BFOP 2024 WORKSHOPS

More coming soon...updated 03/09/2024

2024 SCHEDULE IS NOW LIVE

Charly & Brendan's Great Escape

with Brendan Waites & Charlie Brown

  • Genre: Landscape
  • Location: Bus departing BFOP HQ
  • Transport: TBA
  • Length: 10hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: Camera, any lenses you own, spare battery highly recommended, tripod. *please bring a water bottle and a packed lunch. Snacks will be provided. There will be very limited opportunity to purchase food. As we will be ascending Mount Hotham, warm clothing is highly recommended along with sun protection.
  • Fitness level: Short walks on some uneven surfaces
  • Group size: 40 per session (2 groups of 20)

Jump on the adventure bus and head for the hills! Victoria’s STUNNING high country will be yours to capture under the guidance of 2 (count them, 2!) very experienced Landscape Photographers, Charlie Brown and Brendan Waites. Charlie Brown is not only a local to these here parts, he also runs a successful photographic gallery in Mount Beauty and has been a stalwart of BFOP since its inception.

Brendan Waites has been in the photographic industry since 1994 and runs many a workshop from his Camera Shop in Ocean Grove, and is one half of The Down South Photo Show podcast.

Together Charlie and Brendan will take you on an Epic journey to some beautiful landscape photography opportunities, including Mount Beauty, Bogong Village, Rocky Valley and Fainter Creeks, Harrietville and the piece de resistance, Mount Hotham approaching Sunset for possibly the best view in Victoria. We’ll have a lot of laughs along the way as we roll through this wonderful area.  

What are the learnings people can expect?

1. Correct use of appropriate lenses in various landscape scenarios.
2. How to correctly use filters, including Polarisers and ND Filters.
3. Composition for a balanced landscape.
4. Monochrome landscapes.
5. Understanding Aperture in Landscapes.
6. How to master landscape photography in ANY light.

Unleash Your Inner Sports Photographer: Capture the Thrill of the Game!

with Jenn Cooper from Canon

  • Genre: Sports Photography
  • Location: The Pavilion (1.4km from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Walk / Self Drive
  • Length: 1.5hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Short walk, even unpaved surfaces
  • Group size: 20 per session
Join us for an action-packed event where you’ll learn how to capture those split-second moments that make sports so exhilarating. From freezing a soccer player’s gravity-defying kick to snapping a high-speed bike race with precision, we’ll teach you the tricks of the trade. Discover how to master lighting, timing, and composition to turn fleeting moments into frame-worthy memories.
What are the 3 learnings people can expect?: 1. Master highspeed focusing skills
2. Learn how to utilise camera settings to maximise the shots you keep
3. Experiment with lighting techniques to bring drama into your sports action photos
Short description of how the workshop will run: Expect hands-on practice with pro tips from experienced photographer, interactive exercises, and even a chance to shoot live action as it unfolds. By the end of the workshop, you’ll have the skills to make your sports photos as dynamic and thrilling as the games themselves. Bring your camera, your passion, and your game face—because it’s time to score some incredible shots!

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Master highspeed focusing skills
2. Learn how to utilise camera settings to maximise the shots you keep
3. Experiment with lighting techniques to bring drama into your sports action photos

Luscious Landscapes

with Tom Putt

  • Genre: Landscape Photography
  • Location: Mt Buffalo
  • Transport: Bus leaving BFOP HQ
  • Length: 2hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Short to medium walk, uneven surfaces
  • Group size: 20 per session
Welcome to “Luscious Landscapes,” a photography workshop designed to immerse you in the art of capturing the breathtaking beauty of nature. In this workshop, you will learn how to harness the power of natural light, composition, and creative techniques to transform ordinary landscapes into stunning visual masterpieces. Whether you’re a beginner eager to explore the world of landscape photography or an experienced photographer looking to refine your skills, “Luscious Landscapes” offers hands-on guidance, expert tips, and real-time feedback. Join us to elevate your photography and create images that evoke emotion and tell the story of the landscapes around you. What are the 3 learnings people can expect?: harness the power of natural light, composition, and creative techniques to transform ordinary landscapes into stunning visual masterpieces

What are the learnings people can expect?
Harness the power of natural light, composition, and creative techniques to transform ordinary landscapes into stunning visual masterpieces.

Pre-FOP Skills Refresher

with Christine Bernasconi

  • Genre: Photography Refresher
  • Location: BFOP HQ (Bright Community Centre)
  • Transport: Walk
  • Length: 1.5hr
  • Skill level: Beginners
  • Equipment: Camera, lens
  • Fitness level: Walking round town
  • Group size: 20 per session
Been a while since you let that camera see daylight? Maybe you just want to solidify the basics before launching into the festival?
 
Join Christine at the Pre-fop workshop designed to up-skill you in photography and learn more about YOUR camera. Take a walk around the beautiful town of Bright, practicing different techniques as you go, so you can feel confident at all the other brilliant workshops you’ve booked for the weekend. Chris will discuss various aspects of photography, including composition, storytelling, and the art of truly ‘seeing.’ This aspect will elevate your photos from ordinary to EXTRAORDINARY!
 
You will have the opportunity to ask as many questions as you like – Chris is a photography genre all-rounder and has extensive knowledge of most cameras on the market.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Brush up on basic & advanced photography skills including choice of camera modes, histograms, ISO & lens choice and more!
2. Learn how to really SEE, connect and compose your chosen photography subject using different angles, light and storytelling techniques.
3. Receive personalised information about YOUR camera.

Shooting wildlife without killing anything

with Matt Krumins

  • Genre: Wildlife
  • Location: Red Stag Emu & Deer Farm (20min drive from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Self Drive
  • Length: 1.5hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: Camera, telephoto lens
  • Fitness level: Short walk on uneven surfaces
  • Group size: 20 per session
Join Matt Krumins for a crash course in the lesser-talked-about techniques of wildlife photography. No more ‘shutter priority mode she’ll be right’ nonsense, this workshop is all about being prepared for the moment without over complicating it. Get his tips and tricks for shooting all types of wildlife as well as hands on shooting time!

