Lisbon Portrait Retreat

Lisbon, Portugal | October 4–9, 2026

What Is This Retreat?

This retreat is my invitation to step away from the everyday and into a thoughtfully curated experience built specifically for photographers. It’s designed for creatives who want to grow—not just in technical skill, but in how they see, feel, and connect through their work. It’s also a chance to experience Lisbon in a way few ever do: through the rhythms of daily life and the perspective of the people who call it home.

Over the course of the retreat, we’ll guide you through hands-on photographic education, in-depth Photoshop instruction, and immersive portrait sessions with fascinating locals. We’ll slow the process down and work with intention—refining both craft and vision along the way. You’ll return home with stronger skills, renewed inspiration, and a deeper confidence in your creative voice.

This isn’t about shooting more—it’s about seeing more.

Why Lisbon?

Portugal is a photographer’s dream, especially for those drawn to people and story. From local artisans and café owners to residents who have lived in the same neighborhoods for generations, the city offers endless opportunities for meaningful, authentic portrait work.
One of the oldest cities in the world—older than Rome—Lisbon’s charm is woven into its weathered streets, tiled facades, and hilltop neighborhoods. The soft light, relaxed pace, and warmth of the Portuguese people create an ideal setting to slow down, connect, and make portraits that feel timeless.

A Blend of Learning and Leisure

This retreat is designed with intention—to help you grow creatively while still leaving room to breathe, connect, and enjoy the beauty of Portugal. Each day includes thoughtfully planned photo education, creative conversations, and hands-on learning, balanced with cultural experiences and unstructured time to explore.

What makes this retreat truly special is the way meaningful photographic growth is woven into cultural immersion. We explore the city through a photographer’s lens—paying attention to light, texture, emotion, and story—while engaging with the people and traditions that give Lisbon its character. This isn’t just a vacation. It’s an investment in your creative journey and in how you experience the world through your camera.

Traveling with a Spouse or Friend?

Spouses and non-photographer companions are absolutely welcome on this retreat. While the educational sessions are designed for photographers, the overall experience is very much a shared travel experience. Companions are invited to join all group excursions, meals, and cultural experiences throughout the week.
During photography sessions, companions are welcome to tag along—or use that time to explore Lisbon in their own way. We’ll provide ideas and recommendations for cafés, neighborhoods, museums, waterfront walks, and day-to-day experiences so they can enjoy the city at a relaxed, unhurried pace. Many find this balance ideal: time together, time apart, and plenty to talk about over dinner.

Meet your hosts

Larry Lourcey
I’ve been a professional photographer for over 25 years, and what still excites me most is helping people tell meaningful stories through portraits. For me, the strongest images don’t come from perfect technique alone—they come from connection, curiosity, and taking the time to really see the person in front of the camera.

Portugal has become a place I return to often, and it’s shaped the way I think about both travel and photography. I design these retreats to move beyond the tourist checklist and into everyday life—slow mornings, real conversations, and moments that don’t announce themselves. That’s where the best stories live.

My role on this trip is part teacher, part fellow artist, and part guide. I’ll help you refine your approach to portraiture and storytelling while creating a relaxed, encouraging space to experiment, ask questions, and grow. My goal is simple: for you to leave feeling more confident, more inspired, and more connected—to your work and to the people you photograph.
"PG" Phaneendra Gudapati
I’m excited to have my good friend PG joining us on this trip. PG is a gifted portrait artist whose work blends classical portraiture with modern fashion and fine-art influences. He has an incredible eye for detail and emotion.What sets PG apart is the way he bridges art and technology. He’s endlessly curious, always exploring new tools and techniques, and he brings that knowledge into the creative process in a way that feels approachable rather than overwhelming.

Whether it’s refining a portrait, shaping a visual narrative, or polishing an image in post-production, he has a knack for helping photographers see what’s possible—and then showing them how to get there. On this retreat, PG will be a constant creative resource, especially when it comes to Photoshop, finishing, and elevating your work. Between the two of us, you’ll get both the big-picture storytelling mindset and the technical refinement that turns a strong image into a finished piece you’re proud to share.

Pricing

A non-refundable deposit of $1,000 per person is required to reserve your spot.  To optimize the experience, we are limiting the number of spots - so reserve yours today!

5 nights of accommodations
2 full-day guided excursions
A fun baking class
Daily breakfast + 2 group dinners
Daily photo sessions and Photoshop workshops
Pick-up from Lisbon airport and transfer to lodging
Note: Airfare and travel insurance not included.
Double occupancy
$4,000
Single occupancy
$4,800

Early bird discount

Save $500 if you book by Friday, January 30th

Still have questions? FAQ page below..

WORKSHOP F.A.Q. PAGE

Get Your Free Travel Tips Guide

Subscribe for our exclusive travel tips PDF and be the first to know about new trips.

We care about the protection of your data. Read our Privacy Policy.