Do I need hiking experience to join the expedition?

No. The expedition is designed to be physically accessible. Most photo locations require only light walks. Optional more demanding hikes are offered for those interested.

What photography gear should I bring?

Ideally a DSLR or mirrorless camera, tripod, and a few lenses. However, mobile photographers are also welcome. We provide gear consultations and limited test gear.

Is night photography included?

Yes. Madeira offers great conditions for astrophotography. We photograph the Milky Way from high-altitude locations like Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo.

How are locations selected?

We do not follow a fixed tourist itinerary. Locations are chosen each day based on weather, light, and local conditions to maximize photography success.

Is accommodation included?

Yes. We stay in a private luxury villa near Funchal with sea views, a pool, and full kitchen access.

🇵🇹 Spring Photography Expedition & Workshop in Madeira 2026 | Jan Šmíd Photo Tour

Madeira Photography Workshop – Spring 2026

May 23–31, 2026
📍 Madeira, Portugal | 👤 Max 8 Participants | 📸 Up to 4 Instructors incl. Jan Šmíd, Master QEP

Join Us in Madeira — The Island of Eternal Spring

Join award-winning photographer Jan Šmíd on an unforgettable 8-day photo journey to Madeira in Spring 2026. This photography workshop offers both field experience and real-time coaching in one of Europe’s most picturesque destinations.

Capture stunning landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant wildflowers as you explore Madeira’s rich beauty. From landscape to night photography, you’ll enhance your skills with expert guidance. Whether you're an amateur or a seasoned pro, this immersive photo tour promises an adventure for photographers of all levels. All the images on this page were captured during previous Smid Photography photo expeditions to Madeira. You can explore the full gallery here.

If Madeira hasn’t completely enchanted you, don’t worry — we offer many more unforgettable photo expeditions to stunning locations across Europe and beyond. See all current photo tours here.

Want a taste of what it’s like to join us on a photo expedition to Madeira? Dive into this quick article and get a glimpse of the real adventure behind our photo tours.

🎯 Spots are limited

What You'll Learn

How to compose compelling landscape and seascape images
Workshop training in techniques for shooting single shots & single and multi-row panoramas
Using exposure bracketing, focus stacking, and star tracking
Creating technically perfect images in dynamic conditions
Mastering night photography and the Milky Way from high-altitude peaks
Basic/advanced post-processing workshop (included in evening sessions)
Who Is This Madeira Photography Expedition For?
This photo workshop is for photographers of all levels — from beginners to advanced shooters. You’ll receive personalized attention and learn advanced field and post-processing techniques at your pace.
Unlike typical group tours, this expedition is tailored. With up to 4 instructors and multiple vehicles, we adjust the program daily based on your skill, fitness, and goals — no one is left behind.

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Get expert tips from this video to elevate your photography game during our 2026 Madeira photo expedition. Don't miss out!

🗺️ What Will We See During the Madeira Expedition?

Our photo expedition doesn’t follow a rigid itinerary — and that’s by design. Instead, we adapt daily to the best possible light and weather conditions, so you can capture the stunning landscapes of Madeira at their very best.

Outside the key golden-hour and sunrise shoots, we explore the best of Madeira: lush valleys, dramatic cliffs, misty mountains, and charming coastal villages. You’ll experience both the island’s most famous sights and its secret, off-the-beaten-path gems.

We also incorporate documentary-style photography and sightseeing, ensuring that the journey is as enriching as it is beautiful.

📍 Highlights you may experience during the expedition include:

🌄 Pico Ruivo & Pico do Arieiro – Madeira’s highest peaks offering jaw-dropping panoramic views
🌴 Laurisilva Forests – UNESCO World Heritage site, shrouded in mist and mystery
🌊 Porto Moniz Natural Pools – stunning volcanic rock pools against a wild ocean backdrop
🏞️ Encumeada Viewpoint – panoramic views over the island’s rugged interior
🏖️ Santana – traditional thatched houses set against lush green hills
🏝️ Ponta de São Lourenço – dramatic coastal hike with breathtaking cliffs
🏙️ Funchal – vibrant city life, harbor views, and botanical gardens
🌺 Monte Palace – lush gardens, hidden walkways, and sweeping views of Funchal
🌅 Sunset at Cabo Girão – the world’s highest sea cliff, offering incredible ocean views
🌊 Ribeira da Janela – stunning sea formations and unique coastal rock structures
🌄 Levada Walks – scenic, tranquil hikes through Madeira’s famous levadas and valleys
🚶‍♂️ Off-the-Beaten-Path Trails – capture secluded spots with fewer tourists and incredible beauty

Whether you’re chasing iconic landscapes or hidden corners of Madeira, this expedition will offer a unique, unforgettable photographic experience.

