TESTIMONIALS

I just attended a 2 hour zoom presentation with Shona. She shared images with detailed information on how she got the shot. I am so excited now to go out and try ICM using the techniques that she explained so well. In fact, she was such a good teacher, I am considering signing up for a workshop in 2026. 

- Kahsia H

Shona is a well-organized, excellent teacher. She openly shares with her students everything she has learned over her long experience. 

- Lucia C

I am the proud owner of these two prints, a wonderful and generous present from my husband! I can't describe the joy and calm I feel when looking at these scenes. It was so hard to choose which ones to order, as all of Shona's images are so beautiful, but in the end, I decided that the ones that really provoked emotion in me were the ones that would  give me the most pleasure. 

They arrived on time, beautifully and safely packaged and the quality of the prints is outstanding. I can't wait to get them framed and on the wall for all to enjoy.

- Cathering B

 . . . the Isle of Harris? To say that I was shocked by my first few steps on the magnificent Luskentyre Beach would be a tremendous understatement! What a remarkable setting for any kind of photography but combined with Shona's expert patience and constructive technique demonstration, I was able to capture and bring home some of my favorite images ever. ICM is a fun and effective way to add a new dimension to your photography. Whether you shoot landscape, wildlife, architecture or street, adding an abstract element to your capabilities will serve you well. And if you already shoot ICM, this might be the best place ever to do it. Shona is a fun, smart and talented photographer who really enjoys these trips and her enjoyment is infectious. You'll love it. 

- Michael Cohen

Along the hills of Scotland's Pride
In the dunes down by the sea
The mighty Atlantic sweeps the tide
To the place she loves to be

With Special People walking along
With spray and wind from the viridescent sea
The feeling that we truly belong
On an amazing workshop with Shona P

- Neil Jackson 

What can I say? To spend six days in what must be one of the most beautiful places I've ever been to with Shona and five other photographers. From the get-go Shona radiated warmth, passion and professionalism. She gave of herself to everyone in the group - all the time keeping a gentle eye on who may need a little extra help and guidance. Her knowledge of the islands was second to none and throughout the whole holiday one sensed how proud she was - not just our location but also in what she represents in the world of ICM. (Not in a big headed way). . just that gentle, quiet confidence she had. 

The ratio between being out in the field and post production back at the cosy hotel was well balanced. . . there was even time for a little downtime. 

I am an ICM photographer but found Shona’s knowledge invaluable whilst photographing seascapes. I loved every minute of my time in Scotland and spending time with likeminded people. I will never forget this holiday and wholeheartedly recommend photography holidays with Shona and My Beautiful Scotland. 

Thank you Shona and I will see you next year! 

- Anna Briggs 

I was initially skeptical of ICM as a technique, having seen a wide variety of styles and standards online that don't resonate with me. However, Shona and Marks' images have consistently appealed to me, especially as a photographer who already enjoys coastal photography and I was keen to learn how they produce such beautiful work. 

One thing I did know about ICM, having tried it a few times, is that it is not as easy as it might first look. Shona and Mark are masters of the genre so were able to prime us with enough foundational information, tips, and myth busting, as was needed to ensure we were able to capture beautiful and intriguing images as soon as we were on location. I was surprised and delighted by what I was able to capture during the day, and when I found myself struggling with a new scene and how best to capture it, Mark and Shona were always available to answer my questions. 

Having looked through my images, I can certainly understand why the technique appeals so much. I came away from a thoroughly enjoyable day fully motivated to get out and produce more ICM photographs. If you're interested in trying your hand at ICM, Shona and Mark will provide all the expertise, inspiration, support and encouragement you'll need.

- Phil Newberry

The reviews gush and quite rightly so! Passion, enthusiasm, energy and patience are all words to describe Shona's approach to tutoring. 

I treated myself to a 1-1 in West Wittering on the south coast of England for a big birthday and was not expecting to come away so enthused and genuinely pleased with a couple of shots in particular. Ok, I have a lot to learn, but Shona has opened my eyes to a fresh way of looking at scenes, no matter whether presented with harsh midday light, stormy conditions or the times you are treated to those subtle pinks of pre dawn gorgeousness. 

