Painting Photography France - Lagruère

Stephen G.

Both myself and my wife have have had a holiday at Pete and Jills on three separate occasions, the most recent being in October 2018. I have been on one basic and two advanced photography courses. I can honestly say that these have been some of the best holidays we've had. Pete and Jill are a lovely couple, very friendly and down to earth. They have a lovely home in which you are made very welcome. Pete is a very good photographer and can put his knowledge across in a very concise and easy to understand way. We went to some great locations, all transport was provided along with very tasty picnic lunches. Each evening we were treated to some exceptional food at various restaurants in the local area. One evening we went to a local village where the villagers had stalls set up selling french food and wine which you bought and then sat on benches provided and enjoyed the sunshine and real atmosphere of a french village..fabulous. Considering that transport, accommodation, tuition, food, wine with lunch and drinks at the house are included in the price along with great company with like minded people, I think Pete and Jills photography and painting holidays are excellent value for money and I highly recommend them.

Steve G.

I had the good fortune to visit Pete and Jill at Painting Photography France in September 2023. This was my 5th visit and I was booked on the advanced photography course. Pete is very knowledgeable about photography and is able to put that knowledge across to both beginner and more advanced photographers. Both Pete and Jill are a very down to earth lovely couple and nothing is too much trouble for them. The accommodation is very home from home with your own en-suite. Lunches are picnic based with good food and wine and evening meals are provided at great restaurants in the local area. Locations for the days photography are varied, interesting and fun. I think the cost of the week is exceptional value considering the quality of the accommodation, tuition, meals, and transport every day, plus drinks at the house are included. If you want to further your passion for photography I would highly recommend this holiday.

Alistair B.

I did the photography week and my wife did the painting. We both had a great time and thoroughly enjoyed Pete and Jill's company and teaching (and picnics!). The diversity of photography techniques and styles was excellent (not to mention the superb local food), and the painting locations and experience were not to be missed. We have both returned home inspired - so much so that we are definitely planning a return trip!

Karen W.

What a wonderful house and pool and accommodation! I had a lovely room with a lovely view. The food was terrific with great choices all round. I have food allergies and all was taken into account. Thank you for that. As to the painting, I'm a beginner and Jill gave me many tips and suggestions to help me with technique and composition. I had an amazing time! I wish I had just gotten down and painted even more pictures but sometimes I was just so distracted by the beauty and joy of being there! But never mind, I took thousands of photos and can paint from them whenever I want! Would love to go again! It was just such great fun all around to be with Jill & Pete! 👍🏻

Maryanne M.

Thank you so much for this lovely holiday. I loved painting in this area. Jill picked great spots with a restroom close by. She was patient, explained things clearly, and gave perfect suggestions. My room was lovely and the grounds were fantastic. The restaurants all had delicious food with lots of choices. I loved having the healthy picnics for lunch and also loved the night market. It was a shame that Vétou was not available. To sum up, I wanted an intimate painting experience with a small group and to learn about life in France and this was just perfect.

Inglis L.

Five visits for the photography, my first in 2010. Now that’s a recommendation. The holiday is a joy from the time Pete takes you to their charming house to the final farewell. Pete and Jill make everyone feel part of a family. Outings are to various well chosen venues, and these are quite challenging in the photographic Advanced Weeks. There is rarely any formal teaching, rather suggestions in advance on how to tackle a particular subject, and valuable advice and clear instruction whether shooting or painting. Picnic lunches are lavish, and usually at the venue. Most evening meals are at carefully chosen restaurants (I’ve never been disappointed), but sometimes everyone gets to enjoy Jill’s delicious cooking. Their excellent and easily navigated website tells it all, its quality reflecting the whole enterprise.

Tom M.

We , Aussies, have now had 2 painting holidays at a Painting and Photography France. Plus several visits while travelling in France, as Pete and Jill are now considered life long friends.
This as ideal on our first visit , as my photographer wife Lyn was catered for with excursions with Pete while I painted with Jill.
On our second stay Lyn painted en plein air as well
A bonus is catching up both visits with a couple from Notinghamshire who too have become lifelong friends.
Our experience with them had been 10+ and from my introduction to watercolour with Jill has opened up a whole new world having created over 300 works since our first visit.
Everything , other than personal art supplies, is provided, food, wine and great outings to fascinating venues each day to paint en plein air, and with delicious picnic lunches.
Evenings are at fabulous “ Mum and Dad” restaurants or home cooked creations by Jill
Special requests are catered for , ie meeting up with local artists.
Great comradeship, good food, great locations and add up to a great experience

Kim R.

I had a great time spending a week at your home. The painting locations, lesson, food, and the atmosphere that you and Peter created were beyond my expectations.

Your painting holiday is unique and effective because of your personality and warmth. At first, I recommended you advertise your program by doing YouTube videos. But at the end of my stay, I realized you didn't need to. The lucky ones (like me) will find you and Peter! Continue your great work. Many thanks to you both.