Larch Trees & Light: Matterhorn

No, and that's not just a polite platitude. Technology doesn't determine whether a photo works. Light, angle, and timing do—and that's exactly what we're working on. Modern smartphones perform surprisingly well in this light.

Yes. There's no theoretical component that you could miss. We work on specific subjects as we go, and they'll meet you where you are.

Probably not. With a maximum of six people, I can work with each one individually, and those who are more advanced are given different tasks accordingly. Plus, Lake Grindji in October isn't an everyday subject, even for experienced photographers.

About 750 meters of elevation gain, spread out over a good two hours including breaks, then the same route back. If you can handle a normal day hike, you can handle this one this afternoon. We’ll walk slowly because we’ll be taking pictures along the way, not because we have to.

No. It's helpful for long exposures by the lake, but it's not a must-have, and half of the best photos are taken handheld anyway. If you have one, bring it along. If not, please don't go out and buy one just for this afternoon.

Absolutely. Most people come alone. With six people, that's no longer an issue after half an hour.

Yes, for the same price. The hike, the photos of you, and the aperitif are all the same—except that you’ll spend your time at the lake enjoying the view instead of taking pictures.

Generally speaking, yes, as long as he’s easy to control and interacts calmly with other people and wildlife. Please let me know in advance so I’m aware.

The decision on whether to proceed will be made one day in advance and communicated to everyone immediately. In case of rain or a storm, there are two options: rescheduling to one of the other two dates, if space is available, or a full refund. By the way, light cloud cover isn’t bad weather—it often provides better light than a cloudless day.

Then it gets even more beautiful. Fresh snow on golden larch trees is the best thing that can happen from a photographic standpoint. If there’s a lot of fresh snow, we’ll head to the lower larch slopes to avoid Findeln and Ried, which shortens the afternoon but doesn’t make it any less enjoyable. If conditions make the route to Grindjisee unsafe, I’ll make that decision on the spot, and it’s not up for discussion.

If there are fewer than three sign-ups, I'll cancel the session one day in advance and refund the full amount. You can then switch to one of the other sessions, if there's space available.

Five to eight edited photos of you in the countryside, as high-resolution JPGs, delivered via a download link within ten business days. You may use them for personal purposes, print them, give them as gifts, and post them on social media. I’d appreciate it if you credited me, but it’s not a requirement.

Only if you explicitly give your permission. I'll ask you at the end of the day, and a “no” is perfectly fine and won't have any consequences.

In mid-October, the sun sets around 6:30 p.m. The descent from Findeln to Zermatt follows a wide, well-marked trail that’s easy to navigate with a headlamp. This is part of the plan—not an oversight.

Starting at about age 14, accompanied by a parent, as long as they're fit enough to handle a 750-meter elevation gain. For younger children, the afternoon is too long because it ends so late.

No. In October, the mountain restaurants in Findeln and at Fluhalp are usually already closed. Bring a thermos and some food with you.