Her explanations, demonstrations and analysis of her own and my shots were appreciated and most importantly, I can see where I have gone wrong and analyse the effects of any changes that I then make. Yes, she makes it look easy but it's also so helpful to be able to have a tutor critique their own work in front of you. Watching her adapt and explore the results was a very valuable part of the session. One week later I'm still buzzing from the experience and can't wait to try out what I have learnt on my next adventures. Shona, you rock. Thank you! 

I have followed Shona for some time now and been fortunate enough to sit in on a few of her Zoom presentations on how she approaches and creates her amazing ICM seascape images. 

My husband and I are travelling from New Zealand and being in her locality I knew we had to book a 1:2:1 with her. We were delighted to complete this in ideal conditions on the East Lothian coast recently. 

Shona's passion for her artistry shines through at all times and her patience and teaching skills are outstanding. While nervous to begin with, both my husband and I quickly relaxed and began to understand her techniques and camera movements, even managing to create some (hopefully) very pleasing results. We can't wait to play with these newfound skills when we travel to the Outer Hebrides and create some magic of our own. 

We so enjoyed meeting Shona and cannot recommend her highly enough. If you have the opportunity to participate in one of her workshops, seize it. Being at one with nature while creating filled our souls and we left our session feeling very fulfilled and happy. Thank you so much for fitting us in to your busy schedule Shona. 

- Moira Blincoe

THANK YOU FOR THE AMAZING, INSPIRING,  JOYFILLED DAY,  YESTERDAY!!! 

It was divinely perfect.  Your mentoring skills and knowledge base are over the top. 

Grateful I made the decision to connect with you. I am returning home feeling empowered and excited about further explorations into ICM. 

- Mary DesJardins

When I woke on Friday morning, I thought ‘oh no’. The mist was thick and there was a light drizzle, not ideal for a photography workshop on the coast, I thought. Shona’s first words however were, don’t worry, it’s perfect, and the day just got better from there. 

After coffee and cake and a short introduction, our little group headed to the first of 3 local beaches. The tide was coming in and the sea quite rough, perfect for ICM. 

This was my first taste of ICM and I couldn’t have chosen a better tutor. Shona is so enthusiastic about her craft and her enthusiasm is infectious. She spent time with each of us who were all at different stages, encouraging, guiding and patiently suggesting different techniques and that enthusiasm never waned. Although I still have a lot to learn, I came away with the skills to practice and improve and a few images I am proud of.. There is definitely another workshop on the horizon, can’t wait! Thank you Shona 

- Anne Bryson

 I cannot recommend Shona’s ICM Workshop enough! Her enthusiasm and excitement about ICM comes across from start to finish and I found myself being inspired to match her enthusiasm.
A brilliant instructor, she gives easy to follow tips to capture the look you are after. She spent time with each person guiding us with ways to capture our images.
I loved her workshop so much I shall be booking another very soon. 

- Lesley Kentish 

Full praise to Shona and Mark for an excellent workshop at West Wittering.  An insightful introduction followed by quality time on the beach  putting ICM into practice, using the inspiration, helpful tips and techniques discussed.  The location was superb - and Shona and Mark's gentle coaching and encouragement made for a special day and some lovely images.  

- Hilary Bailey

Shona tailored the 1-2-1 for my physical requirements, for which I am truly grateful. And what a wondrous day we had at the coast! Shona explained the possible movements to achieve certain effects and showed me what to do, which is the way I learn best. Extremely knowledgeable lady, great company and I came away with some really beautiful images created in collaboration with Shona's guidance and expertise, with my feelings and vision and with the awesome collaboration of mother nature. 

It was so helpful to have time to review images and the techniques which created them, with Shona explaining how to read or translate the movements in your images and what effects worked. It really helped to make sense of how ICM works, previously I had no understanding of it at all.

I cannot recommend Shona highly enough - she helped me to find an inner creative element of myself that surprised and inspired me. Inspirational day all round and I am looking forward to practising this more very soon. 