What are the learnings people can expect?
 1. The simplest way to deal with settings for wildlife
2. Perspective & composition tools
3. All there is to know about autofocus

All Photography Has To Offer

with Adam Dyson

  • Genre: Adventure
  • Location: Canyon Walk (800m from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Walk
  • Length: 2hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: Camera, Lens, filters available for loan
  • Fitness level: Long flat'ish walk, uneven track
  • Group size: 20 per session
Sometimes photography is more about exploring than the actual images. You never know what you’re going to get. Join me on a “little” wander around the beautiful Canyon Walk. Shoot some landscape, some details shoots, macro, water movement and more. As I said, you never know what you’ll get.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Strong focus on composition
2. Tips on adjusting your eye to pick images before even looking at the camera
3. Using filters to enhance your photos – Marco tips and tricks

Hidden Gems - Dog Photography Walk

with Jo Howell

  • Genre: Pets
  • Location: Walk leaving BFOP HQ
  • Transport: Walk
  • Length: 1.5hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: Camera, Lens
  • Fitness level: Walk around town
  • Group size: 20 per session
Join us for “Hidden Gems – Dog Photography Walk.” This workshop is designed to teach dog photography basics and the art of finding great photography locations in everyday environments. In this hands-on session, you will learn how to spot ideal locations, how to choose the best lenses, and camera settings to capture stunning photos. We will cover essential dog photography techniques, including posing and composition, handling dogs safely in public spaces, and using natural light effectively. You will have the opportunity to practice your skills during a relaxed walk around Bright and live shoot with our canine friends. With time for experimentation, questions, feedback and tips. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, this workshop is a fun way to play with cameras, dogs and find the beauty in the everyday.

What are the learnings people can expect?
 1. Basics of working with pets including safety.
2. How to find great locations/angles to make amazing images, no matter your shooting environment.
3. Posing your pets, to show off personality.

Fire Flow Forest

with Aaron Walker

  • Genre: Portrait
  • Location: Red Earth Lodge (20min drive from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Carpool recommended
  • Length: 1.5hrs
  • Skill level: Intermediat & Advanced
  • Equipment: Camera, Lens
  • Fitness level: Short walk in dark on uneven surfaces
  • Group size: 20 per session
Explore the blending of low ambient light, vibrant coloured lighting, and the mesmerising glow of fire. In this hands-on session, you’ll capture dynamic and visually stunning moments as flow artists perform with fire, showcasing their skills with a variety of fiery props and choreographed movements. This is an opportunity to elevate your photography skills, experiment with creative lighting techniques, and add a dramatic flair to your festival experience. Join us for some fiery forest fun.

What are the learnings people can expect?
 1. How to expose for ambient and artificial light
2. How to capture dynamic moments with physical performers.
3. How to manipulate your camera settings to amplify the effect of movement and lighting.
4. Work with colour lighting harmonies

Wet & Wild Water Workshop

with Adam Dyson

  • Genre: Landscape
  • Location: Ladies Bath Falls area (20min drive from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Self Drive
  • Length: 1.5hrs
  • Skill level: Intermediate & Advanced
  • Equipment: Camera, Lens
  • Fitness level: Moderate walk in on unsealed track
  • Group size: 20 per session
Ever wondered how those damn landscape photographers get the perfect, silky smooth yet dynamic water shots? From how to manage your 3 legged friend (Your tripod ;)) to how and when to use both polarising and ND filters. Join me at Eurobin Creek and let’s dial in some epic water movement shots.

What are the learnings people can expect?
 1. How and when to use polarising and ND filters to achieve long exposures
2. How to use your tripod to get a more dynamic image
3. How to use your foreground to make the perfect image

Portraiture in Harmony

with Jess Shepherd

  • Genre: Portrait
  • Location: Centenary Park (800m from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Walk
  • Length: 1.5hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: Camera, Lens
  • Fitness level: Short walk on even surfaces
  • Group size: 20 per session
Do you have an interest in portraiture but it makes you kinda nervous? Not sure where to begin, how to connect or even get yourself ready? This workshop we will talk our way through how to get started, basic tricks and techniques on connecting with a model. We will also focus on how to prepare yourself so that you are calm, collected and confident for the shoot (which in turn helps to create kick-ass images!)

What are the learnings people can expect?
 1. How to help yourself become calm, collected and confident to shoot portraiture.
2. Basics on how to speak to a model and organise a shoot.
3. A few ideas on how to look out for great locations, and how to make the best of busy areas.

Glow Flow Portraits

with Aaron Walker

  • Genre: Portrait
  • Location: Bright Courthouse Theatre (350m from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Walk (steep hill), limited parking for drivers
  • Length: 1.5hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: A wider & longer lens
  • Fitness level: Mostly sedentary
  • Group size: 20 per session
Step into a vibrant world of coloured lighting and discover the art of capturing captivating promotional portraits and performance images of flow artists as they dance with glowing staffs. In this immersive experience, you’ll have the opportunity to create dynamic and visually striking portraits that highlight the energy and grace of the performers. We’ll explore the use of colour harmonies to enhance your images, while diving into the intricacies of model posing, lighting directions, angles, and compositions. Whether you’re focusing on the fluidity of movement or the intensity of the performers’ expressions, this session will equip you with the techniques to create portraits that resonate.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. How to expose for coloured lighting indoors 2. Using colour Harmonies to balance your hues 3. Model posing and direction 4. Lighting Direction for portraits

Photographing The Witcher (Cosplay)

with Ian Tan

  • Genre: Portrait
  • Location: Nine Steps Lodge
  • Transport: Self Drive
  • Length: 2hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: A wider & longer lens
  • Fitness level: Uneven terrain, not a long walk
  • Group size: 20 per session
Join Ian Tan as you take to the forest to capture the hero shots of Fuji’s best dressed Cosplay artists. Not heard of cosplay before? Cosplayers dress up in a costume accurate to, or inspired by, the character they are role-playing. The characters usually come from various genres in pop culture: film and TV, animation, video games, or even an original character from the imagination of the cosplayer. Cosplay photography aims to capture the essence and tell the story of the character being cosplayed using photography techniques and lighting (LED lights provided). The interpersonal aspect is also important and participants will have the opportunity to work with 2 experienced cosplayers and learn how to communicate with and pose them.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. How to compose your image to tell a story.
2. How to communicate with, and pose a cosplayer.
3. How to light a scene for drama and impact.