Why Join This Jan Smid Photography Trip?

✅ Real Expertise, No Secrets
We believe in open knowledge sharing. You’ll learn the exact techniques and workflows we use in our award-winning photography — no hidden tricks, no vague advice.

✅ The Best (and Secret) Locations
Yes, we shoot iconic spots. But we focus on hidden gems other photographers rarely visit. Our deep knowledge of the island ensures you capture Madeira in a way most never do.

✅ Tailored Experience for Every Participant
Whether you're hiking-fit or prefer easy access, we've got you covered. With 3 instructors and multiple vehicles, we personalize the itinerary based on your physical ability — no one is left behind.

✅ Shoot in All Conditions
Madeira’s terrain is diverse. That means we always have a plan — whether it’s golden sunsets, misty forests, or dramatic seascapes in changing weather.

✅ Small Group, Big Value
With just 8 participants and up to 4 instructors, you'll get unmatched attention, guidance, and space to grow your skills.

✅ Relax in Style
After shooting, unwind at our private villa with ocean views, pool, and full kitchen. Or take a break at the beach — just minutes away.

📅 Dates: May 23–31, 2026
📍 Location: Madeira (Portugal)
👥 Participants: Max. 8
🎓 Instructors: Jan Šmíd (Master QEP), Martin Strouhal (QEP), Pavel Drexler (Adobe Certified Professional), Michael Prouza
💰 Price: 3990 USD / 3590 €
💼 Deposit: 1500 USD / 1500 €
🏡 Accommodation: Private luxury villa in the Funchal area
🍽 Meals: Local restaurants or self-catering in the villa
🌐 Language: English

Sign up

Sunset panorama over Pico Ruivo in Madeira, with golden light and dramatic clouds, photographed during a Smid Photography spring expedition.

Highlights of of the Madeira Photo Tour Spring 2026

✅ The best photo spots — including lesser-known hidden gems
✅ Flexible program based on daily weather forecasts
✅ Individualized attention with up to 4 instructors and only 8 participants
✅ Luxury villa with sea views, pool, and ideal access to locations
✅ Friendly, professional environment focused on growth and creativity
✅ Access to gear consulting & field test equipment (limited availability)

🟢 Physically Accessible Photo Tour – No Hiking Experience Needed

This photo workshop is designed to be physically easy and accessible. Most photo locations require only short walks or light hikes — no steep terrain, no heavy gear hauling.

For those who want more, we offer optional challenging hikes for sunrise or sunset locations.

Whether you prefer remote mountain ridges or coastal scenes near the road — we’ve got you covered.

✅ Everyone gets access to top photo spots.
✅ Every day is adjusted for weather and ability.

A lone tree shrouded in mystical morning fog in Madeira’s iconic Fanal forest — captured during a Smid Photography landscape expedition with Jan Šmíd.

Why Madeira is a Photographer’s Paradise 🌿

Often called the island of eternal spring, Madeira is a dream destination for landscape photographers. In late May, the island bursts into life — vibrant flowers, lush green terraces, and dramatic mountain formations create a canvas of endless inspiration.

Its unique tiered terrain resembles Asia’s iconic rice terraces, with picturesque villages tucked between steep peaks. The jagged coastlines and cliffs offer dramatic sunset shots and long exposure seascapes, while deep valleys and laurel forests provide intimate, misty scenes.

And when the sun sets, the real magic begins...

Thanks to clear skies, low light pollution, and high-altitude access, Madeira is among Europe’s top locations for Milky Way photography. In spring, you’ll experience extended astronomical twilight, making it perfect for night shooting. We’ll guide you to top spots like Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo (Madeira’s highest peak) to capture surreal astro-landscapes in ideal conditions.