- Yvonne Jevons 

I had the pleasure of participating in the Capture to Canvas retreat in Fife, Scotland.  It was in this beautiful place that I had the incredible opportunity to immerse myself in the creative arts, shared with newfound friends.  I was new to photography and Shona walked me through each step from early enquiries by email from my home in Canada to the beaches in Fife. I always felt so welcomed to ask questions.  It was thrilling to begin learning the techniques of ICM.  From never holding a camera, I was doubtful I could learn, though Shona’s guidance instilled confidence and possibilities to carry with me on my journey back home. 

Coming from a painting background, I loved our time in the studio between our outings.  It was an honour to watch Fee paint and to learn new methods she taught to bring into my own work.  Her generosity of sharing her skills, along with unfaltering encouragement was deeply appreciated.  Fee also ensured that everyone was given the guidance they needed.  

We stayed in a beautiful place called The Old Schoolhouse, where we were nourished and well looked after by Meredith.  Upon entering her spacious home, there was a warm welcome and a continuous aroma of what I would describe as gourmet meals and desserts.  One of my most cherished memories is the gathering around the dining table and all the care placed in the preparation of the incredible meals and a special comradeship amongst us.  There was an openness to share our thoughts, our progress, and our feelings.  I felt a bond that developed from the first hello and deeply moved by being a part of it all.

When I look back, my heart fills with gratitude for the all the learning, and the support and care from Shona, Fee and Meredith gave throughout the retreat.  

- Hannah Green

Thank you for the most amazing few days. Thinking back on it now, it feels like we spent a month together and my life is much richer for having invested my time with you all and I am so grateful for the reciprocated investment. Words truly cannot express my gratitude for how you've built into my life and I will be forever changed because of these 5 days together.

The Old Schoolhouse is a gem that exceeds all expectations. The renovation has taken every detail into account to create a romantic getaway that allows the flow of creativity and freedom to indulge in oneself. Your meal planning and catering was out of this world and I felt spoiled like a queen! The lovingly prepared meals were both nourishing and some of the best food I've ever enjoyed. 

- Rochelle Harwin

The Capture to Canvas retreat was truly inspirational. It was the perfect opportunity to learn and experiment in a safe and supportive environment. A great combination of ICM photography and oil painting, with some wonderful extras thrown in, staying in the most beautiful house. The whole retreat felt luxurious and a treat for the senses. 

Shona and Fee skilfully supported the group on a wonderful creative journey where we all learnt a lot of technique and skills, but also learnt much about ourselves. 

Shona's endless enthusiasm and superb technical skill inspired us all to embrace ICM photography and create some wonderful images. Working with Fee was truly an inspiration. As a newbie to oil painting she made me believe in myself and create pieces of artwork I could never have dreamed of. 

Meredith opened her beautiful home to us, and we were made to feel very welcome and at home from the start. The house is spacious and luxurious with the most stunning views over the Firth of Forth. We were treated to the most delicious food, cooked with love and presented perfectly. Meredith's warm and friendly personality was the icing on the cake!

- Petra Marshall

Capture to Canvas retreat was just perfect. You could not have done more to make it the enjoyable success that it was. Your sharing of inspirational ideas and technical information, not to mention beautiful locations, was just what I needed to jump start the next stage of my creative journey. Thank you!

- Helen Hastings 

I’ve just finished my 1-1 sessions with Shona. She is so encouraging, patient, kind, complementary and knowledgable etc etc! 

I learnt so much from her including editing in a subtle way. Her manner is very friendly and warm which makes the sessions extremely enjoyable. 

I look forward to attending a holiday workshop in due course! 

- Jenny Fenton

I recently had the opportunity to take virtual personalized training with Shona. Shona's expertise in ICM is evident from the moment the session began. Her passion for photography shines through as she effortlessly guided me through the techniques of ICM photography. What truly sets her apart is her ability to break down complex concepts into easily digestible segments and personalize the training to meet my goals and skill set.

Throughout the training, Shona fosters a supportive and encouraging environment, allowing me to explore my creativity freely. Shona made me feel comfortable and never made me feel silly when asking questions; she was a true mentor.
Shona encouraged me to be present in the moment, patient while composing my shot, and try to connect with the water to create the dreamy, magical photographs I was imagining. 

