and peaks
💧 Sørvågen Waterfalls & Lakes – scenic cascades and serene alpine lakes in the dramatic Sørvågen backcountry, perfect for moody reflections and misty drama
⛪️ Flakstad Church –18th-century red church standing strong by the sea
⛪️ Gimsøy Church – small white wooden church by the sea, anchored with steel cables to withstand Arctic storms
🔭 Panoramic Viewpoints
✨ …and much more. We never reveal all our spots up front 😉 some places are just too magical to spoil in advance. Trust us: this tour goes far beyond the guidebooks.
‍ ‍Here’s a map of some locations – the list is far from complete, and the pins are only approximate:

Physically Accessible Photo Tour, Adapted to Your Fitness Level

This expedition is suitable for all levels of fitness. Most photo locations require only light walks. If you're eager for hikes to high-altitude spots, you’ll have that option. And if you prefer an easy photo workshop with accessible viewpoints, we’ve got you covered too.

✅ No one is left behind.
✅ Flexible plan each day based on weather and fitness.
✅ 3 instructors, multiple vehicles = personalized approach.

“The week spent in Lofoten absolutely exceeded my expectations. Jan loves to share his knowledge and is a natural teacher. Each participant benefitted from individual attention and suggestions for improved composition. He taught me to see images differently so I could self-critique and improve my landscapes independently.”

— Pat Antliff, Canada · Lofoten March 2025

“Jan worked relentlessly to ensure we never missed an opportunity — staying up during nights to check for Aurora Borealis, constantly adapting the schedule to changing weather conditions. He made sure we were always at the right place at the right time, all with a very easy-going and collegial attitude. I can’t recommend his photo expeditions enough.”

— Lukas Ramming, Switzerland · Lofoten February 2025

“Jan followed the Aurora forecast and we scored with the most spectacular display of many colours dancing across the sky. He goes above and beyond with locations, teaching and editing — always finding the right spot at the right moment. A masterful teacher and a wonderful host. You won’t be disappointed.”

— Jeanne B., Atlanta, USA · Lofoten September 2025

🎥 Behind the Scenes of Our Winter Lofoten Photo Expeditions
Get an authentic glimpse into what it's like to join our winter photo tours in Lofoten. This backstage video captures real moments from past expeditions...

🎥 This is the first part of our Northern Lights photography theory series — essential viewing before heading out on your photo expedition. Learn how to plan, shoot, and succeed under the aurora-filled skies.

📍 Location: Lofoten Islands, Norway

📅 Dates: 22nd February – 2nd March 2027 (9 days/8 nights)

⏱️ Meeting point: Leknes Airport (LKN)

👥 Participants: Max 6

👨‍🏫 Instructors: Jan Smid (Master QEP), Martin Strouhal (QEP), Pavel Drexler (Adobe Certified Professional)

✈️ Flights: Group support available

💰 Price: 5490 USD

‍ ‍‍ ‍ ‍(🇨🇿 Pro účastníky z ČR a SR máme vypsané speciální podmínky a platbu v CZK. Pro českou cenu mě kontaktujte přímo přes formulář níže.)

💼 Deposit: 1490 USD

🏠 Accommodation: Private cabins (“rorbuer”) or luxury villa in Reine area (accommodation in twin rooms, single room available for an additional fee).

🍽 Meals: Self-catering or restaurants

🌐 Language: English (🇨🇿 český lektor k dispozici)

Who This Expedition Is For

This expedition is ideal if you:

✅ Want portfolio-level Arctic winter images
✅ Want to experience real expedition photography
✅ Want guidance directly in the field, not lectures on a bus
✅ Want to photograph landscapes and aurora
✅ Appreciate small groups and personal feedback

You don’t need to be a professional.
But you should be serious about photography and ready to work in real winter conditions.

Panoramic winter sunset in Lofoten with warm Arctic colors and a snow-covered landscape, captured during a photo expedition (cz: fotoexpedice Lofoty, zimní Lofoty).

Aurora Borealis over snowy Lofoten mountains during a winter photo tour panorama (cz: fotoexpedice Lofoty, polární záře).

Northern Lights over winter Lofoten peaks during a landscape expedition panorama (cz: fotoexpedice Lofoty, polární záře).

Why This Expedition Costs What It Costs

This is not a mass-market tour.

Your investment reflects:
• small group size
• high instructor-to-participant ratio
• real expedition logistics
• premium Arctic accommodation
• full day & night instruction
• and the personal presence of a Master QEP for the entire trip

If you’re looking for the cheapest option, there are many.
If you want a real Arctic photography experience, this is it.

This expedition runs once per season and places are strictly limited.

👉 APPLY FOR LOFOTEN WINTER 2027

Immersive Arctic experience • Small group • No substitutes

Arctic winter coastline at Lofoten with snow-covered peaks and colorful foreground during a photo expedition (cz: fotoexpedice Lofoty, zimní Lofoty).

Extend Your Results: Exclusive Online Landscape Masterclass

As an expedition participant, you get access to something we don't offer publicly — a private Online Masterclass session reserved exclusively for our expedition guests.

Join before the expedition to arrive with stronger technique — panoramas, exposure control, long exposures or night sky workflow. Or join after to bring your best images to exhibition-ready standard with Jan Smid, Master QEP guiding every step live.