📸 Whether you shoot with a DSLR, mirrorless, or mobile device, Madeira offers world-class opportunities for both daytime and night photography.

Astro Photography in Madeira

With its southern location, minimal light pollution, and access to elevations over 1800m, Madeira is one of the best places in Europe for night sky photography. In May, you'll have perfect Milky Way visibility and astronomical twilight. We’ll take you to elevated locations like Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo, ideal for capturing starscapes, star trails, and powerful night landscapes.

Behind-the-scenes footage from one of our previous spring photo expeditions to Madeira — dramatic seascapes, misty forests, and real-world landscape photography in action.

Recommended Equipment

You’ll get the most out of the expedition with a DSLR or mirrorless camera, a sturdy tripod, and a selection of wide-angle to telephoto lenses. However, even if you shoot exclusively with a mobile phone, you’re welcome to join — we tailor our approach to your gear and skill level.

Need help choosing or upgrading your equipment?

We offer gear consultations as part of your booking, completely free. Whether you're considering a new camera, unsure about your lens lineup, or need advice on tripods, filters, or weatherproof clothing — we’ll guide you before the expedition begins. 🎒 In select cases, we can also arrange test gear for you (limited availability).

After registration, you’ll receive a detailed list of recommended gear and preparation tips.

Wide panoramic sunrise over Pico do Arieiro, Madeira, captured during a Smid Photography spring expedition after a scenic mountain hike.

Master long exposure seascapes! Learn key techniques and gear insights — the perfect training ground for your next coastal photography expedition or workshop.

What’s Included in the Price What’s Not Included

✅ Expert Instruction
– Full-time guidance from up to four instructors, including Jan Šmíd (Master QEP)
– Personalized mentoring, daily image reviews, and evening lectures
– Techniques for single-shot, panoramic, and night photography
– Hands-on training in:
• Exposure bracketing
• Focus stacking
• Star tracking
• Basic/Advanced post-processing

✅ Accommodation
– 8 nights in a private luxury villa with breathtaking ocean views over Funchal
– Double rooms (single occupancy available for an additional fee)
– Villa features a pool, terraces, and a fully equipped kitchen

✅ Transportation
– All local transport included — day and night photo shoots
– Support for group flight coordination upon request

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

✅ Support & Atmosphere
– Friendly, small-group environment (max. 8 participants)
– All knowledge is shared openly — no hidden tricks

❌ International flights to and from Funchal

❌ Meals and personal expenses

❌ Entrance fees (where applicable)

Golden sunset light spills over cloud-filled valleys at Pico do Arieiro, Madeira — captured during a Smid Photography expedition led by Jan Šmíd.

How We Work: Flexible, Real-World Shooting (what about the itinerary)?

We often get asked:

“Where will we be shooting on Day 3?”
“What time is breakfast on Day 7?”
“Will we see spot X at sunset?”

Here’s our honest answer:
We don’t offer cookie-cutter travel itineraries — we run real photo expeditions.

Rather than following a fixed day-by-day plan, we design each shooting day based on the latest weather forecasts, light conditions, and local insight. This allows us to respond flexibly and make the most of every opportunity — sunrise, sunset, mist, clouds etc. Thanks to our experience and deep knowledge of Madeira’s terrain, we always choose the best location for each moment. Our primary focus is, of course, capturing top-quality landscape photos. However, in between the key photo sessions, we also explore the stunning sights of the Madeira Island. We visit iconic and lesser-known locations mentioned in the expedition introduction, combining guided sightseeing with documentary-style photography — all to give participants a truly unforgettable travel experience.

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

❓ Frequently Asked Questions: Madeira Spring Photo Workshop 2026

Both! This experience is structured as a full photo workshop – with field training, hands-on composition coaching, and guided night shooting – combined with a flexible photo expedition plan to match conditions each day.
No! This photo workshop is perfect for all levels. Whether you’re just starting out or want to master advanced techniques like exposure blending and star tracking, we tailor our guidance to each participant.
Evening sessions cover editing panoramas, blending exposures, and preparing professional-quality images using tools like Adobe Camera Raw, Photoshop, and PTGui – taught by award-winning photographer Jan Šmíd.