The training is thoughtfully structured, covering everything from camera settings and composition techniques to post-processing tips. Shona's comprehensive approach ensures that participants gain a holistic understanding of ICM photography.

With the training, Shona opened my eyes to new creative possibilities. One day, I hope to have the opportunity to attend the in-person training workshops hosted by Shona in Scotland. 

- Barb Nicolletti

I participated in Shona's 1 to 1 training session and thought it was excellent. I learned a great deal about everything from the camera settings, focus & exposure, through to composition, movement, and so much more. Shona is clearly an expert in her field and anyone interested in learning more about ICM or taking their work to a higher level would benefit significantly from attending a session with her.

- John Yates

I thoroughly enjoyed the 1-2-1 workshop with Shona, we were very lucky with a lovely winter sunset and lots of beautiful wave "swooshery"! 

Shona offered excellent advice and guidance on how to achieve the best shots and also gave useful feedback on how to read images to improve your next shot. I managed to get a good number of shots that I am pleased with and I can't wait to get out again to put into practice what I learned with Shona. 

- Lorraine Lloyd

Having had the privilege of growing up on the Isle of Harris I am so entranced by Shona's photography which for me captures the essence, spirit and beauty of this very special place. 

The cards I purchased are entitled 'Echoes and Whispers - Harris'. They are ethereal and magical. Shona's love for her craft and the island shines through. 

On a more practical note, the cards and envelopes are of the highest print quality and arrived very quickly with a lovely handwritten note and a card with a quote from Rabbie Burns - just perfect as I write this on Burns Night!

Beautiful - thank you Shona.

- May Podd 

The Harris workshop/retreat was a much-anticipated event in my calendar. As someone who was introduced to Intentional Camera Movement (ICM) less than two years ago, I found my affinity with the sea, locally, this was reinforced through ICM. It was this that initially drew me to the workshop with high expectations. I was not disappointed.

The Harris beaches were spectacular, sands of different colours and textures, spectacular waves, great colours and a tremendous variety of light. It provided a great backdrop to the week in both the practical aspects and in terms of mindfulness. Every day I enjoyed Harris as presented.

Shona Perkins, our host, knowledge of the beaches was invaluable in terms of photography, derived from her intimate love of Harris, ICM and seascapes. She also brings energy and expertise to the workshop. There was also an overall awareness regarding personal safety. We were warned about rogue waves, but I still managed to experience the undertow from one of these waves.

Stephanie Johnson, Shona’s co-host, brought an intimate knowledge of ICM and Multi-Exposure (ME) and provided inspiration. Stephanie encouraged me to think more in terms of the ‘Heart’ not the ‘Head’ in my approach to ICM and ME. This was the main thing I took away from the workshop/retreat.

The logistical elements could not be faulted; the hotel accommodation was excellent; we were driven around Harris without having to consider personal transport and there was transport provided to Stornoway Airport and to the ferry where necessary.

Sharing this workshop / retreat with people with similar outlook and their depth of creativity was both inspiring and humbling for me. Personally, I want to thank Shona and Stephanie for making this workshop/retreat very enjoyable, I would also like to thank the others for their warmth and friendship!

The magic of Harris has got to me, and I’ve booked a few days in October ’24 in a salubrious ‘bothy’ very close to Scarista beach. A chance again to be at one with Harris.

I would recommend this workshop/retreat to anyone who has a love of seascapes, ICM and ME.

- Gordon Davidson 

I spent a fantastic day with Shona exploring the world of ICM.
The initial communication was useful after the booking was confirmed. The start of the session with Shona was informal and the meeting place was a lovely coffee shop in a beautiful setting. Shona covered the basics of ICM before heading out for the day. The beaches we visited were lovely and ideal for ICM. The day was filled with heavy showers which produced some dramatic skies which suited ICM. 

I found Shona approachable and enthusiastic about ICM and her knowledge is easy to see. She was happy to share her knowledge and passion for the subject in an informal and fun session.
It was like going out with a friend for a day's shooting. Shona is happy to give you as much or as little tuition as you want. I highly recommend a workshop with Shona if interested in this genre of photography. It was a lovely relaxed day with one or two keepers which is always a bonus. 

Shona also gives you a wee summary booklet with some hints and tips to take away which was also beautifully presented.
All in all a fab day. x 

- Fiona Barney

I’ve been an admirer of Shona’s work for some time and been inspired by her amazing images, so when an additional workshop date was announced I had no hesitation in applying. 

The small group meant that the experience was informal, like meeting and chatting to old friends. In true Shona style, her enthusiasm and professionalism  was evident from the outset as she introducing the group to ICM, running through all the technicalities and aspects of capturing wonderful images. I was a little surprised to learn just how technical capturing an ICM image is, however, over coffee and delicious cake, Shona ran through all the elements, explaining everything in detail but in an easy to understand way,  which meant that we were all eager to get started.  

Shona’s studio is the local beautiful beaches where many of her amazing images were captured, again her in-depth knowledge of the tides, light and landscape meant that we were soon encouraged to practicing our own ICM styles, capturing some great images.  Fortunately, we had a great group of photographers and the banter which flowed added to the experience while Shona engaged and encouraged the group. Alas all good things come to an end and our day was over and then the real work started with hundreds of images to review and edit.  

If your reading this review, then like me you your interested in learning a new technique and enjoy the relaxing style of creating ICM images. So would I recommend joining one of Shona’s experiences, you bet I would. Her passion, knowledge and enthusiasm is infectious, the experience will leave you wanting to get out and shoot more and more of your own images. Shona’s courses are very busy, so if your lucky enough to find availability then don’t hesitate, book it straight away and start your own ICM experience. 

- Alan Sinclair

Having widely researched ICM landscape photography, I decided to shorten the learning curve by booking a workshop with, in my view, the very best in this genre… and that is Shona.  The afternoon and evening-long workshop (with two other participants) was everything that I had hoped for. Shona’s enthusiasm towards her clients and photography was obvious from the start as she explained the camera settings, equipment and movements behind her amazing photographs before we travelled to some lovely coastal locations to put it all into practice.  

In trying to perfect our techniques, Shona kept the perfect balance between offering advice and tuition while still allowing one time and space to experiment and iron out the flaws.  Although the rain clouds continually threatened, the workshop was primarily a learning experience and yet I was delighted to come away with not only some really impressive and satisfying images but also the enthusiasm and motivation to rush out to experiment more with my new-found knowledge.

My own ICM journey has suddenly become a reality and taken off thanks to Shona’s workshop - which is simply a ‘must’ for anyone interested in this genre of photography; I can’t recommend it enough.

- Charles Everitt

I have experimented with ICM photography for a few years now and absolutely love Shona’s images, so when my husband needed ideas for my birthday present, I immediately suggested one of Shona’s workshops.

Shona started the course by talking us through the best camera settings and the different movements you can use to achieve ICM images. She did this by relating it back to her own work, explaining her own process for individual images and what she had wanted to achieve in that image.

We then got the opportunity to put what we had learnt into practice and set off for some beautiful beach locations. Shona talked us through possible compositions and again ran through her own camera settings and the movements she would or could use to capture the different landscapes that we were presented with.

Shona was a wonderful and patient teacher, giving feedback to each of us on our images in real time and suggesting different movements and speeds we could use to achieve different results.
If you already love ICM, are keen to experiment with a new genre, or want to create images that reflect how the landscape makes you feel, I would highly recommend Shona’s courses. 

- Katie Glass

Shona Perkins has shown an honest and enthusiastic approach to mentoring. She was well prepared with slides covering the topics; the topics were explained in a very clear way. I could perceive that she really desired to help me grow / develop both in the session to explain ICM and in the second one when she presented digital marketing. I appreciated her care and attitude.

I would like to recommend Shona as a mentor to other photographers / photo enthusiasts. 

- Barbara Gugliotta 

I am not old dog, but as a photographer of 30+ years experience I know my way round a camera and I am probably quite set in my ways. Recently however I felt my photography needed something new as I was churning out the same old wildlife and landscape shots… 

My Beautiful Scotland’s ICM 1-2-1 has been just the injection of adrenaline I needed to get my photography mojo back! 

