Wouldn’t it be wonderful to walk around and take pictures in a place where myths, battles, tropical beaches and locations meet at a magical point in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea? In a place where Asia and Africa try to touch Europe at its lowest part? This location is the island of Crete. Ancient and early history are beyond you and every single corner is full of stories, photographic locations and unique experiences!
Crete’s history is full of battles for freedom against the Venetians, Turks and Germans. Crete is the place where the Minoan civilisation flourished and it is believed that the Minoans were the first to have contributed to the creation of classical Greece.
We would like to present you the short history of Crete that has eleven main periods: Minoan, Subminoan, Geometric and Archaic period, Classical, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, the Turkish period and the modern times.
Day 1: Arrival at Chania port/airport and immediate transport to the Hotel, which is located in the historical centre of Chania. After settling down we take a walk in the town centre around the neoclassical buildings, while getting to know each other. Early dinner around 7p.m at a traditional greek restaurant. It already smells like Greece! (DINNER)
Day 2: Starting our day quite early by enjoying a delicious breakfast at the old port at Chania Town Centre. Back to the Hotel and off to Balos Lagoon, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Swimming in the blue lagoon, relaxing under the warm sun and photo shooting the majestic landscape until the sun sets. Back to Kissamos to rest and enjoy a relaxed night’s stroll along with a glass of wine, tasting traditional Cretan food. (BREAKFAST / LUNCH / DINNER)
Day 3: Starting the day at Kissamos village where we discuss technical details of today’s shooting. Arriving at Falasarna beach, a magnificent place full of lively colours. Enough energy is required since big waves are waiting for us in case of a windy day. Using underwater equipment to shoot while we enjoy every angle of the scenery (possibility to take surfing lessons). Leaving for Palaiochora to spend the rest of the day. At the Hotel, we’ll have a discussion about the main principles of photography. (BREAKFAST / LUNCH / DINNER)
Day 4: At the morning (if the weather favor us) we sail to Gavdos, the island located at the southern point of Europe.Thorough discussion on post production today during our trip. Arriving at Karave port and the positive energy of the island is already among us. Settling down at the room, able to spend a few hours to rest. Later in the afternoon, we’re visiting the exceptional lighthouse at the south part of the island. Back to the room after the sun sets, to discuss about photography, eat traditional dishes and taste raki, the local drink of Crete. (BREAKFAST / LUNCH / DINNER)
Day 5: Driving to the southern part of the island, right after breakfast and a fresh swim at the libyan sea. A mountainous landscape where peace and tranquility surpass. We arrive at Vatisiana, a small village full of intoxicating aromas of thyme and Cedrus (Juniperus). We walk down the hill to reach Tripiti beach while shooting the wild landscape. Swimming in crystal, clear blue water and photographing around the coast. Walking towards the famous chair at the southern part of the island. There is where we enjoy on of the most beautiful sunsets before returning to our rooms.(BREAKFAST / LUNCH / DINNER)
Day 6: Next morning we’re packing and sail back to Palaiochora. Once more the great beaches of Crete give us the opportunity to swim at Gialiskari, a wonderful beach close to the town centre. Having lunch at one of the many traditional taverns in a town that shares authentic greek characteristics. Able to rest or enjoy free time before walking and photographing around Palaiochora. Wonderful spots, hidden locations and the coexistence of nature and tradition all around us. Thorough discussion is the last chapter of our trip. During dinner, conclusions, tips and details are presented through everyone’s different point of view. (BREAKFAST / LUNCH / DINNER)
Day 7: Last day but for sure not least! Before returning to Chania, we make a stop at Elafonisi beach, one of the most famous beaches in the world. Turquoise water combined with pink sand, is for sure a scenery you’ve never met before. This is the place where you can walk around the sea and seaside at the same time! Back to Chania where we visit the Tabakaria district, a place of exceptional architectural and historical interest. Old factory buildings next to the sea create a scenery that has already inspired artists throughout the world (“Two faces of January” was filmed around this place). (BREAKFAST / LUNCH / DINNER)
Since we need to sail in order to reach half of our destinations, there is a possibility that changes might take place depending on the weather conditions (wind speed especially).
In Crete, summers are warm, bright and clear while the winters are not that long, cold and partly cloudy.
The warm season lasts for more than 4 months from June to September while the cool period starts mostly at the end of November. Average temperatures during those times are around 78°F (26°C warm season) and 53°F (12°C cool season) with an average daily high temperature above 77°F (25°C).
The coldest days of the year are considered to appear during February.
The wind experienced at any given location is highly dependent on local topography and other factors.
The average hourly wind speed in Crete experiences significant seasonal variation over the course of the year.
Most of our shooting locations are easily reachable during few minutes from the car. We will climb easily on one of the tours which will be optional. Rest of the locations need light walking.
Basic Knowledge on how to use your camera equipment
All type of cameras including mobile phones to medium format cameras.
Ideal: