INTO BRANDYWINE VALLEY WE GO
Historic Colors: A Fall Photography Retreat in Brandywine Valley, Delaware
Into Brandywine Valley We Go
WHEN: October 21st-24th, 2026
Cost: $1600
Registration is open!
Registration is open!
CALLING ALL CREATIVE SOULS
Who is this for?
This photography retreat is perfect for anyone with a love for travel, a sense of adventure, and a creative soul. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned photographer, this retreat is designed to help you improve your skills and capture stunning images in some of the world’s most beautiful locations. It’s also a great opportunity for women who are looking to connect with like-minded individuals and explore new places in a supportive and inspiring environment. So if you’re ready to take your photography to the next level and embark on an unforgettable journey, this retreat is for you!
What will I learn?
What You’ll Learn:
-
Mastering Natural Light in Transitional Seasons: Learn to work with the softer, angled light of autumn — golden hour techniques, backlighting foliage for glow, and controlling contrast in mixed-light environments.
- Compositions in Rolling Landscapes: Develop techniques for using leading lines, layering, and framing to capture the drama and dimension of the Brandywine Valley
- Capturing Texture and Mood in Rustic Architecture: Explore how to photograph historic buildings and barns, emphasizing texture, patina, and age through shadow play, detail shots, and environmental context.
-
Macro Techniques for Fall Botanicals: Get hands-on with close-up photography of fading flowers and seedheads. We will explore depth of field and abstract compositions.
-
Creating Cohesive Visual Stories: Build a visual story through intentional shot selection, color theory (especially with fall palettes), and use of textures
-
Editing with Seasonal Sensitivity: Learn post-processing techniques to enhance the warmth and richness of fall without overcooking the colors — subtlety in saturation, contrast, and clarity will be key.
With personalized guidance, hands-on practice, and plenty of inspiration, you’ll leave this trip with new skills, confidence, and an incredible collection of photos!
Itinerary
Sunrises at 7:30 AM
Sunsets at 6:00 PM
Wednesday – Arrival & Sunset Shoot
4:00 PM | Meet in the hotel lobby for a warm welcome, introductions, and a rundown of our sunset plans.
5:00 PM | Depart for our first sunset session (location to be announced). Sunset is at 6:15 PM—be ready for glowing golden light to kick off the trip!
Thursday – Longwood Gardens (All Day Adventure)
9:30 AM | Depart for Longwood Gardens
Enjoy a full day photographing world-class conservatories, fountains, seasonal displays, and endless botanical beauty.
Lunch together at the café.
We will wrap before sunset.
Dinner on your own to rest, recharge, or explore at your pace.
Friday – Winterthur Gardens & Historic Home
9:00 AM | Depart with a quick coffee/snack stop at Brew HaHa for anyone who needs it.
10:00 AM–3:00 PM | Explore the expansive Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library—1,000 acres of rolling hills, meadows, woodlands, and storybook paths. A tram is available for those who prefer less walking.
On-site lunch is available (please review the café menu in advance).
3:00 PM | Break – Return to hotel.
5:00 PM | Sunset session at Brandywine Park—classic bridges, river views, and late-day golden light.
Saturday – Hagley Museum & Gardens
7:00 AM | Optional sunrise shoot
9:00 AM–3:00 PM | Depart for a day at Hagley. Grab lunch to-go before arrival.
Discover the original du Pont family estate along the Brandywine River, historic powder yards with stone ruins, and a fully operating 16-foot water wheel.
Photographic highlights include:
-
1804 restored French-style garden
-
Vivid fall textures and color
-
The atmospheric Crowninshield Garden ruins with Italian-inspired stonework
- Workshop commences at 3 PM
*itinerary is subject to changes
What is Included in the price?
Photography instruction, Admission fees to places we will visit.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED?
Airfare, transportation to the workshop (we will carpool during), travel insurance, meals eaten out, lodging – we have a block of rooms reserved, you will book your own room. We have six single rooms and one 2 bed/2 bath room reserved.
🍁 Fall Color Disclaimer
Please note that while we plan our events during typical peak foliage times, fall colors are never guaranteed. Weather patterns, temperature, and rainfall can all impact timing and vibrancy. No matter the foliage, we promise a beautiful experience full of adventure and inspiration!
How Do I Get there?
There will be a Facebook group made for the retreat where you can try to arrange sharing car rentals with other participants.
Lodging
We’re staying at the Inn at Montchanin Village. We have a block of rooms held in our name. Students will book and pay for their own rooms.
Lodging booking instructions will be sent to you upon registering.
About the Inn:
Listed on the National Historic Register, The Inn at Montchanin Village & Spa was once a part of the Winterthur Estate and was named for Alexandria de Montchanin, grandmother of the founder of the DuPont Company.
In eleven carefully restored buildings dating from 1799, there are 28 richly furnished guest rooms/suites appointed with period and reproduction furniture and marble baths with all the amenities a demanding and sophisticated traveler would desire.
Most rooms have beautifully manicured private courtyards and several have cozy fireplaces.
One of the few remaining villages of its kind, the settlement was home to laborers who worked at the nearby DuPont powder mills.
Today, The Inn at Montchanin Village & Spa is a proud member of Historic Hotels of America providing a distinctive blend of historic charm, luxury and modern comforts.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions.
What gear do I need?
Please view my recommended gear list here: https://intothewildwego.photography/photography-gear-reccomendations/
What is your cancellation policy?
You can view all my Terms and Conditions here: https://intothewildwego.photography/terms-and-conditions/
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Lori Lankford is a seasoned nature photographer and digital artist celebrated for her unique perspective behind the lens. She is passionate about capturing the beauty of flowers, crafting abstract landscape scenes, and exploring creative close-ups. For the past six years, she has dedicated herself to sharing her expertise through teaching and leading workshops.
Three years ago, Lori joined the Women’s Photography Circle teaching team. There, she shares her passion by teaching online courses such as Lightroom and A Year of Creative Photography. Her goal is to help you see the world in a fresh new way and then capture it with your camera! Lori’s favorite places to travel are Charleston, Big Sur, and the Smokey Mountains, where she grew up. She also lived in Texas for 10 years, so is quite familiar with the area.