Not Formula One, But Close

with Denis Smith

  • Genre: Lightpainting Photography
  • Location: The Pavilion (1.4km from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Walk / Self Drive
  • Length: 1.5hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Uneven surfaces in the dark
  • Group size: 20 per session
Nick reckons he can get a formula one car to Bright, I doubt it. So we will make do with whatever is cruising around. Denis was commissioned to create a series of images for F1, in Jeddah, on an F1 track, at this workshop he is going to show you to make your honda jazz, look close! I bet Nick brings his bike along, in liew of an F! car.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. How to add light to a scene by hand
2. How to create shape by understand the angles of light
3. How to pose a subject for a portrait

The Art of Seeing Sunrise

with Tom Putt

  • Genre: Landscape Photography
  • Location: Mt Buffalo
  • Transport: Bus departing BFOP HQ
  • Length: 2hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level:
  • Group size: 20 per session
There are many photography workshops out there these days. It’s fantastic – it gives you, the photographer, heaps of ways to learn. But the best way I feel I can help you, as a photographer, is not always taught – and that’s the art of seeing and storytelling. I feel that one of my gifts as a photographer is getting to a location and being able to identify what to shoot and how – what angle, what composition, what lens, and what exposure. This allows me to do the landscape justice and tell the best
STORY. THE ART OF SEEING & STORYTELLING.. These workshops are designed for those who want to learn and develop this. This is not a workshop about how to use your camera – but, of course, I will help you with this.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. If you struggle with composition and doing a place justice – this workshop is for you.
2. If you struggle to get the right angles – this workshop is for you.
3. If you look at your images and think they could be better – this workshop is for you.
4. If you want to develop your photography and storytelling skills – this workshop is for you.

The Last (Shibari)

with Kym Vulling

  • Genre: Portrait Photography
  • Location: Wandi Hall (10min drive from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Self Drive
  • Length: 1.5hr
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Indoor, mostly sedentary
  • Group size: 20 per session
Bringing Shibari back one last time to Bright, and we are upping the drama and the intimacy. Shibari is the ancient Japanese art of rope bondage or ‘tying someone up’, as a different and very different take on an artistic shoot. By using body, movement, and rope, Kym and her fabulous models will help you create some stunning images using constant lights. Push your experience with the challenges of photographing a tantalising performance. In this workshop you will get the opportunity to work with low and coloured lighting, constant studio light set ups and capturing shape, form and connection. This time with a more theatrical blend of event and portrait photography, you should walk away with some magical shots and a better understanding of this edgy and historic art form.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Performance photography
2. Low light photography
3. Capturing Connection

BMX Skate Park Catastrophe

with Nick Fletcher

  • Genre: Sports Photography
  • Location: Myrtleford Skate Park (30min drive from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Self Drive
  • Length: 2hr
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Short walk, even surfaces
  • Group size: 20 per session
As well as helping run BFOP, Nick is a living action sports legend. Just ask him! He’s shot downhill mountainbike, slopestyle, BMX racing, freestyle motorcross BUT he’s never shot BMX in a skate park. Come and pop your skate park cherry with Nick and two of Australia’s best BMX’ers. This should be an absolute hoot. With great riders, some banging tunes and more energy than the Latrobe Valley it will be going off! We’ll start with a short expression session for the riders and the photographers where you can shoot what you like. We’ll then work on some classic skate part shots including the wide angle close up, the panning shot (with flash for those who have one) and freezing action. We’ll be close and wide most of the day so leave your 400mm f2.8 in the car and get the 15mm / fisheye out! Who doesn’t love having their lens 10 cm from a riders face! This workshop should work whatever your skill level, and we can work around any camera and lens combination (other than really long lenses!!).

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. How to use a wide angle lens for dramatic effect. We’ll be pushing you to get REALLY close, teaching you how to manage focus and depth of field and how to work with riders. This will give you the classic skate park wide angle shot. Some of you are going to find this really intimidating!
2. How to pan to create energy in your shots. We’ll be experimenting with wide angle panning, which is a whole different thing and for those who have it well be working in camera mounted flash and backlighting. 3. We’ll be freezing action and working on nailing timing with riders doing tricks that last a fraction of a session. We’ll be working around focusing limitations and learning how to be thoughtful about where in the trick we are freezing the rider.

Using Available Light to Create Mood

with Chris Hopkins

  • Genre: Portrait Photography
  • Location: Senior Citizens Centre (200m from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Walk
  • Length: 2hr
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Even surfaces, short walk
  • Group size: 20 per session
Stimulating emotion from the audience is vital to successful story-telling. A successful image will always induce some form of emotion. Whether you want the viewer to feel empathy, laugh, cry or be shocked, the lighting used will be a key element in informing this emotion and sometimes, the only tool we have. This workshop will provide an instructive session on the concepts behind creating a mood with lighting. In this session Chris will identify and share the different techniques he employs as a photojournalist to create a look and to evoke a defined emotion explaining the why and how. The workshop will have a particular emphasis on utilising the environment you find yourself in. Bring your cameras as this will be a hands on session!

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Identifying light sources from everyday situations
2. Adapting that light to create mood and emotion
3. Identifying why and how certain light sources affect mood

Slow food, Fast Food

with Karl Ludik

  • Genre: Food Photography
  • Location: The Pavilion (1.4km from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: TBA
  • Length: 2hr
  • Skill level: Beginners, Enthusiasts
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Mostly Sedentary
  • Group size: 20 per session
Give life to your food photography by introducing the element of movement. In this course we will use shutter speed, light, and some crafty edits to either inject movement, or the illusion of movement, into your images. First we’ll cover a brief recap of composing, lighting and plating food, then we’ll play with light and speed and fun and food.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. A basic understanding of lighting and styling for food photography
2. Experiment with light and speed to introduce movement to still images
3. Some basic editing skills to bring the image to completion.

