This is the Tuscany that tourists don't get to see. Unpack and settle into our 15th century farmhouse resort, a little village actually with its own pools, restaurant and private apartments.
See and photograph the most famous landscapes and villages of the Val d'Orcia, pilgrimage sites for photographers from all over the world. Add to that secret locations that we've discovered in our 25 years photographing this region.
Being immersed into the culture of small local trattoria dining, visits with local characters and villages devoid of tourism better informs your photographs and enriches your Tuscan experience.
Inspiration is guaranteed!
Drake Busath - American Travel and Portrait Photographer
Gabriele Angelini - Italian Pro Photographer and licensed guide
This tour has a minimum group size of 6. You will receive a notification when the trip is confirmed.
You can check the 2026 TUSCANY TRIP PAGE to see if the minimum has been met and who's going. Or you can inquire here.
Secure your booking with a $500 deposit. The balance payment is due 120 days prior to your trip departure.
Accommodations 7 nights
All breakfasts plus 5 special meals
Master Photographer instruction
Full time guide
All Local Transfers
Departure Airport Transfer
Arrival to Florence, Italy
Travel Insurance
Hotel Incidentals
Drake Busath, Master Photographer
Drake founded Italy Workshops in 1999, bringing his passion for Italy and photography to a wider audience. Over the past five decades, he has either lived in or visited Italy frequently, immersing himself in its culture, history, and landscapes. Fluent in Italian, Drake has developed a deep affection and intimate understanding of the country. Hundreds of photographers have joined him on what he describes as a “personal Renaissance,” exploring the rich and diverse regions of Tuscany, Umbria, Liguria, Venice, Lake Como, the Dolomites, Puglia, the Amalfi Coast, and Sicily. Through his workshops, Drake offers a unique blend of artistic inspiration and cultural discovery, making each journey a memorable experience.
Gabriele Angelini, Instructor and Guide
Gabriele Angelini, Italian photographer and publisher from Imola, near Bologna, is known for his big smile, infectious passion for street photography, and deep knowledge of Italian photographic history. Former photography instructor at the University of Bologna, he has worked for years as a photographer in Tuscany and knows the region intimately. He enriches every journey with unique cultural insights, local connections, and a love for Italy’s traditions. Living in Emilia Romagna, the heart of classic Italian cuisine, he’s the perfect guide to pair unforgettable images with equally unforgettable food and wine.
Join pro photographer Gabriele Angelini as he shows you his favorite spots. Visit the most photogenic sites, meet local artisans, and indulge in local cuisine as you can only do with a local friend.
Higlights
Discover secret corners of Florence
See Renaissance art without the crowds
Meet and photograph local artisans
Enjoy an authentic Florentine dinner
Visit the most photogenic locations at the optimal times of day
Full time guide 1 -1/2 days
Welcome dinner
All. entrance fees
Arrival to Florence
Accommodations (see recommended Florence hotels below)
There are a multitude of hotels and B&B options in Florence. Here are a few in which we've had good experiences:
If less than three guests register for the extension they will have the option of canceling or opting for a slightly higher "micro-group" price.
We recommend flying to the Florence FLR Airport. A 15 minute taxi gets you to your hotel in town.
9:00 AM- Meet us in Florence at Piazzale Michelangelo to load up the vans and head to San Gimignano (about 1 hr)
After lunch continue with us to Siena
Stroll the perfect medieval town with our favorite local guide Claudia. Soak in the beauty and rich history.
Then enjoy a welcome dinner in one of the most iconic restaurants of Siena for our first taste of true Tuscan cuisine.
And yes! Wine and beverages are always included.
Just south of Siena is our farmhouse stay: Borgo Pieve a Salti. Drake has hosted workshops here each year since 1999. We're pretty sure you'll feel at home here the way we do.
Begin each day with a farm-fresh breakfast and 360 degree views you won’t believe.
The rolling hills of the Val d'Orcia cover an area coveted by landscape photographers world wide.
We'll stop to photograph the most famous views at prime times, but also our favorite secret locations.
Dine family style at authentic trattorie where the locals eat and experience the true essence of Tuscan cuisine. We'll skip the tourist food and indulge in the real thing, savoring traditional dishes prepared with love and care. Enjoy the warm atmosphere and friendly service that these hidden gems offer, allowing you to connect with the local culture and flavors. Each meal becomes a memorable experience, filled with laughter and shared stories as you enjoy delicious food that has been passed down through generations. Join us for an unforgettable culinary journey that will leave your taste buds delighted and your heart full.
Dive deeper into villages and landscapes of the Crete Senesi, much less traveled but equally jaw dropping for photographers. A working monastery with wine tasting, meet ups with local characters and true Tuscan meals dot this itinerary and make it an authentic visit you won't forget.
Wrap up our week with a relaxed morning in Buonconvento, our "home town" just 5km from our farmhouse.
Tourists don't know about this place and we like it that way. Meet some great old characters and experience truly authentic Tuscany lifestyle.
We'll help you with train tickets from the Siena Station to Florence ( 1 hour direct train) or anywhere else you're headed.
In Italy, eating well, or "mangiare bene," is essential to the travel experience. Each region boasts its own specialties, so we take the extra time to discover the best little trattorias where you can enjoy authentic local cuisine.
Dining family-style and asking for a variety of the chef's recommendations is a favorite way to share meals with our groups. Everyone gets to taste everything and enjoy as much as they like.
Of course, wine and soda are included with our meals.
Immersing yourself in a local region's culinary traditions enhances your photography, making it more informed and authentic.