During our pre workshop zoom call Shona took the time to understand my photography ability and ICM experience then tailor our workshop together to suit my individual needs. The workshop itself was a perfect balance of technical detail and theoretical discussion on the fundamentals of ICM and Shona's knowledge and enthusiasm shone through all day! 

There is a lot of varied approaches to ICM… but the basis of Shona’s approach is to "shoot with intention”. This really resonated with me... ICM takes my photography further than just taking photographs… Its using your camera as a tool to produce your own reflection of the scene in front of you… much the same as an artist uses an easel and brushes. Its a personal expression! 

The workshop itself was just a brilliant experience. Meeting in a local café where I was presented with a printed companion to the evening which will acts as a great aide memoir for the future. We then visited local beaches to look at a variety of compositions and movement techniques. It was amazing how the mundane I’d never think to point a camera at was transformed by Shona into something special. The discussions on ICM continued freely through the evening and Shona’s relaxed and informative teaching style was perfect. We were treated to a stunning evenings light which I was amazed she was able to organise! I now look forward to going off on my own and experimenting… I want to see if I can integrate ICM into all the genres I shoot including landscapes, wildlife and motorsports! 

I would recommend a My Beautiful Scotland workshop to anyone looking to inject more of their own personality into their photograph… don’t just take pictures… create images with feeling!

- Mark Elliot

Shona's 2-hour course was copious in scope, fast-paced in progression, and exhilarating in its Art. She is a     compelling and uber-talented photographic artist, creating pieces that are mind-altering in impact. I have taken many online and in-person courses over     the past 10 years; and Shona's ranks at the very top of that list. HIGHLY     RECOMMENDED.

- James Moorcroft

At first I was worried that the fact that the workshop was being held in places that I already knew very well might limit my learning from the day. Far from it - it transformed how I saw and interpreted familiar places. 

The small number of participants meant that we each got lots of personal help and feedback. The time flew by so fast but I learned so much. Easily the best workshop I have attended. 

- Paul A

Spent an amazing day with Shona in a 1-2-1 session. She's passionate, fun, talented, patient, energetic, and so easy to talk to. 

I'm fairly new to ICM, and Shona's enthusiasm and genuine interest in helping me improve made our time together a real pleasure. She provided both practical tips and tricks, as well as on point critiques and ideas about how to achieve my vision, all while engaging in great conversation about her experience and knowledge of ICM. Couldn't have been better. 

Thanks so much, Shona. 

- Mark M

I thoroughly enjoyed my 2 hour 1-2-1 ICM Zoom with Shona yesterday. 

Her work is just so inspiring, and the presentation very professional. Thank you so much Shona, and I can't wait to do one of your 3 day workshops in due course! 

-  Andi H.  

I spent a very enjoyable and informative day with Shona at St Andrews and Tentsmuir on a 1-2-1 workshop recently.

As a relative newcomer to ICM photography, Shona took the time to share lots of tips and techniques and after one day I felt I’d learnt so much and have lots of ideas and approaches to put into practice myself. Her warm and engaging approach made the day hugely enjoyable and fly by. 

I’d highly recommend Shona’s workshop to others looking to learn or improve ICM techniques.

- Petra Marshall

Shot with Shona for the first time on a dull and overcast April day which offered the least promising of conditions for photography; skies were grey and featureless, and the sea wasn't much different. 

It's a testament to Shona that I ended the day with more images than I can possibly share on my website or Instagram. She was well organised with hand outs, drinks, directions and most importantly fantastic locations and the knowledge to share that enable me to make the most of them. 

If I complaint it's that she's got me addicted to ICM now, and two days later I've been out for another shoot, and have a dedicated ICM gallery on my own website!

- Paul Williams 

Our small-group session with Shona / My Beautiful Scotland exceeded our expectations. During our short time together, Shona offered tailored instruction and supportive feedback while guiding us to beautiful seascape locations. Shona’s enthusiasm is infectious and she is a delight to work with. Would we do it again? Absolutely!

