Croatia: A Dream Come True

With its rich blend of medieval history, vibrant coastal towns, and pristine natural wonders, Croatia offers an endless palette for photographers of all skill levels. So, when BCJ asked me to lead the inaugural trip embarking to this incredible country, it was a dream come true. The popularity of this trip was so well received by our BCJ tribe, a second departure was added! I think I can speak for many of the participants by saying these trips were a rousing success!

With our local guides, we explored picturesque villages, dynamic cityscapes, and breathtaking landscapes, to capture the magic of this diverse country through our lenses. From golden-hour panoramas to silky waterfall shots, every day was an opportunity to create and grow as photographers and establish new friendships.

For our trips, we gathered in the Capital of Croatia, Zagreb, and then headed towards the Istria Peninsula and our first stop, Bale Valle. Bale Valle is a quaint, medieval village nestled in the Istrian countryside. The town’s cobblestone streets and stone houses transported us to a simpler time and gave us ample photo opportunities. Early mornings were particularly magical here, as soft sunlight bathed the buildings and cast long shadows, emphasizing the textures of the ancient walls, as we wandered the narrow streets. This quiet village provided the perfect location to base ourselves out of for the next several days.

From Bale Valle, we embarked on day trips to various locations. We made several visits to Rovinj, one of Croatia’s most iconic coastal towns. As we approached, the sight of colorful houses tumbling down to the harbor, with St. Euphemia’s Basilica perched high above, took our breath away. Rovinj’s charm lies in its vibrancy and energy, and this was reflected in our photography. Sunsets in Rovinj were an unforgettable experience. The harbor came alive with hues of orange, pink, and purple, reflecting off the calm waters.

Long-exposure shots captured the movement of boats gently rocking in the harbor and smoothing out the wavy water, creating dynamic yet serene compositions. Wandering the narrow streets, we experimented with low-light photography, capturing the glow of lanterns illuminating the cobblestones. We made sure to return to photograph sunrises at this iconic location as well, which added a different look to the scene in the beautiful pre-dawn light.

Another day trip included the bustling city of Pula, which offered a stark contrast to Rovinj’s intimate charm. Known for its Roman heritage, Pula is home to the magnificent Pula Arena, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Standing before this ancient structure, we couldn’t help but feel the weight of history.

Wide-angle lenses proved invaluable as we worked to capture the sheer scale and grandeur of the amphitheater. We were able to experiment with perspectives, incorporating the surrounding modern cityscape to create striking juxtapositions. On our first excursion we were able to return to the Arena one morning while, the arena was beautifully illuminated, and our cameras focused on the interplay of light and shadow against the ancient stone, and the stunning blue light hour.

Nestled atop a hill in the heart of Istria, sits Motovun and was one of the highlights of the trip. Surrounded by rolling vineyards and misty valleys, this medieval village offered endless inspiration for landscape photography. We arrived early in the morning to catch the sunrise, and the view did not disappoint. Within the village, the narrow streets and stone walls provided a different kind of challenge, perfect for practicing framing and composition, and afforded us with expansive views of the beautiful valley below. Motovun’s charm extended beyond its visual beauty. We took breaks to sample the region’s famous truffles, adding a delicious cultural element to our visit.

On our first tour we were able to have quick visits to the towns of Zadar, Hum, and Šibenik, Šibenik is a coastal city steeped in history and charm. Its centerpiece, the UNESCO-listed Cathedral of St. James, is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. The intricate stone carvings and symmetrical design provided endless opportunities for creative photography, in the beautiful blue hour light.

 On the second departure we were able to spend an extended time in the quaint town of Skradin. And capture its unique charm along the shores of Lake Prukljan.

Next, we ventured to Krka National Park, a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike. Famous for its cascading waterfalls and turquoise pools, the park offered endless opportunities to experiment with long exposures and creative compositions.

The iconic Skradinski Buk waterfall was the centerpiece of our visit. With tripods set up along the boardwalk, we used neutral density filters to slow down our shutter speeds, transforming the rushing water into silky ribbons. Close-ups of moss-covered rocks and vibrant foliage added texture and depth to our images.

The grand finale of our travels was Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a wonderland of waterfalls, lakes, and lush forests. From the moment we entered the park, we were in awe of its beauty.

Wooden footbridges wound through emerald-green forests and across crystal-clear lakes. The reflections in the water were so perfect that they seemed almost surreal, challenging us to find creative ways to convey the scene’s depth and scale. The waterfalls, ranging from delicate trickles to roaring cascades, were perfect subjects for experimenting with shutter speed and composition

The park’s autumn foliage added another layer of beauty to our shots, with fiery reds and oranges contrasting against the turquoise waters.
This workshop was much more than a photography trip, like so many BCJ trips are—it was an immersive journey into Croatia’s culture, history, and natural wonders. Each location offered unique challenges and opportunities, pushing us to experiment with different techniques and perspectives. From the quiet charm of Bale Valle to the dynamic energy of Rovinj, the historic grandeur of Pula, and the ethereal beauty of Plitvice, every stop enriched our understanding of photography and the world around us.

The camaraderie among participants was another highlight of the experience. Sharing tips, critiquing each other’s work, and celebrating our successes fostered a sense of community that made the journey even more rewarding. As one participant explained, we came into this trip as strangers and are leaving as friends. A very accurate description of so many of the BCJ trips I am fortunate enough to lead.

For those considering a photography workshop in Croatia, I cannot recommend it enough. Pack a sturdy tripod, neutral density filters, and comfortable walking shoes—and be ready to lose yourself in the magic of this incredible country. Croatia has a way of rewarding those who look closely, and the memories you capture will stay with you long after the trip is over.