Lens & Larder is a series of creative learning retreats organised my the amazing Cliodhna Prendergast from breaking eggs and Imen Mc Donnell from Modern Farmette.

Last November, I attended a Lens and Larder retreat in the depths of Connemara. A group of eleven of us were taught by the fabulous Andrea Gentl, Martin Hyers , Susan Spungen. I feel like the luckiest girl to have had the opportunity to spend time and learn from these guys.

The retreat took place in the beautiful Ballynahinch Castle and our days were spent building feasts, meeting local producers, learning about styling and light, and exploring the special Connemara coastline.

A big highlight of the weekend was a massive colourful feast that was set out on a large table. We had the opportunity to capture it as a whole and to deconstruct it. We pulled out elements and put together our own setups, allowing us to get creative with these lady’s amazing food and props.

Each activity within the course brought something new to learn and gave us the opportunity to test and push our ability to capture something special. It was a serious treat to have such an amazing set up and left me feeling inspired and refreshed.

Saveur Magazine’s Best Food Blog Photographer 2015, Renée Kemps, will be the host for the next Lens and Larder workshop, which will take place at the beguiling Irish country estate, Ballyvolane House, April 26-29th, 2016.

I feel very excited for the next bunch of photographers who get to experience this special retreat and wish them the very best in what promises to be another exciting couple of days.

© 2016 Andrea Lucy | Food photographer & Food stylist | Ireland