- Beth / Fiona / Frances / Michelle

My two friends and myself met up with Shona Perkins and she was amazing. If you want to have your heart sing and feel a Big smile on your face at all times, you need to do a workshop with @mybeautifulscotland

- Frances K

I was initially intrigued and inspired by Shona’s artistic creations relating to the fascinating subject of ICM. Consequently, I became enthused about learning more about this subject and decided to arrange a one-to-one session with Shona, which took place at the amazing woodlands and beach of Tenstmuir, Scotland. 

Throughout the session Shona’s Enthusiasm, dedication and commitment was significantly evident. A true and honest professional with a unique and friendly personality together with a most enjoyable and informative session is not to be missed by anyone who is thinking about learning more about the unique photographic subject of ICM - you will not be disappointed. 

It’s an exhilarating aspect of photography and as a result of my session with Shona I’m truly hooked. 

The observation of the pink moon rising across the sea from the horizon within the blue hour at the end of our session was an awesome and most memorable phenomenon. 

Thank you so much Shona your presentation, tips and gained knowledge is noted and will never be forgotten.

- Larry St Croix

As someone who has only held a camera for a year, I have not fully immersed myself into any specific genre. I have a love for both landscape and seascape photography.

As a result of following several social media platforms I discovered Shona (My Beautiful Scotland) and I was taken aback by Shona’s stunning coastal images, particularly Shona’s use of ICM. 

I have followed Shona and her amazing work for a number of months now. Knowing that Shona lives fairly local to myself, I decided to contact Shona to arrange some 1-1 tuition.

I was quite anxious at first, more so as Shona’s images never cease to amaze me and being a relative novice I knew I would not be able to emulate Shona’s work, that said Shona really is up there with some of the best ICM photographers’.

Shona arranged a ‘Zoom’ so that we could have that initial introduction and to make arrangements for meeting.

I met Shona in the car park next to the beach that we would be heading to. We initially discussed the principles of ICM, Shona handed me a very well put together guide on ICM, the different styles, example images, settings etc.

Shona is clearly very knowledgeable and experienced in the field of ICM. While I had some anxieties on initially meeting with Shona, those were soon put to the side. Shona has such a lovely personality, explains the processes very clearly and at all times sharing and demonstrating.

As a novice and someone with a love of all photography genres, I gained so much understanding of ICM during these few hours, in fact one of my best images to date was taken on that evening in the company of Shona, it has since been liked probably more than any other image I have shared to social media.

I have been out a couple of times since having this 1-1 session with Shona and already I can see a marked improvement in my images and I know more, that knowledge is now being put into practice and the results are quite astounding.

I would have no reservations whatsoever in recommending anyone to take up some 1-1 tuition with Shona, as far as I am concerned this was more valuable than having the latest piece of gear etc.

- Mark McDonald

I had the most fantastic 1-2-1 with Shona.  Firstly, she was friendly and immediately I felt at ease and did not feel apprehensive about how our day was going to turn out.  

She is very knowledgeable about her chosen Genre of photography, willing to share her techniques both in camera and post processing.  I came away from our lesson with confidence and an eagerness to get out on my own with my camera.  

Shona answered questions and led the lesson at a pace I was comfortable with.  The reference material which Shona supplies, is also a great tool for learning.  Thank you Shona.

- Angie Robertson

I have loved Shona’s work for some time now, ever since I saw her on a zoom meet sharing her love of ICM.  Her photos draw me in from the get go with the colours and the absolute tranquility of each shot.  

I loved my 1-2-1 session with her on the beaches off the east coast of Scotland.  I wasn’t quite sure what to expect and was quite nervous to be honest but Shona quickly put me at ease with her warm and relaxed manner.   

Her enthusiasm and passion for ICM clearly shone through and inspired me as the day went on. I began to understand that ICM is absolutely a skill and something that you cannot pick up and master all of a sudden.  

I would definitely recommend Shona’s Workshops to anyone that wants to be educated and mystified at the same time.  Thank you Shona for an amazing education and a day that passed far too quickly.  It was an absolute joy to meet you. 

