Scenic view of Melbourne skyline captured through a camera lens

Unlock Your Photographic Potential in Melbourne

Join OzShutter Academy for expert-led photography courses, workshops, and personalized coaching designed to elevate your craft.

Explore Our Courses

About OzShutter Academy

Welcome to OzShutter Academy, Melbourne's premier destination for passionate photographers seeking to hone their skills and unleash their creative vision. Founded on the belief that everyone possesses a unique perspective waiting to be captured, our academy has grown from a small collective of photography enthusiasts into a thriving educational hub nestled in the vibrant heart of Flinders Lane. We are deeply rooted in the Melbourne arts scene, drawing inspiration from the city's dynamic culture, stunning architecture, and the breathtaking landscapes that surround Victoria.

Our mission is simple yet profound: to empower aspiring and experienced photographers with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to capture stunning images and develop their unique creative voice. We believe photography is more than just technical proficiency; it's about storytelling, emotion, and connection. Therefore, our curriculum blends rigorous technical training with artistic development, encouraging students to experiment, explore, and find their individual style. We foster a supportive and collaborative learning environment where curiosity is celebrated, and mistakes are seen as stepping stones to mastery.

What truly sets OzShutter Academy apart is our commitment to practical, hands-on learning led by industry professionals who are not just teachers, but active, award-winning photographers. Our small class sizes ensure personalized attention, allowing instructors to provide tailored feedback and mentorship. We value community, creativity, technical excellence, and a lifelong passion for learning. Whether you're picking up a camera for the first time or looking to specialise in a particular genre, we offer a diverse range of courses designed to meet you where you are and take you where you want to go. Join us and discover the difference that expert guidance and a supportive community can make to your photographic journey. Experience the art of seeing the world differently, right here in Melbourne.

Inside the OzShutter Academy classroom with students engaging in a lesson

Our Photography Courses & Workshops

Find the perfect course to elevate your photography skills, from mastering beginner basics to exploring advanced specialised techniques.

Student adjusting DSLR camera settings during a practical session

Beginner's DSLR Photography

Perfect for new camera owners! This comprehensive course covers everything from understanding aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, to mastering composition rules and basic editing. Learn to move beyond auto mode and take control of your creativity. Gain confidence through practical exercises and supportive feedback.

Duration: 6 Weeks Level: Beginner
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Photographer capturing a dramatic sunrise landscape with tripod

Advanced Landscape Photography

Capture the breathtaking beauty of nature. This intensive workshop focuses on advanced techniques like long exposures, using filters (ND, polarisers), panoramic stitching, and finding compelling compositions in varied environments. Includes field trips to iconic Victorian locations (weather permitting).

Duration: Weekend Workshop Level: Intermediate/Advanced
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Model posing under professional studio lights during a portrait workshop

Portrait & Studio Lighting

Master the art of portraiture. Learn essential posing techniques, understand different lighting modifiers (softboxes, umbrellas, reflectors), and create various lighting setups (Rembrandt, loop, butterfly) in our fully equipped studio. Build a professional portrait portfolio.

Duration: 4 Weeks Level: Intermediate
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Computer screen showing Adobe Lightroom editing interface with colourful photos

Online Lightroom Masterclass

Transform your photos from good to great with Adobe Lightroom Classic. This comprehensive online course covers everything from importing and organising your library to advanced editing techniques, local adjustments, presets, and exporting for web or print. Learn at your own pace.

Duration: Self-paced Level: All Levels
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Why Choose OzShutter Academy?

Discover the advantages of learning with Melbourne's leading photography educators.

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Expert Instructors

Learn from passionate, award-winning professional photographers who bring years of real-world industry experience and a dedication to teaching into the classroom.

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Hands-On Learning

Our courses emphasize practical application. Participate in engaging workshops, real-world photo shoots, and constructive critiques to solidify your skills.

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Small Class Sizes

Benefit from personalized attention and tailored feedback. Our intimate learning environment (typically 6-10 students) ensures you get the support you need.

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Prime Melbourne Location

Our modern academy is conveniently situated on Flinders Lane in Melbourne's CBD, easily accessible by public transport and surrounded by photographic inspiration.

Meet Our Expert Instructors

Get inspired by our team of professional photographers dedicated to your growth.

