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
Learn More
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
Learn More
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
Learn More
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
Learn More

Why Choose OzShutter Academy?

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

Graduation cap icon representing expert instructors

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.

Hands holding a camera icon representing practical learning

Hands-On Learning

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

Small group of people icon representing small class sizes

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.

Map location pin icon representing prime location

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.

LinkedIn
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.

Instagram

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