Get closer...

with Aaron Harivel

  • Genre: Macro Photography
  • Location: Walk leaving BFOP HQ
  • Transport: Walk
  • Length: 1.5hr
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Short to medium walk, unsealed surfaces
  • Group size: 20 per session
Come and join Aaron from OM SYSTEM to power through the challenges of macro photography.
In this session we will focus on overcoming the challenges of upclose shooting with the latest camera technology, help you find the right equipment and have a great time with very good looking people while we do it! OM SYSTEM cameras and lenses will be available for loan, otherwise feel free to BYO camera, macro lenses, flashes, modifier, tripods etc. All knowledege and experience levels are welcome.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Overcoming macro photography specific challenges
2. Find the best ways to use the available light
3. Using the latest camera technology to get you ultimate results

Great Portraits in Shit Locations... but at NIGHT!!!

with Glynn Lavender

  • Genre: Portrait Photography
  • Location: Walk leaving BFOP HQ
  • Transport: Walk
  • Length: 2hr
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level:
  • Group size: 20 per session
We hit the bustling streets of downtown Bright as the sun begins to set and, with the help of some fabulous LED lighting, look to capture some great portraits in far from ideal locations.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Learn to use lighting to capture dynamic portraits
2. Learn to make the most out of less than ideal locations
3. Learn how to use lenses to craft portraits

Making a splash

with Jo Howell

  • Genre: Pet Photography
  • Location: Centenary Park (800m from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Walk / Self Drive
  • Length: 1.5hr
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Short Walk
  • Group size: 20 per session
Unleash your creativity and capture the joy of canine play with our “Making A Splash!” photography workshop! This hands-on workshop is dedicated to photographing water loving pooches. Whether they’re leaping into a pool, chasing waves at the beach, or splashing in a stream, water loving dogs provide endless opportunities for dynamic photography. This workshop is ideal for photographers of all levels who love dogs and want to enhance their action photography skills. Bring along, your camera of choice. Favourite lenses. A 70-200mm would be great, but any lens is fine. Perhaps a towel (just in case you get too close to the action?) Come ready to have fun, learn some new skills and watch a dog that loves water have time of its life! Let’s make a splash together!

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Tips and tricks for working with dogs.
2. How to freeze motion.
3. Working with natural light.

Portrait and Editorial Workshop with Model

with Eric Peng

  • Genre: Editorial Portrait Photography
  • Location: Red Earth Lodge (20min drive from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Carpool
  • Length: 2hr
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Indoor, mostly sedentary
  • Group size: 20 per session

Join Eric for an immersive Portrait and Editorial Workshop. This workshop is open to all camera users and brands, offering a unique opportunity to explore advanced techniques in portrait photography. Experience the latest in autofocus technology as we delve into the art of directing a model for stunning editorial shots. Learn how to effectively utilize innovative camera features to capture compelling portraits with confidence. Led by Sony advocate Eric Peng, this workshop promises expert guidance and insider tips on maximizing your photography skills and shooting a model.

Gear Experience: Participants will have the exclusive opportunity to try a limited selection of Sony camera gear, including models equipped with the new Sony AI Autofocus chip and top-of-the-range G Master lenses. Bring a spare SD card if you wish to capture and review your shots with this cutting-edge equipment.

This workshop is designed for photographers of all levels, regardless of camera brand. Whether you’re a Sony enthusiast or use another camera system, you’ll benefit from learning advanced portrait techniques and the latest in autofocus technology.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Hands-On Learning: Practice with a professional model to refine your portrait composition and lighting skills.
2. Technical Insights: Gain valuable insights into using Sony cameras for portrait and editorial photography, including optimizing settings and leveraging AI features.
3. Interactive Session: Engage directly with experienced instructors who will guide you through practical exercises and answer your questions.

Where we're going, we don't need colour...

with Cam Blake

  • Genre: Landscape Photography
  • Location: Cresta Valley, Mt Buffalo (60min drive from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Self Drive
  • Length: 2hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Short to medium walk, unsealed tracks
  • Group size: 20 per session
We are back again for the ever popular Black and White Landscape photography workshops.
Landscape photography isn’t all about the brilliant colours and magic hours, you can still capture beautiful images in the “off hours” of the day when the light isn’t always its best. We will be exploring the region during the harsher periods of the day to capture interesting and colourless landscape images.
Learn how to see passed the colours in a landscape and focus on the tonal ranges and textures that many landscape images will have. We will be shooting in our Black and White modes on any camera to learn how to compose and capture striking black and white images for the region.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. How to find and use their camera’s B&W mode
2. How to look for and find interesting compositions
3. How to make the most out of light that isn’t magic hour – a great skill to learn for travel when you might not get the light you hope for

PART 2: Storytelling through photography

with Harriet Tarbuck (Part 1 by Chris Hopkins)

  • Genre: Photo Journalism
  • Location: Senior Citizens Centre (200m from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Walk
  • Length: 2hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Short walk
  • Group size: 20 per session
In this workshop we will be looking at how we can make images that tell a story. We’ll begin by looking into and discussing how other photographers’ create narrative through taking photos, editing a selection and sequencing the final images. Then we’ll look at your work! There will be the opportunity to take your own photo story during this session in beautiful Bright or you are also welcome to bring any projects you are working on from home in either digital or print form. This can also be applied to single images so bring it all along! An ideal partner workshop to this, will be Chris Hopkins ‘Photo Essay in a Day – That’s Unpossible’ where you will learn about creating imagery with a Photo Essay in mind. In whichever form you have taken the imagery, Chris and I will work with you to bring the story to life through storyboarding your photography. This is an opportunity for you to show your own work, get direct feedback on your photography and receive knowledge and skills to develop further as you move through your photography journey.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. How to develop a story through your images.
2. Editing your images down to create a narrative.
3. Sequencing your images.

PART 1: Photo Essay in a Day - That's Unpossible

with Chris Hopkins (Part 2 by Harriet Tarbuck)

  • Genre: Photo Journalism
  • Location: Senior Citizens Centre (200m from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Walk
  • Length: 2hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Mostly sedentary
  • Group size: 20 per session
With a nod to the traditional picture stories of W. Eugene Smith and Don McCullin, Chris Hopkins will guide participants in the art of the Photo Essay. In a hands on, interactive approach, participants will be set a predetermined time to get out amongst the township of Bright and produce a series of images that form an identified visual narrative of their own choosing. What to include. Where to begin. Targeting an audience. Concepts and ideas. A positive and supportive workshop, participants will be encouraged to explore these fundamentals of visual story-telling in their own style. To make the most of the project, participants are encouraged to bring the work to the ‘Storytelling through Photography’ workshop where Chris and the Photo Collective’s Harriet Tarbuck will conduct a discussion on how to make the most impactful photo essay through intelligent storyboarding and sequencing with the Bright imagery.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. What to include in a photo essay
2. How to construct a visual narrative with multiple images
3. How to match an idea to a visual story

Faken' Baken'

with Emily Black

  • Genre: Food Photography
  • Location: Red Earth Lodge (20min drive from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Carpool
  • Length: 1.5hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Mostly Sedentary
  • Group size: 20 per session
Simple baked treats, photographed so nice it’ll look like you baked it yourself. We’re going to use available and constant light to make photos of store bought bakery treats look like they’re homemade. We’ll work on styling to look homely, but not distracting, and understanding how the direction and temperature of light creates mood in an image.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Understanding and using available and constant light
2. Incorporating reflectors
3. creating your own simple backgrounds and small sets.