Headshot of instructor Jane Appleseed

Jane Appleseed

Lead Instructor & Landscape Specialist

Jane is an acclaimed landscape photographer whose work beautifully captures the rugged coastlines and vast interiors of Australia. With over 15 years of professional experience and numerous exhibitions, her passion lies in teaching others how to see and interpret the light, atmosphere, and grandeur of the natural world. Jane's teaching style is patient, encouraging, and focused on developing both technical mastery and a strong artistic eye.

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Headshot of instructor David Chen

David Chen

Portrait & Studio Lighting Expert

David is a highly sought-after portrait and commercial photographer known for his mastery of light and ability to capture compelling human expressions. His editorial work has graced the pages of major Australian magazines. David brings a wealth of practical studio knowledge to his workshops, breaking down complex lighting setups into understandable steps. He thrives on helping students gain the technical skills and confidence to create impactful portraits.

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What Our Students Say

Hear directly from photographers who have experienced the OzShutter difference.

"The Beginner's DSLR course completely demystified my camera! Jane was incredibly patient and explained everything so clearly. I finally feel confident shooting in manual mode. Highly recommended for anyone starting out!"

Sarah K.

Beginner's DSLR Photography

"OzShutter Academy helped me take my landscape photography to the next level. The weekend workshop was intense but incredibly rewarding. The practical tips and location shoots were invaluable. Worth every cent."

Michael T.

Advanced Landscape Workshop

"I learned so much about studio lighting! David is an amazing teacher, explaining complex concepts easily. The small class size meant lots of personal feedback. My portraiture has improved dramatically."

Chloe W.

Portrait & Studio Lighting

"The online Lightroom course was fantastic. Really well-structured and easy to follow at my own pace. I feel much more organised and capable with my photo editing now. Great value!"

Lachlan P.

Online Lightroom Masterclass

"As someone moving from hobbyist to more serious photography, OzShutter was perfect. The instructors are true professionals who genuinely care about your progress. The community vibe is great too."

Olivia R.

Multiple Workshops

"Excellent facilities and a really inspiring atmosphere. The location on Flinders Lane is super convenient. I've done two courses here and plan to do more!"

Noah B.

Beginner & Intermediate Courses

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common queries about our photography courses.

Do I need my own camera to join a course?
Yes, for most of our courses, especially the DSLR and mirrorless focused ones, you will need your own camera with manual controls (aperture, shutter speed, ISO). This ensures you learn on the equipment you'll be using regularly. We can provide recommendations on suitable camera models if you're looking to purchase one. Some introductory workshops might have limited cameras available for hire – please check the specific course details or contact us to confirm availability beforehand.
What skill level are the courses designed for?
We cater to a wide range of photographers! We offer courses specifically designed for absolute beginners with no prior experience, intermediate photographers looking to refine specific skills, and advanced workshops for those wanting to delve into specialised genres like landscape or studio portraiture. Each course description on our website clearly indicates the recommended prerequisite knowledge or skill level to ensure you choose the right fit for your journey.
Where are the workshops held?
Our main classroom sessions, studio-based workshops (like Portrait & Lighting), and editing classes are held at our modern, well-equipped academy located centrally at 15 Flinders Lane, Suite 201, Melbourne CBD. For courses involving practical outdoor sessions, such as landscape or street photography workshops, we utilise various inspiring locations around Melbourne and occasionally further afield in Victoria. Specific location details are always provided upon enrolment.
What is the typical class size?
We strongly believe in the value of personalised instruction and interaction. To ensure every student receives ample attention, guidance, and opportunities to ask questions, we deliberately keep our class sizes small. Typically, our courses have between 6 to 10 students per instructor. This intimate setting fosters a supportive learning environment and allows for meaningful feedback.
What should I bring to my first class?
Generally, you should bring your camera (DSLR or mirrorless preferred for most courses), a fully charged battery, an empty memory card, and the camera's manual if you have it. A notebook and pen for taking notes is also highly recommended. Specific courses might have additional requirements (like tripods for landscape or laptops for editing courses), which will be clearly communicated in the course confirmation email sent prior to the start date.

Get In Touch

Have questions about our courses, instructors, or ready to enrol? Reach out to us – we're happy to help you start your photography journey!

Address:
15 Flinders Lane, Suite 201, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia

Phone:
+61 3 9654 7890

Email:
info@

Business Hours:
Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Our Location

Map showing general location in Melbourne.