This is not a public webinar. It is a private, invitation-only session — maximum 6 seats, real-time interaction, your questions answered directly.

Private session — exclusive to expedition participants, not available to the public
Live via Zoom — 3 hours including Q&A
Full 4K recording sent to every participant
Original RAW files and practice assets included
Strictly limited to 6 seats per session
Price: $149 USD — exclusively for expedition participants

Add to your booking in the application form

Pre-Expedition Support & Gear Consultation

You’ll get the absolute most out of this Lofoten photo expedition with a DSLR or mirrorless system, a sturdy tripod, and a lens range from wide-angle to telephoto.

Elite Gear Consultation & Support:

Pre-Expedition Consulting: Included in your booking is a full gear audit. Whether you are upgrading your sensor, choosing the right lens lineup, or selecting weather-sealed clothing, we provide expert guidance before the mission begins.
Pro Gear Access: In select cases, we provide the opportunity to test professional-grade equipment directly in the field (limited availability).
Tactical Preparation: After registration, you will receive a comprehensive, high-detail gear list and preparation guide to ensure you are ready for any condition.

Winter sunrise panorama of Reine and Hamnøy in Lofoten during a landscape photo expedition (cz: fotoexpedice Lofoty, zimní Lofoty).

✅ What’s Included in the Price

✅ Expert Instruction
• Full-time guidance from 3 instructors, including Jan Smid, Master QEP
• Personalized guidance, daily image reviews, and evening lectures
• Techniques for single-shot, panoramic, and night photography
• Basic/Advanced post-processing

✅ Accommodation
• 9 days/8 nights in private cabins (“rorbuer”) or luxury villa in Reine area (accommodation in twin rooms, single room available for an additional fee) Private terrace, full kitchen, laundry, top amenities. Double occupancy standard (single room available at extra cost).

✅ Transportation
• All local transport included — day and night photo shoots

✅ Tailored Shooting Program
• Flexible daily planning based on weather forecasts
• Access to remote and exclusive locations across Lofoten

✅ Support & Atmosphere
• Friendly, small-group environment (max. 6 participants)
• All knowledge is shared openly — no hidden tricks

Cozy, sunlit modern kitchen and living area with a red sofa, dining table, and large windows with mountain views.

Regenerate alt text copyIconcrossIconBlue A cozy bedroom with a dark bed, white pillows, two reading lamps, wood-paneled walls, and a gray blanket folded at the foot.

Wooden deck overlooking a sparkling fjord, with mountain peaks and small houses in the background under a bright sun.

Flights to/from Lofoten
Meal
Entry fees (if applicable)

Minimalist attic bedroom with slanted wood-paneled ceiling, double bed, side table, shelving unit, and window letting in daylight.

Modern kitchen and living area with wood stove, black and white cabinets, TV, windows, and a dining table with chairs.

A wooden deck with two chairs, a small table, a picnic bench, and a red house with white trim in the background.

Minimalist bathroom with glass shower, wall-mounted toilet, white sink, and a small plant on the wall.

How This Expedition Works

There is no fixed day-by-day itinerary. Each shooting day is planned based on real conditions — light, weather, wind and aurora forecasts. This flexible approach allows us to always be in the best possible location at the right moment, whether it’s for sunrise, sunset or night photography.

Thanks to long-term experience and deep local knowledge of Lofoten, we adapt quickly and focus on what matters most: strong landscape and Aurora images, not ticking boxes on a schedule.

Our mission is simple: To help every participant create the best images possible — every single day.

For those planning more premium workshops in 2027, explore our Alaska Fall Photo Workshop 2027 — high-end adventure focused on tundra colors, glaciers and the Aurora Borealis (fotoexpedice Aljaška 2027, fotoexpedice Aljaška 2027, fotoworkshop Aljaška).

❓ FAQ: Lofoten Winter Photo Tour 2027

Absolutely! The expedition is open to photographers of all skill levels. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced pro, you'll receive personalized coaching from Jan Šmíd and his team to improve your skills in capturing the dramatic winter landscapes of Lofoten.
The weather in Lofoten during winter is dramatic, with a mix of snow showers, clear sunny days, and cold nights. Temperatures usually range from -5°C to 5°C, but it can feel colder due to high humidity. The weather changes frequently, so we recommend bringing high-quality outdoor clothing to stay comfortable throughout your trip.
Don’t worry! We can adapt to any gear you have, whether it’s a smartphone or a high-end camera. After you register, we provide a detailed gear list and recommendations to make sure you're ready for the conditions, and you can always consult with us for any additional advice.
Lofoten’s winter weather can be unpredictable, but we embrace it! Even in harsh conditions, there are always incredible photography opportunities. We plan our schedule around the best possible light and weather conditions, and our instructors will teach you how to make the most of dramatic skies, snow, and ever-changing conditions.
The Northern Lights are a highlight of the winter expedition! While we can’t guarantee auroras every night due to weather and solar activity, the conditions in Lofoten are ideal for frequent sightings. We’ll maximize your chances by planning our activities around the best aurora conditions and teaching you expert techniques for capturing the lights.
Ano — expedice je otevřená i pro fotografy z ČR a během celého programu je k dispozici česká komunikace.