Equine Illuminated - Dancing in Light

with Louise Sedgman

  • Genre: Equine Photography
  • Location: Rimini Park (20min drive from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Self Drive
  • Length: 2hrs
  • Skill level: Enthusiasts, Avanced
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Short walk, uneven surfaces
  • Group size: 20 per session
Imagine beautiful horses dancing under coloured lights in a performance that won’t just tantalize your senses, it will give you goose bumps all over! The opportunity to create stunning portraits that are magical and creative, during a workshop that will inspire you into the world of fine art photography. Using constant lighting, you will discover first-hand how to work with horses and make portfolio-worthy imagery.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Safety and working with animals
2. Fine art Portraiture, Posing, Composition and lighting to create dramatic and stunning portraits that will broadly expand your photography knowledge and give you the skills to take your portrait photos up to a whole other level.
3. Using creative and alternative lighting sources.

Finding Fabulous Foregrounds

with Adam Edwards

  • Genre: Landscape Photography
  • Location: The Cathedral, Mt Buffalo
  • Transport: Bus departing BFOP HQ
  • Length: 2hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Short to medium walk, uneven surfaces
  • Group size: 20 per session
Have you ever wondered why some landscape photos stand out while others seem dull? The secret often lies in the foreground!
Join me for “Finding Fabulous Foregrounds,” where we’ll delve into the art of using foregrounds to enhance your photos. We’ll explore how these often-overlooked elements can transform your shots from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, this workshop will help you create photos that make people say, “Wow, how did you do that?

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Spotting Fab Foregrounds: We will sharpen our ability to identify natural and man-made elements that will enhance your photos. You will learn to see the world from a fresh perspective and recognize opportunities for captivating foregrounds wherever you go.
2. Mastering Depth and Perspective: Prepare to add depth to your photos. We will explore techniques for using foregrounds to create layers in your shots, captivating viewers in new ways.
3.Balancing Your Shots Like a Pro: Say goodbye to cluttered compositions! We will delve into the art of balancing foreground, midground, and background elements to create captivating images that tell a story and keep your audience engaged.

Light Painting Portraiture On The Edge

with Denis Smith

  • Genre: Lightpainting Photography
  • Location: Wandi Hall (10min drive from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Self Drive
  • Length: 1.5hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Mostly sedentary unless waving light wands...
  • Group size: 20 per session
Join Denis in the courthouse for another incredible light painting portrait session. Every year Denis steps up the courthouse experience, and this year we will be on the edge pushing the boundaries of dark and light.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. How to shape light by hand
2. The importance of connection between subject and artist
3. The importance of taking risks when creating art

Crazy, Weird and Different Portraits!

with Bruce Moyle

  • Genre: Abstract Photography
  • Location: Bright Courthouse Theatre
  • Transport: Walk / Self drive (limited parking)
  • Length: 1.5hr
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Mostly sedentary
  • Group size: 20 per session
Back by popular demand! This year we take mixing strobe and constant lighting with suspect camera settings to another level. Creating photos is all too often about being perfect. Come and find out how to break some rules and create some uniquely different portraits. Try living on the edge. Make something just strange, weird and for a short time a digital mess. You can always format your cards afterwards to hide the evidence.
NOTE: Anyone with photo sensitive seizures, this probably isn’t the workshop for you sorry.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Learn how to do a basic strobe portrait
2. Find out how to mix long exposure with flash
3. How to experiment with different lights and props.

Getting down and streety

with Adrian Whear

  • Genre: Street & Travel
  • Location: TBA
  • Transport: TBA
  • Length: 2hr
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level:
  • Group size: 15 per session
Have you ever wanted to capture the stories and art of the streets through your camera lens? Uncover the artistry of street photography in this immersive workshop, where every corner tells a story waiting to be captured. The workshop is designed to sharpen your skills, expand your creative vision and test your knees.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Fundamentals of Street Photography: Learn how to find compelling subjects
2. Light and Shadow: use natural light and shadows to add depth and drama to your photographs.
3. Composition: Change your shooting POV to create more dynamic compositions and visually engaging images

Adventure Wedding Photography

with Jesse Hisco

  • Genre: Adventure Portrait Photography
  • Location: Mt Buffalo, TBA
  • Transport: Self Drive
  • Length: 2hr
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Medium walk, uneven surfaces
  • Group size: 20 per session
During this workshop I’ll be explaining how and why I combined my passion for story telling and outdoor adventure. We’ll cover the basics of what makes an epic for an adventure wedding story, how to identify + use available light and how to create wedding portraits that absolutely stink of adventure.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. How to identify and use available light sources in any situation
2. How to create a story through composition
3. How to direct subjects to capture authentic and organic interaction

Shaken or Stirred?

with Emily Black

  • Genre: Still life / product
  • Location: Red Earth Lodge (20min drive from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Carpool
  • Length: 1.5hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Mostly Sedentary
  • Group size: 20 per session
It’s happy hour. We’re going to get a little tipsy, figuratively speaking. We’ll pour some wine, drop some ice cubes, and capture the splash of liquid to create an enticing product image. We’ll create dramatic lighting and a moody scene to showcase the brand.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Creating a brand image showcasing product.
2. How to light for dramatic impact.
3. Styling for glassware/bottles and liquid product.

