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11th June 2026

National Geographic Traveller (UK) brings together leading travel photographers for its Masterclasses event 

Masterclasses 2026

National Geographic Traveller (UK) brings together leading travel photographers for its Masterclasses event 

An audience of aspiring and established photographers joined National Geographic Traveller (UK) on 9 June for The Masterclasses — a three-part online event that aimed to demonstrate how to become The Complete Travel Photographer.  

Hosted by senior members of National Geographic Traveller (UK)’s editorial team, and sponsored by MPB, the sessions brought together seven of most experienced photographers currently working in travel, who guided viewers through subjects such as building a portfolio and shooting for social media. 

The three sessions explored every stage of the photographic journey. They included 

  • What an Editor Really Wants: Moderated by Ben Rowe, senior picture editor at National Geographic Traveller (UK) with presentations from Irjaliina Paavonpera and Lauryn Ishak. 
  • Shooting for the Modern Media Landscape: Moderated by Berkok Yüksel, senior content strategist at National Geographic Traveller (UK) , with presentations from Florian Kriechbaumer and Jessica Jungbauer. 
  • Building the Right Kit for the Assignment: Moderated by Aisha Nazar, picture editor at National Geographic Traveller (UK), with presentations from Matt Dutile, Chris Gorman and Annapurna Mellor. 

 
Attendees were also able to enjoy: 

  • Practical guidance: sessions covered essential skills such as understanding what editors are looking for, tailoring work to social platforms and identifying the right equipment for the brief.  
  • Interactive learning: attendees engaged directly with speakers in live Q&A segments, gaining personalised insights and advice.  
  • Ongoing access: all participants will receive recordings of the sessions, so they can revisit the lessons and build on their learnings. These recordings are now on sale to the general public.

The event attracted a record audience, with viewer numbers increasing by 253% compared with the previous event, underlining growing demand for expert-led photography education and industry insight. 

The Complete Travel Photographer was the final instalment in a season of high-profile photography events from National Geographic Traveller (UK), which also encompassed the brand’s annual Photography Competition and an accompanying awards ceremony, held at the Samsung KX in King’s Cross in May, as well as the ongoing open-air Photography Competition Exhibition, which runs in Coal Drops Yard in King’s Cross until 12 July. 

 
Ben Rowe, senior picture editor at National Geographic Traveller (UK), said: “What a fantastic evening of discussion and insight into the world of travel photography. We were treated to captivating work from an exceptional group of photographers, who shared stories, techniques and experiences behind their images. Their wealth of knowledge and experience really opened up the world of travel photography to our readers.” 

Recordings of all three sessions were shared with ticket-holders, regardless of whether they had been able to attend the event.  

Those who did not book a ticket for the live online event can purchase the recordings of The Masterclasses: The Complete Travel Photographer here: https://ngtr.uk/4vHr4pW

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About APL Media  
APL Media is a multi-award-winning content marketing agency and publisher, creating high-quality print, digital and live media across the travel and lifestyle sectors since 1997. It has published National Geographic Traveller (UK) under licence from National Geographic Partners LLC since 2010, alongside brand extensions including guides, events and digital platforms. Its portfolio includes Living360, a digital lifestyle brand spanning wellness, travel, food, sustainability and culture.   

APL Media delivers custom content, branded campaigns and editorial consultancy, internship schemes including Step Up and produces leading events such as the Travel Media Awards. It is also a leading reseller of advertising for national newspapers. Its trade titles include Postcards and the ASTA Worldwide Destination Guide, with content also created for national newspapers. aplmedia.co.uk