The Limestone Studio, Dordogne, France
The Limestone Studio rests in the gentle folds of the Dordogne — a place where time seems to move more slowly. Here, in soft light and quiet, we make photographs with old cameras and patient hands. The darkroom hums with the scent of collodion and fixer; antique lenses wait on the shelves, their glass worn with history. Beyond the door, the world opens to misty mornings, ancient villages, and sun-warmed stone — the perfect companion to the craft we’ll practice inside. This is a studio made not only for working, but for breathing, thinking, seeing.
Your Host & Instructor
I’m John Higginson, photographer, printmaker, and lifelong student of light and time. My work is rooted in the old ways: glass plates, silver salts, and the patient rhythm of the darkroom. These workshops are more than technique; they are an invitation to slow down, to see with care, and to create images that feel timeless, touched by hand and heart. Whether you come to rediscover the craft or to try something utterly new, you’ll find these days shaped by generosity, curiosity, and quiet joy.
Experience You Can Trust
Before turning to fine art photography, I spent over 40 years as an international advertising photographer, producing large-scale shoots for clients such as BMW, Lexus, and Range Rover. I was represented by agents in London, New York, and Los Angeles, and worked across the world with global teams to bring complex productions to life, balancing creative vision with practical logistics. That experience now shapes the way I run workshops: thoughtfully planned, smoothly executed, and always with space for creativity to unfold. You can relax knowing that everything is taken care of, leaving you free to focus on the work, the craft, and the joy of making photographs.
You can see a selection of my commercial and editorial work here: www.johnhigginson.art/work.
The Process
This is photography as it once was — elemental, deliberate, and full of wonder. Wet plate collodion on glass, silver gelatin prints, albumen paper: each step invites attention and care. You’ll pour plates by hand, frame portraits in soft natural light, and watch images bloom slowly in the darkroom trays. For those who wish, these time-honoured methods can blend with modern digital tools — but always the heart of the process remains: slow, thoughtful, and deeply human. The camera becomes not just a tool but a companion; the photograph, not a file but an object to hold, to keep.
Who are these photography workshops for?
Our workshops are designed for anyone passionate about analog photography, from complete beginners to experienced image-makers looking to deepen their skills in wet-plate collodion and other historic processes.
What processes do you teach?
We specialise in traditional analog techniques including wet-plate collodion (tintypes and ambrotypes), silver and lith printing, and other historic methods of image-making. All workshops are hands-on and rooted in a relaxed, creative, rural environment.
Do I need to bring any equipment?
No. We provide all cameras (including original large-format models from the 19th century), chemicals, darkroom materials, and safety gear. Just bring curiosity, a notebook, and a willingness to explore.
Where are you located?
We’re based in a quiet corner of southwest France, surrounded by wooded hills and open skies, an ideal setting for focused, creative work. Our workshops take place at the nearby Domaine de Cazenac, as well as in our own converted limestone barn studio, fully equipped with a traditional darkroom and daylight shooting space. Full travel details are shared after booking.
Is accommodation included?
Yes. All workshops include accommodation in beautifully appointed rooms, as well as home-cooked seasonal meals, drinks, and full access to the studio, darkroom, and outdoor spaces.
Will we be working with models?
Yes, in our longer workshops, we collaborate with experienced fine art models. These are guided, respectful sessions focused on creating intimate, expressive photographs rooted in trust, presence, and artistic intent.
Is this workshop suitable for total beginners?
Absolutely. No previous experience is required. The workshops are designed to meet each participant where they are, whether you're discovering film photography for the first time or returning to analogue after years in digital.
Can I continue working after hours?
Yes. The darkroom is available to use outside of scheduled sessions, and many participants find quiet evening hours perfect for printing or reflecting on the day's work.
What language are the workshops in?
Workshops are taught in English. Some French is spoken, but all instruction and materials are delivered in English to support our international participants.
How long are the workshops?
Workshops typically run from 3 to 7 days, though one-to-one sessions can be arranged for shorter durations. Each includes structured instruction, guided studio work, model sessions, and time to rest, reflect, or explore the surrounding countryside.
What’s the group size?
Workshops range from one-to-one mentoring to small groups of around eight participants. This allows for individual guidance, a collaborative atmosphere, and plenty of space and time for everyone to work at their own pace.
How do I book a spot?
Simply send us a message through the contact form or email us directly. Spaces are limited and tend to fill quickly, especially for the collodion sessions. We’re happy to answer any questions before you commit.
Who runs the workshops?
John Higginson, an internationally experienced photographer with over 40 years in the industry, guides each workshop with care and attention, making sure everything runs smoothly so you can focus on creating and enjoying your photography.
FAQs