Shifty Shapeshifting

with Vicki Bell

  • Genre: Portrait Photography
  • Location: Porepunkah Community Hall (10min drive from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Self Drive
  • Length: 1.5hr
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Mostly sedentary
  • Group size: 20 per session
Discover the art of shaping light in simple and exciting ways! Learn how to explore angles and simple tools, such as reflectors and constant light sources, to transform your portraits. Explore traditional lighting styles and create your own! Learn how to change the narrative, look, feel, and shape of a face by mastering these techniques. Additionally, you’ll gain valuable insights into posing and directing techniques to bring out the best in your subjects. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this workshop will provide you with practical knowledge and hands-on experience to elevate your photography to new heights.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Participants will learn how to use angles, reflectors, and constant light sources to effectively shape light, transforming the look, feel, and shape of a subject’s face in their portraits.
2. Participants will acquire essential posing principles and directing techniques, enabling them to confidently guide their subjects to achieve the desired angles, expressions and poses that complement their lighting setup

Cryogenic for a Year, Photoshop AI Went Boom! Now What?

with Karen Alsop

  • Genre: Fine Art Photography
  • Location: Senior Citizens Centre (200m from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Walk
  • Length: 2hr
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Sedentary
  • Group size: 20 per session
After a year-long hiatus due to personal trauma, Karen Alsop re-entered a world buzzing with AI advancements. Before her world exploded in April 2023, she felt secure as a creative digital photographer, confident in her unique anthropomorphic artworks that AI couldn’t replicate. Now, in her gradual return to artistic photography, Karen embraces new tools within Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Firefly, and other AI-driven technologies. Her fresh perspective, born from necessity, offers you faster workflows without sacrificing artistic integrity. Discover what techniques thrive and which ones falter as Karen navigates this evolving landscape. With a mastery of classic Photoshop and a newfound command of its futuristic iterations, she invites you to journey into the AI rabbit hole. Embrace the future of creative technology alongside someone who knows both old-school Photoshop and its cutting-edge counterparts. Let Karen demystify AI and show you its creative potential without the fear.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Learn what is now possible for creative Photographic Artists, including new features on the horizon
2. Find clever ways to increase your editing workflows without sacrificing your artistic integrity
3. Discover the joy of making the impossible, possible through art! 

Bigger isn’t always better – Looking at iconic locations differently

with Jeff Freestone

  • Genre: Landscape Photography
  • Location: Challet & Crystal Brook Falls, Mt Buffalo (50min from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Self Drive
  • Length: 2hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Medium walk, uneven surfaces
  • Group size: 20 per session
If I had a dollar for the number of times I have witnessed photographer’s turn up to a location, grab the money shot and then leave I wouldn’t be instructing at this festival.. I’d be on a beach in the Bahamas!
In this workshop I will show you why spending the time to explore a location after taking the obvious image will not only improve your photography but help you create stunning images.
This workshop will look at creative and interesting ways to photograph small sections of the waterfall and surrounds. Utilising compositional and creative camera techniques I will show you how to create unique and compelling images that you may find more interesting than the traditional money shot.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Learn to slow down and how to identify small scenes in nature
2. Learn how to utilise conceptual qualities such as line, shape and form to create compelling compositions.
3. Understand the importance of ‘exclusion’ when considering your framing and how this simple concept can improve your landscape images.

“Retro Reverie: A Workshop on Film & Flash Photography”

with Anne Scott-Virtue

  • Genre: Portrait Photography (Flash)
  • Location: Nine Steps (20min drive from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Self Drive
  • Length: 2hr
  • Skill level: Advanced
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Short walk, a couple of stairs
  • Group size: 20 per session
Welcome to a whimsical journey into the world of film photography and creative flash techniques. Designed for seasoned photographers, this workshop explores the art of seamlessly incorporating film into a wedding day narrative and mastering flash photography for captivating day and night portraits. While shooting film isn’t mandatory, participants are invited to bring along a trusty old film camera and a roll of film, embracing the nostalgic allure of analog photography. Delve into the resurgence of film in wedding photography and the unique qualities of 35mm and medium format film. Join me as we refine your skills and infuse your wedding photography with timeless charm. Please bring along a flash and an off camera flash trigger if you have one.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. 35mm & Medium Format Film
2. Photography Creative use of flash photography
3. How to seamlessly incorporate film into a wedding day narrative.

How, What & Really?

with Bruce Moyle

  • Genre: Abstract Photography
  • Location: Walk departing BFOP HQ
  • Transport: Walk
  • Length: 1.5hr
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Walking around town
  • Group size: 20 per session
A lot of people pick up a camera as a hobby, for a challenge, even a creative pursuit but don’t go past the literal of what is exactly in front of them. Sometimes you need to just use the camera subjectively “wrong” to discover something different.
This workshop is very casual and is my go to type of photography for mental health, relaxation and sometimes less importantly beautiful abstract images. The best thing is that it’s super simple and really fun and you might just see the world slightly slightly differently afterwards.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Looking at your space with different eyes
3. Minimising distractions in a busy space
4. Creative workflow for any camera

Manual Mode is for Losers...!

with Cam Blake

  • Genre: Landscape Photography
  • Location: The Cathedral, Mt Buffalo
  • Transport: Self Drive
  • Length: 2hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Medium walk, uneven surfaces
  • Group size: 20 per session
Why does everyone say, “you have to shoot in Manual mode to be more creative” or “all the pro’s shoot landscapes in manual mode” – Rubbish. On this workshop we will dispel the myths of the Manual-mode-is-better, and show you how to take awesome landscape images in modes other than manual. Landscape photography is all about being in the moment and ensuring you will be ready to capture that light and moment when it happens. Shoot in modes that allow you to make adjustments quickly, and accurately to ensure you get that shot when the light is doing it thing! Manual mode… BE GONE!

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. How to operate their camera on modes other than Manual for landscape photography
2. Learn how to make decision with your camera quickly and accurately as the moments happen
3. Learn to understand the importance of your aperture in landscape photography

So I bought a flash

with Karl Ludik

  • Genre: Flash Photography
  • Location: The Pavilion (1.4km from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: TBA
  • Length: 2hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level:
  • Group size: 20 per session
So you bought a flash and don’t get the results you want? This workshop aims at getting that light back on your camera as we look at the theory behind the practice, then we’ll shoot in pairs. Learning how to control light in a studio environment and how to work with the sun to balance light outside. We should have flashes for everyone, but bring yours, because hey, you bought a flash didn’t you?

