In my opinion, repeat business is a very sound measure of quality products and services. It’s certainly the case that Tesni Ward has a substantial number of returning photo clients, including me in early May 2024. Her energy and commitment to client success is astonishing. I have been on two trips with Tesni and have just booked a third because Tesni’s technical knowledge and understanding of her subjects means a high chance of returning with some decent images. The small group sizes mean that everyone gets as much attention as they want or need and there is little chance of being in each other’s way. I have no hesitation in recommending Tesni as a guide and mentor.

We were booked on the 3-day Skomer trip in July 2022 as part of a group of 4,  from the outset there was a lovely atmosphere in the group,  Tesni knows Skomer well and took us to the best locations to get some incredible shots of these charismatic birds  Knowing the island as well as Tesni does really helped to get the best out of the light and maximise the potential to get stunning images.  Tesni was on hand at all times to help with camera settings, composition and exposure, her in-depth knowledge of different camera makes, menus and settings was invaluable.  My husband wasn’t really in to photography before we went but with Tesni’s help, good humoured banter testing him with his settings and the loan of one of Tesni’s camera bodies he managed to get lots of beautiful shots which has really inspired him to take up photography.  Tesni’s sense of humour ensured that we all had fun as well as taking great images.  Tesni cooked breakfast and evening meal which were delicious (thank you Tesni’s Mum)  We had such an amazing time this year we are booking for next year as the same group.  To sum up the experience, Fantastic holiday with lovely people, cannot wait to go next year.

I’m just back from a few nights staying on Skomer Island on a tour led by Tesni Ward (Olympus ambassador). I had a fantastic time, and it was the perfect opportunity to get to grips with my new OM1, with assistance available if required. I found Tes offered the perfect amount of help, there is she was needed, but no pressure if you were happy to get on and shoot. She was very knowledgeable about the best locations on the island for different species, and more than prepared to accompany us on late night excursions to see the shearwaters, as well as sunrise and sunset shoots for the puffins. In my opinion, Tes went above and beyond to make sure we all had the best time and got the most out of the trip. We were a small group, and everyone got along really well, already talking of repeating the trip next year.

“Skomer is an amazing place, something I’ve never experienced before. Though my skills normally lie in capturing shots of cliffs in the landscape, she was able to teach me how to use my camera equipment properly, understand the wildlife as well as my surroundings.  So even I could capture some birds in those shots of cliffs by the end of the day.  Her understanding of the wildlife, the island, the weather the conditions made it a truly remarkable experience.

From the first moment of meeting Tesni, her passion for her craft shines though, her knowledge about her equipment is only surpassed by her knowledge of her subjects.  It’s a true pleasure to be surrounded by such expertise, passion and attention. Tesni’s outgoing and warm personality makes it easy to connect quickly, she is kind and considerate, working with all people in the group, taking her time to make everyone comfortable.  Her knowledge of OM System (Olympus) equipment is impeccable, but she’s able to support other systems with extensive knowledge and guidance. If you are thinking of taking the step of doing a workshop with a professional photographer, I cannot recommend Tesni’s Skomer Workshop higher. Skomer Island is an incredible experience in itself, but coupled with that you get Tesni’s incredible attitude, approach, knowledge and commitment, some funny jokes, silly moments, good food and a few cuppas.  You will have a great and memorable experience, you will leave with great photos, but more importantly you will have learnt new things that you can apply to your photography from that day forward.

Skomer Island in Pembrokeshire had been on my bucket list for some years and finally I was able to book a three-night residential photo workshop with Olympus Ambassador Tesni Ward. I was aware of Tesni’s wildlife photography and the great reviews her workshops have received. From the moment of booking in 2022 until the morning of departure in May 2023 Tesni communicated as necessary, providing the salient details at the appropriate time. At departure time Tesni was relaxed and took the strain of logistics in her stride, a sure sign of an experienced professional who knew the procedures. Once landed on Skomer, Tesni again knew exactly how matters would be handled, making for an stress-free arrival. Once at our accommodation Tesni discussed the proposed itinerary and scheduling for our days on the island, explaining why each location and time were chosen. Her knowledge of the island and its wildlife was detailed and in-depth, meaning that time was never wasted on poor locations or unsuitable light, and our chances of successful images were greatly increased. Our small group of four plus Tesni meant that each of us received plenty of personal coaching with as much advice and help as we needed or asked for. It was with the coaching that Tesni combined art and technique, explaining how lighting, background and particular settings could increase the likelihood of a successful shot. It is important to state that at all times Tesni’s real concern for the welfare of our subjects was never compromised and she ensured strict observation of rules and ethics. Never patronising and always supportive, Tesni’s bubbly personality shone through and I know that our little group had a wonderful time, returning with images that we love from a few days we will never forget, for all the right reasons. In summary I would say that any aspiring wildlife photographer would be well advised to spend time with Tesni, whether on a one-day workshop or a longer photo break and regardless of species, camera brand or location. Tesni possesses a depth of subject knowledge that she passes on willingly and her respect for both place and wildlife is to be admired. Her workshops will never be of the “get the shot regardless” style.

I genuinely recommend time with Tesni as a learning experience.