- Aileen Forrest

I can highly recommend Shona's 121 workshop. She takes the time to explain the process and then shows you how it's done. She is super friendly and makes you feel comfortable and at ease.  The day went past so quickly and I learnt a lot in the day.

- Ann Marie Trotter 

Having had 1.1 tuition with Shona I can honestly say it was one of the most enjoyable photography classes I have ever had.  Shona is a real expert in the ICM field and is also a lovely person to spend time with.  She carefully explained the techniques before guiding me to some stunning locations and gave great tips and feedback during the day.  I can highly recommend booking a workshop with her and very much hope our paths cross again in the future.  Thank you Shona. 

- Sarah Benson 

Shona's expert knowledge, tuition skills and joyful enthusiasm for ICM photography makes booking an individual learning experience a must! 

Highly recommended. 

- Tom Clark

I would highly recommend a one to one session with Shona. 

As a keen landscape photographer, I have tried ICM in the past and not managed to make sense of it but a couple of hours of Shona’s tuition gave me the platform I needed to progress with it. 

She did a brilliant job of working out my level of understanding of photography and camera functions so we could start at the right point and get the most out of the session. 

I left with a lot of images that I’m chuffed with, even on a day when the weather didn’t co-operate, and the follow up session on editing was equally valuable.

- Nick Naylor

I’ve admired Shona’s work for quite some time now and I reached out to her regarding a private tutorial session when I noticed quite a few of her photos were taken in an area of Scotland where I come for extended visits a couple of times a year.

I spent a full day with Shona on the East Lothian coast.  She managed to find the perfect mix of instruction and fun.  

We started the day with a coffee and a chat about ICM.  Shona gave me a well-prepared folder of visual aids introducing me to the process.  The folder included beautiful examples of ICM, along with simple technical descriptions of the process, and some artistic reminders and advice.
Scottish weather is unpredictable, but we lucked out.  It was a beautiful day.  I have confidence though – good or not-so-perfect weather – Shona would have the bases covered and still create a good learning experience.  

I can’t say enough about Shona’s teaching style.  She’s very relaxed and incredibly easy to spend time with.  Learning anything is so much more fun when you’re comfortable with your teacher.  We traipsed around beaches, we laughed, we got to know each other, and we both took TONS of photos.  But Shona never lost sight of our purpose, and kept a close eye on my technique, advising and encouraging me every step of the way.

The session doesn’t end there.  Shona offers a follow-up video call once you’ve had a chance to take a good look at your photos and do some editing.  I’m looking forward to getting back to LA where I can see my images more clearly on my larger monitor. I have no doubt Shona will have some valuable critiques and suggestions, along with editing and processing tips (which I can’t wait to hear).
I highly recommend Shona’s private tutoring. I guarantee you’ll have a great time, and come away from a session leaps and bounds beyond where you started.

- Linda Campanelli

I can’t recommend enough the “One to one photography tuition” I went on 17th May, in the East Lothian coast of Scotland with the amazing photographer, Shona Perkins. 

In 5 hours we visited  2 beautiful beaches starting off at Seacliff Beach in North Berwick and finishing for sunset at Gullane Beach. We got very mild and good weather with beautiful light and soft bluish colours of the sky, clouds and ocean against the golden sand coast.  

Shona is very professional in her tutorial. At first we met on Zoom to get to know each other and to prepare the trip, getting to know everything about my needs and wishes. Then she went some extra miles to look out if the weather would be okay on the sets dates and gave me a lift from and back again to my hotel in Edinburgh, much appreciated. 

The last session is then after few weeks in Zoom, looking at the after processing and editing of the pictures.  Shona is very kind, helpful and easy going and a great company. Her tutoring is very welcoming and effortless.  She has very good knowledge about photographing and  ICM procedures and we did all kind of fun and interesting exercises. I went easily into a “flow” mood, although I was learning new things at the same time.  

Now I want to go more often outside to take more pictures and practice the ICM methods more. Shona’s guidance gave me more confidence and inspiration to do so.  Thank you so much Shona. 

- Rannveig Bjork Gylfadottir