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2026 Summer Island Photography Retreat


  • Amber Braxton Fine Art Whidbey Island Coupeville, WA United States (map)

Whidbey Island Summer Photography Retreat

June 26–28 | Whidbey Island, Washington

Spend three days photographing the wild coastal beauty of Whidbey Island while deepening your photography skills alongside other creatives.

This retreat is designed for photographers who want more than just beautiful photos. It is an opportunity to slow down, observe the rhythms of nature, and learn how to translate those moments into meaningful images.

Over the course of the retreat we will photograph sunrises, beaches, tide pools, historic waterfronts, gardens, and dramatic coastal landscapes. Along the way you will receive hands-on instruction in landscape photography, macro photography, composition, and editing techniques.

Together we will explore some of the most inspiring locations on the island, including Coupeville Wharf, Deception Pass, and the stunning Meerkerk Gardens.

Whether you are just beginning your photography journey or looking to deepen your creative practice, this retreat offers a supportive environment to learn, explore, and connect.

What You’ll Experience

• Sunrise and sunset photography sessions
• Guided coastal and wildlife photography opportunities
• Ethical tidepool exploration and marine photography
• Architectural photography in historic Coupeville
• Macro photography in Meerkerk Gardens
• Hands-on editing instruction in Lightroom and Photoshop
• Image critique and creative feedback
• A supportive group of fellow photographers
• Time to slow down and reconnect with nature

Retreat Packages

All-Inclusive Retreat

$875 per person ($795 for early bird booking! Only TWO available)

Includes:

• 2 nights lodging on Whidbey Island, 3 days!
• Transportation to photography locations
• 5 group meals ($125 gift card)
• Admission to Meerkerk Gardens
• Sunrise and sunset photography sessions
• Editing workshops in Lightroom and Photoshop
• Personalized instruction and guidance throughout the retreat
• Group image sharing and reflection session

Perfect for photographers who want a fully immersive retreat experience.

Photography Experience Package

$350 per person ($275 for early bird booking! Only TWO available!)

Includes:

• All guided photography outings
• Editing sessions and instruction
• Creative feedback and group image critique

Does not include lodging, meals, transportation, or garden admission.

This option is perfect for local photographers or those staying elsewhere on the island.

Early Bird Pricing

To reward early registrations, a limited number of early bird spots are available.

Early Bird All-Inclusive

$795 - Only 2 available!

Early Bird Photography Experience

$295 - Only 2 available!

Early bird pricing is available until early bird spots fill.

Payment Options

Reservation Deposit

All-Inclusive Retreat
$250 deposit

Photography Experience
$100 deposit

Deposits secure your space in the retreat and are non-refundable.

Remaining Balance

The remaining balance is due 30 days before the retreat (May 26).

Optional Payment Plan

For participants who prefer to split payments, we can set this up however is convenient for you!

Who This Retreat Is For

This retreat is ideal for:

• Beginner to intermediate photographers
• Nature lovers and creatives
• Photographers interested in landscape, wildlife, and macro photography
• Anyone looking for a supportive environment to grow creatively

All camera types are welcome, including DSLR, mirrorless, and advanced phone cameras.

Limited Spots Available

To keep the experience personal and hands-on, this retreat is limited to a small group of photographers.

Once the retreat fills, registration will close.

Reserve Your Spot

To reserve your space, submit a form through this link here: BOOK YOUR EXPERIENCE

Once your deposit is received, you will receive a confirmation email with additional details including packing suggestions, itinerary information, a waiver, and retreat preparation tips.

Earlier Event: December 6
Photo walk: Northwest Railway Museum