Château Amboise Photography Tour with Mark Playle

Summary

Photography Workshop at Château Royal d'Amboise

You’ll learn hands-on photography tricks at Château d’Amboise with local expert Mark Playle. Whether you’re using a phone or a pro camera, you’ll spot details most visitors miss—and come away with shots you’ll actually want to print.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed as we walked up to Château d’Amboise was the way the early light hit the old stone walls—sort of golden, but not too harsh. Mark, our guide and tutor, greeted us just outside the main gate. He’s lived here for years and knows every angle worth shooting. We started with a quick chat about what we wanted from our photos—some folks had big DSLRs, others just their phones. Didn’t matter; Mark made everyone feel like they belonged.

Inside, you can smell fresh grass from the gardens mixing with that faint old-stone scent you only get in these Loire châteaux. Mark pointed out little details most people walk right past—a carved salamander above a doorway, or how the light changes near Leonardo da Vinci’s tomb if you wait just a few minutes. He shared stories about kings who once called this place home and even gave us tips on shooting through ironwork without getting weird reflections.

I’d never thought much about timing my shots to catch the shadow lines on the terrace, but Mark showed us how to use them for depth. He’s photographed everything from London Fashion Week to Le Mans 24hr, so he knows his stuff—but he keeps it relaxed and fun. We took breaks when we needed (there’s a little café nearby if you want coffee), and by the end, I had photos I’d never have managed on my own.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Photography at Château Amboise

• Photography session at Château Amboise

Top questions

Do I need a professional camera for this tour?

Nope! Any camera works—DSLR, mirrorless, point & shoot, or even your phone or tablet.

Is this suitable for beginners?

Absolutely. Mark adapts his advice for all skill levels and makes sure everyone gets something out of it.

How long does the tour last?

The workshop usually runs around 2–3 hours, depending on group size and pace.

Are tickets to Château d’Amboise included?

Yes, your entrance fee is covered in the tour price.

What’s included

Your ticket includes entry to Château d’Amboise plus personal photography tuition from award-winning local photographer Mark Playle. Just bring your camera—everything else is sorted.