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. The theory of lighting
2. Painting portraits with light in a studio setting
3. Countering sunlight with a strobe as we shoot a portraits in the field.

Finding creativity after your world has fallen apart

with Karen Alsop

  • Genre: Fine Art / Storytelling
  • Location: Senior Citizens Centre (200m from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Walk
  • Length: 2hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Mostly sedentary
  • Group size: 20 per session
Finding creativity after your world has fallen apart Workshop Genre: Fine Art Workshop Description: Have you been through trauma, illness, or lack of inspiration and are looking for ways to bring creativity back into your world? Karen Alsop, Photographic Artist, has been there with you over the past year. Complex PTSD decimated her ability to survive in her business. But through other creative avenues, Karen has been able to slowly find her way back into her creative calling. Harnessing the pain and trauma and finding healthy ways to process through various forms of creativity has given her a way through the devastation. What better place to re-invigorate your photographic passion than Bfop. Let’s get back to it together!

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Karen will share some of her explosive (you can’t make this stuff up) experience and give examples of creative projects that have not only helped with processing, but also opened up a new world of healing for others sharing similar stories.
2. Karen will demonstrate new photographic, art, and writing methods that will make it easier to return to your creative self.
3. Through several practical assignments during the class, you will learn new methods that will fast-track you back to the space you desire to be in.

Bright's 1 & only gold mine environmental portrait workshop

with Craig Wetjen

  • Genre: Environmental Portrait Photography
  • Location: The Gold Mine (20min drive from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Self Drive
  • Length: 2.5hr
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Medium walk, rough unsealed track, tripping hazards
  • Group size: 20 per session
This workshop focuses on the details of getting the most out of your photoshoot focusing on details and most importantly the most out of your subject. This workshop will be a fun hands-on experience. Attendees will discover an understanding of the basic principles of lighting utilising off camera flash for an environmental portrait, the importance of photographing details and creating a connection with the subject

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Location lighting
2. Balancing Flash and ambient lighting
3. Subject interaction

The Brumby Princess

with Louise Sedgman

  • Genre: Equine Photography
  • Location: Rimini Park (20min drive from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Self Drive
  • Length: 2hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Short walk, uneven surfaces
  • Group size: 20 per session
This delightful workshop will bring your Disney dreams to life with a beautiful princess and her charming mountain brumby as they share their sweet story in a visual production filled with fancy dresses, diamond tiaras and all things magical. A portrait experience for you to capture this sweet pair amongst the trees and laneways of a stunning Ovens property that runs alongside the river… A portrait makers dream location.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Safety, Communication and Working with children and animals, specifically horses.
2. Portraiture, posing, camera settings and composition as well as embracing natural lighting.
3. Styling a shoot, the planning process and how to make your photography ideas become a reality.

Expose Yourself

with Dani Webb (Camera House)

  • Genre: Film Photography
  • Location: Bright Co-Working Space (100m from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Walk
  • Length: 2.5hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Steep narrow stairs
  • Group size: 20 per session

Have you ever dreamed of capturing the timeless magic of black & white film? Now’s your chance! Join Dani for an exhilarating journey into the world of film photography. From the moment you load your camera to the thrilling click of the shutter, Dani will guide you every step of the way. You’ll master the art of shooting with film, discovering techniques that bring your creative vision to life. But the adventure doesn’t stop there – you’ll also learn the fascinating process of developing your own negatives. Imagine the excitement as you watch your images emerge, transforming from mere exposures into stunning black & white masterpieces. This hands-on experience is perfect for anyone eager to delve into the fundamentals of film photography. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, Dani’s expert guidance will inspire and empower you. Don’t miss this opportunity to unlock the secrets of shooting and developing black & white film!

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Loading a film camera
2. Sooting film
3. How to process B&W film

Illuminated Bodies: Creative Nude

with Kym Vulling

  • Genre: Fine Art Portrait Photography
  • Location: Wandi Hall (10min drive from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Self Drive
  • Length: 1.5hr
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Indoor, mostly sedentary
  • Group size: 20 per session
Join award-winning photographer Kym Vulling for this playful and hands-on workshop. With over 20 years in the industry, Kym will guide you through an exciting world of light and projection to create vibrant, dynamic portraits of the human form. This workshop is all about experimenting and having fun—layering colors, shapes, and light to transform the nude body into a canvas of artistic expression. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just looking for a fresh creative challenge, come ready to explore, experiment, and enjoy the process of making your images come alive with light and color. Male and Female model, some portraits/depictions of gentle intimacy and connection likely.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Working with nudity or intimacy – consent/ respect / things to consider.
2. Posing Working with color theory and projected image/ led lights
3. Long shutter ( bring a tripod if you want to experiment with this)

Let's Frame the Town!

with Vicki Bell

  • Genre: Composition in Photography
  • Location: Walk departing BFOP HQ
  • Transport: Walk
  • Length: 2hrs
  • Skill level: Beginner, Enthusiasts
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Walking around town
  • Group size: 20 per session
Join us as we reimagine the ordinary, by embarking on a visual adventure around the Bright Township applying key Photographic design elements and principles. Explore how composition, subject, colour, design, and lighting can combine to create interesting narratives. With an eye for abstracting elements, you will sharpen your camera and lighting skills while exercising your creative mind. Get ready to unlock your curiosity and see the world with fresh eyes!

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Learning the design principles and elements
2. Refining camera craft and applications
3. Creative gymnastics

Finding a Place for space

with Adam Edwards

  • Genre: Landscape Photography
  • Location: Cresta Valley, Mt Buffalo (60min drive from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Self Drive
  • Length: 2hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Medium walk, uneven surfaces
  • Group size: 20 per session
Ever find yourself struggling to balance all the elements in your shots, like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole? Enter “Finding a Place for the Space” – a workshop dedicated to the art of positive and negative space. We’ll dive into how to strategically place space in your compositions to make your photos sing. Whether you’re a budding photographer or snapping for years, this workshop will help you turn chaotic scenes into harmonious masterpieces.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Mastering Space Balance: Learn how to balance positive and negative space in your compositions. We will explore using space effectively to highlight your main subject and create a sense of harmony.
2. Enhancing Visual Flow: Discover techniques to guide the viewer’s eye through your image, using space to create a natural visual flow that keeps your audience engaged.
3. Deciphering Busy Compositions: Gain confidence in tackling busy scenes! We will practice finding the perfect place for space in crowded environments, turning clutter into clarity.

