Workshop Details

Making this visit especially timely, Valletta, Malta will be hosting the title of European Capital of Culture in 2018!

At the cross-roads of history and central to the Mediterranean, Malta is a romantic and uniquely situated island country.

Ruled by Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Moors, Normans, Sicilians, Spanish, the Knights of St. John, the French, and (up until 1964) the British, Malta boasts some of the oldest free-standing structures in the world, numerous incredible fortifications, and a capital (Valletta) that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its entirety.

Because of its unique attributes, history, location, and size, Malta presents great photographic opportunities in a very manageable environment.

You’ll walk the fabled cobble-stoned streets, stairs, and ramparts of Valletta with your camera, explore locations known only to locals, and enjoy legendary Maltese hospitality.

In the evening, when you’re not photographing sunset or the night sky, your instructor will critique the group's photos and work on extending your range of photographic techniques.

Welcome to Malta

The country of Malta is a small archipelago in the Mediterranean roughly equidistant from Sicily and the North African coast.

Malta is a member of the European Union. English is one of the two official languages (the other is Maltese).

The workshop will primarily be based in Valletta, the capital of Malta, with several days to explore the smaller, more laid-back island of Gozo.

Where You'll Stay

The group will meet at a luxurious 5-star hotel adjacent to the main gates to the ancient fortified city of Valletta.

You will explore Valletta and the surrounding areas such as Birgu and Sliema on foot over the course of several days with the assistance of professional guides as well as docents from the Malta Photographic Society.

In addition, excursions will include:

• A sunset harbor cruise of Valletta and the surrounding areas
• Special boat tour of the Blue Grotto designed to allow for photography
• The fabulous fishing harbor at Marsaxlokk
• A sunset visit to the citadel at Mdina
• Tour of the world-famous neolithic sites with a local archaeology expert

Besides your time on the main island of Malta, you’ll also travel by private bus and the ferry to the island of Gozo, where you will spend two nights.

Gozo is likely the island famed in antiquity called Ogygia, where Calypso lived. Limerick poet extraordinaire Edward Lear described its coastal scenery as “ponskizillious and gromphiberous, being as no other words can describe its magnificence.”

On Gozo, you will visit sea cliffs, salt pans, small villages, churches, and beaches. When (alas!) your time on Malta draws to a close on Monday, November 12 2018, transfer to the airport for return to the United States or further adventures in Europe is included.

Testimonials

Here’s what some participants in past Harold Davis Workshops had to say:

“A great artist and speaker!”—W. Anglin

“Harold is genuine, generous, and gracious – He has a world of knowledge and expertise that he loves to share – his wonderful books show his monumental talents and skill set- his workshops shows the depth of his connecting with others in a very real and personal way.”—P. Borrelli

“Awesome! He patiently addressed questions from the audience which contained photographers of all levels , molding his answers to the level of understanding for each of us. His presentations covered a wonderful range of technical knowledge as well as emphasizing the need for images to have an emotional quality. The images he shares are breathtaking and he is generous in sharing many facets of how he captures such beauty.”—J. Phillips

“Not all photographers are good verbal communicators. Harold is someone who can DO and TEACH. A rare combination of talents.”—B. Sawyer

“Inspiring!”

“He was very giving of his talents and time. The course was very organized and thorough. Loved it! Learned so much! … I also wanted to let you know that I have more than paid the cost of the workshops I’ve done with you by selling some photos! I have sold three prints already.”—L. Beck

“Very creative and a marvelous instructor.”—Kay S.