We have crafted a wedding photography retreat like no other. An experience that will ignite your passion, elevate your skills, empower you to become the best version of yourself and light a fire in your soul.
Join us for 3 nights and 4 days on the beautiful Cornish coast – to learn, connect, share and grow as photographers, business owners and people. We curate the Great Escape to be the perfect schedule of presentations, group discussions and live shoots. Plus plenty of down time and holistic activities to enrich your soul and allow you to rejuvenate and recharge in the rural luxury of Kilminorth Cottages.
Immerse Yourself in Inspiration: Unleash your creative potential as you surround yourself with a tribe of passionate wedding photographers who share the same struggles, pain-points and goals as you do. Together, we’ll push boundaries, inspire one another and we’ll leave ready to achieve our goals.
Unparalleled Education: A comprehensive blend of guest speakers, masterclasses, discussions, and late night talks that go way beyond just photography techniques. From marketing strategies to expert insights and SEO tactics – we’ll learn in different formats – keynote talks, group discussions and mentor sessions around the campfire.
Tailored Experiences: We’ve designed The Great Escape with your needs in mind. Attend as little or as many of the organised schedule as you like. The perfect balance between education, relaxation, and connection. It’s your retreat, your way.
Website Review sessions: Have a 1-2-1 website review session on the design, functionality and user experience of your site, and have areas for improvement highlighted.
Community Over Competition: Experience the power of community as you connect with fellow photographers who understand your journey. Together, we’ll embark on adventures, share unforgettable stories and good times, and build a supportive network that extends far beyond the retreat.
Beyond Photography: This retreat is more than the sum of its parts. It’s a safe space for creativity and growth to flourish, where you’ll find guidance, encouragement, and the tools to transform your artistry and business.
“The Great Escape 2024 by far exceeded my expectations. Living onsite with everyone, I felt, afforded time and space to leave phones and the online world behind for the most-part. Time and space for established friendships to deepen, new friendships to form, authentically and spontaneously . I genuinely felt every one attending was their authentic self, something that often isn’t the case at large events. Zero egos, hierarchy or posturing, instead a beautifully chilled bunch of welcoming souls who all just “got it”
– AMY SAMPSON, Great Escapee 2024.
“The thing I love about Nine Dots and especially this Great Escape is that there’s no judgement and we all just accept one another for who we are. Introvert or extrovert, drinking or sober – it doesn’t matter. We see the value in each other and that means the world to me. So, thank you all for that and especially Rahul and Andy because that whole vibe is created by you two.”
– Gary Williams, Great Escape attendee ’24.
Indulge yourself at our handpicked location. Kilminorth cottages, an ancient Cornish manor farm, now converted into a private village of luxury holiday cottages. Nestled between the stunning harbour villages of Looe and Polperro, you’re a stones-throw from the Coastal Path, which will lead you to several nearby beaches – from the bustling to the near-unknown. It’s the perfect setting for our Great Escape.
Cobbled courtyards give way to beautifully landscaped gardens, all tucked away in Cornish woodland. Plus, with private hot tubs, private outdoor swimming pool and full-board catering all provided for you (including a special group beach bbq meal with a local private chef) – you’ll be perfectly placed to relax, recharge and learn.
We know that your privacy and personal space is important, so every attendee will have their own private room. The beautiful grounds and surrounding countryside of the cottages provide ample space to gather your own thoughts in between learning sessions and activities.
The group mentor sessions and learning schedule is designed to ensure you’ll have plenty of free time to sample all the holistic activities that the location offers you. Choose from various solo or group activities, with options like horse riding, surfing, sailing all on your doorstep. Or just kick back in the pool – whatever you choose to do (or not) do!) you’ll leave relaxed and recharged.
These cottages aren’t just backdrops; they’re a wellspring of inspiration that’ll push you to think outside the box, refresh your perspective and allow you to reflect on your goals in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere.
“…it was all thanks to the people. I think I spoke to everyone (though my apologies if it was brief chats with some of you) and I definitely left knowing everyone’s name, a little bit of everyone’s story and – I genuinely mean this – liking every single one of you.”
– Ronan Palliser, Great Escape attendee, 2024.
“It’s been an amazing few days. Just what I needed. And, although I love the larger NineDots Gathering event, this was special on a different level. I had chance to connect with people that I’ve met before, instead of just having a brief conversation in between talks. The vibe of the Great Escape / retreat was so good. I hope it’s the first of many!”
– Andy Li, Great Escapee ’24
The NineDots Great Escape offers a holistic learning experience. One where ideas and best practices are shared around the campfire, and portfolio reviews and advice are swapped during alfresco lunches or walks on the beach!
Additionally, we will be gathering a team of exceptional educators who will deliver masterclasses and sessions covering various aspects of being a successful wedding photographer. Topics include areas such as sales and marketing, business strategies, portrait shoots, and documentary photography. You can also expect talks on emotional and personal development, providing you with tools to improve work-life balance, prevent burnout, and create a less stressful and happier business (and life!).
Moreover, our educators will be of course be available for informal discussions, allowing you to exchange tips, tricks, and ideas. This collaborative atmosphere ensures that your experience at “The Great Escape” exceeds expectations and really is more than the sum of its parts. Stay tuned for announcements regarding additional educators and presenters!
“…it was all thanks to the people. I think I spoke to everyone (though my apologies if it was brief chats with some of you) and I definitely left knowing everyone’s name, a little bit of everyone’s story and – I genuinely mean this – liking every single one of you.”
– Ronan Palliser, Great Escape attendee, 2024.
£770 – NineDots Members
£990 – Non-Members
per person price based on a private room in a shared cottage.
Secure your place with a £295 deposit* – with the remainder payable Feb 2025.
Cottages have either 2 or 3 rooms. If you book together in a group, please contact us so we can allocate you a cottage together. If not, we will connect you with your housemate/s prior to arrival.
*NineDots member deposit: £295. Non-members: £475
Luxury Accommodation: You’ll have the pleasure of staying in your own private bedroom within beautiful shared luxury cottages. With access to hot tubs and swimming pool.
Meals and Refreshments: We’ve got your taste buds covered! Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all included, and we’ll make sure you’re well-fed throughout the retreat.
Guest Speakers, Masterclasses and Discussions: Prepare to expand your knowledge and skills with our range of masterclasses and discussions with guest speakers. We’ve got you covered on photography techniques, business strategies, marketing insights, SEO tips, posing guidance, and much more. It’s a treasure trove of knowledge designed to level up your game.
Headshot Swaps: Headshot swaps are valuable learning experiences. We can observe how our peers approach portraits, pick up new techniques, and gain insights into posing, composition, and lighting. Experimentation is encouraged, fostering growth and innovation. And its always good to see how it feels on the other side of the camera!
Extra Curricular and Holistic Activities: We believe in nurturing your mind, body, and soul. That’s why we offer a variety of additional activities for you to enjoy during your retreat. Whether it’s finding your Zen with meditation, getting your heart pumping with a run along the beach, or taking leisurely walks by the shore, there’s something for everyone.
Optional Group and Solo Adventures: If you’re up for even more excitement, we’ve got you covered. Take your pick from a range of optional activities at an additional charge to further enrich your experience. Fancy a thrilling horse riding session, catching some waves with surfing lessons, sailing across serene waters, kayaking through picturesque landscapes, or embarking on a fishing trip? These fantastic adventures are all conveniently available nearby.
So get ready for a retreat that offers it all—luxury accommodation, delectable meals, knowledge-packed workshops, inclusive portfolio sessions, rejuvenating activities, and thrilling optional adventures. We’ve curated an unforgettable experience that’s tailored to cater to your interests and passions.