A portrait of vulnerabilty

with Jesse Hisco

  • Genre: Portrait Photography
  • Location: TBA
  • Transport: TBA
  • Length: 1.5hrs
  • Skill level: Enthusiasts, Advanced
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level:
  • Group size: 20 per session
During this workshop I’m going to be sharing some of my all time favourite techniques to creating truly authentic and engaging portraits of absolutely anyone.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Setting the Tone – How to build trust and creating a welcoming and judgment free space
2. Empowering your Subjects – How to direct your subjects for authentic emotion
3. How to direct couples for organic and authentic interactions.

Flipping studio lighting on its head

with Michael Marlborough

  • Genre: Fine Art Portrait Photography
  • Location: Wandi Hall (10min drive from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Self Drive
  • Length: 1.5hr
  • Skill level: Enthusiast, Advanced
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Indoor, mostly sedentary
  • Group size: 20 per session
Welcome to the most electrifying photography workshop of your life! No nudity here, but we guarantee plenty of laughs and lightbulb moments (pun absolutely intended). In this zany adventure, we’ll be working with strobe lights and modifiers to sculpt the human figure like never before. Think of it as light yoga for your camera—stretching and bending photons to capture the perfect shot! Our supermodel muses will keep their clothes on (thank you very much), but our creativity will be totally unbuttoned. Once we’ve snapped our masterpieces, it’s off to Photoshop, where the real hocus-pocus happens. We’ll flip, twist, and massage our images into mind-boggling works of art that will have your friends asking, “Did you get abducted by artistic aliens?” So grab your camera, bring your sense of humor, and join us for a workshop that promises more fun than a barrel of studio lights!

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Mastering Studio Lighting
2. Creative Composition and Posing
3. Advanced Photoshop Editing Skills

The Intimate Portrait Society: A Beginner's Workshop

with Anne Scott-Virtue

  • Genre: Portrait Photography
  • Location: Walk departing BFOP HQ
  • Transport: Walk
  • Length: 2hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Short to medium walk on formed track and path
  • Group size: 20 per session
Join me for a unique and immersive experience designed to teach you the art of capturing intimate portraits. This workshop focuses on making your subjects feel comfortable and natural in front of the camera, building rapport with couples, and evoking genuine emotions in wedding photos. Through hands-on exercises and expert guidance, you’ll learn techniques to create beautiful, heartfelt images that tell a story and capture the essence of your subjects. This workshop is designed for beginners and will equip you with the tools and confidence to embark on your journey in mastering intimate portraiture. While basic camera knowledge is desirable, it is not essential.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Buidling connection with your subject.
2. Evoking genuine emotions in wedding photos.
3. Mastering intimate portraiture.

All things photo comps!

with Harriet Tarbuck

  • Genre: Photography Competitions
  • Location: Senior Citizens Centre (200m from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Walk
  • Length: 1.5hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Sedentary
  • Group size: 20 per session
In this workshop we we will be learning the ins and outs of photo competition, specifically the ones we run at Photo Collective, and how you can put your best foot forward in other award programs too. We will delve into what they are looking for and how to critique our own work to select the best images to enter. Photography critique can open our eyes to seeing our work in new ways and take us down a whole new road in image making. We will share some ‘behind the scenes’ knowledge on our judging systems at Photo Collective and then we will do our own mock judging session! This should be lots of fun and will give you some real insight on what it is like to judge an award.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Image selection
2. Critique
3. Learning to analyse an image

Posing without posing

with Joel Alston

  • Genre: Portrait Photography
  • Location: Centenary Park (800m from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Walk
  • Length: 1.5hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: Camera, lens
  • Fitness level: Short to medium walk
  • Group size: 20 per session
Photographing with people is so fun and creative… But how are we able to create a scene where we can get comfortable candids? In this workshop I will walk you through my process of how to find a good location, find good light, how to capture it technically well and create a space for candid images to appear. I will demonstrate some exercises and techniques, then we will photograph each other within the class on location and I will be floating around to offer advice and help when needed. You will walk away with creative, candid portraits for your portfolio or genuine human beings, not models. Plus not to mention you will probably get some banging portrait of you for your next Instagram profile pic.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. Good understanding of finding good light and backdrop for a portrait
2. Skills on how to create a comfortable environment for your model
3. Find moments within moments and how to capture them subtly.playfulness to your craft. Stop being so serious!

Using line, shape and pattern to form your compositions

with Jeff Freestone

  • Genre: Intimate Landscape Photography
  • Location: Chalet, Mt Buffalo (50min drive from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Self Drive
  • Length: 2hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Medium walk, uneven surfaces
  • Group size: 20 per session
Develop an eye to discover new and unique compositions in nature.
Learning to see and find your own compositions will provide you with a more rewarding and productive way of photographing.
Learn to see nature in a more ‘abstract’ sense rather than seeing literal objects. Identify the conceptual qualities found in nature such as line, shape and form to use as the foundation for constructing pleasing and compelling compositions.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. How to develop an eye for finding new and unique compositions in nature
2. Important considerations when framing up your composition.
3. The importance of light

Great Portraits in Shit Locations

with Glynn Lavender

  • Genre: Portrait Photography
  • Location: Walk leaving BFOP HQ
  • Transport: Walk
  • Length: 2hr
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level:
  • Group size: 20 per session
One of the biggest pressures we put on ourselves as portrait photographers is location, location, location. Come along on this fabulous walk of downtown Bright and learn how just about anywhere can be a great location for a portrait shoot. A lot of the learning in this session is about how lenses SEE so please bring all the lenses you have.

What are the learnings people can expect?
1. To see the world in a whole new way (promise)
2. To learn how to take great portraits anywhere
3. To gain a true understanding of how portrait photographers use lenses.

Portaits with Leadlight Glass

with Craig Wetjen

  • Genre: Environmental Portrait Photography
  • Location: Harrietville (25min drive from BFOP HQ)
  • Transport: Self Drive
  • Length: 2.5hrs
  • Skill level: All
  • Equipment: TBA
  • Fitness level: Short walk, mostly sedentary