At Finca Bella Vida, we have 8 distinctive cabins that come in a variety of sizes and styles, from full casitas with kitchenettes to studios and hotel-style bedroom and bathroom combinations.
James, the founder of Real Cool Photography Tours, has dedicated the past five decades to capturing stunning images for both work and personal enjoyment. Initially, his passion for photography led him on a personal quest to find the perfect shot. This quest transformed into a mission to guide photographers from around the globe as to how to immerse themselves in opportunities to create breathtaking photographs of Costa Rica’s natural beauty.
James’s professional background as an industrial photographer has honed his unique teaching style. He emphasizes the importance of slowing down, observing the subtle nuances of light, and capturing the stories that nature silently conveys. His deep understanding of technology and digital imagery makes his simple mentoring sessions and demonstrations even more accessible and effective.
James’s tours go beyond mere technical skills acquisition. They aim to foster a profound connection with the environment. Participants can experience the misty embrace of dawn, the enchanting echoes of howler monkeys through the trees, and the patience required to capture that elusive perfect moment.
When not guiding tours, James is often experimenting with innovative editing workflows in Lightroom, scouting remote locations, and planning his next adventure. His approach is straightforward: to inspire people to see beyond the ordinary and capture photographs that truly resonate with their souls.
We publish exact details the week before the tour takes place. In the event of inclement weather we can adjust the trips to suit.
Day 1:
Early start from your hotel to a tour of the mangrove swamps about an hour from San Jose. After that From San José, the drive to our finca is an estimated three-hour journey, taking you through some of Costa Rica’s most breathtaking landscapes. As you approach the Tinamaste region, the road narrows, and the pavement gives way to unpaved, winding mountain roads. Hold on tight.
Once we arrive time to settle in and unpack. There’s an opportunity to swim in the pool and hang out in the pool area. For those interested a “set up lightroom for travel” is the subject of the day.
Day 2:
Time for some exercise. Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park is about an hour away.
Themes: Waterfalls, jungle, swimming holes.
Day 3:
Themes: Portraits, process shots, storytelling.
Day 4:
Time for a focus on birds, A trip to a local farm that has two outstanding qualities. They make great pizza and have a stunning number of birds of all types on their property.
After as long as itn takes to get some great birsd shots, it’s time pfor pizza made fresh by the farm owner.
Day 5:
Down to the ocean to see the wild monkey on the beach. They are friendly and photogeniquie. It’s a bit of a drive but well worth it. The beach is a favorite with the locals, but features rugged scenery and a beautiful shoreline.
