Unlock Your Photographic Potential
Step into the captivating world of photography with Oz Optics Academy, Sydney's premier destination for learning the art and science of the camera. Whether you're just starting out with your first DSLR or mirrorless camera, or you're looking to master advanced techniques and build a professional portfolio, our expert-led courses and practical workshops provide the skills and inspiration you need. Join our supportive community and transform the way you see and capture the world.
Explore CoursesLearn Photography from Passionate Experts in Sydney
Welcome to Oz Optics Academy, born from a shared passion for visual storytelling and a desire to cultivate photographic talent right here in Sydney. We believe that within everyone lies a unique creative perspective, a distinct way of seeing the world that deserves to be expressed. Our core mission is to unlock that potential by providing exceptional, accessible, and inspiring photography education. We're not just teaching buttons and dials; we're fostering a deeper understanding of light, composition, and the power of an image.
Our journey began when a group of professional Sydney photographers, recognised for their work in fields spanning from stunning landscapes of the Blue Mountains to dynamic urban scenes, realised the need for a learning space that blended technical mastery with genuine artistic development. We observed that many aspiring photographers felt intimidated by complex gear or overwhelmed by technical jargon. We wanted to create an environment that was welcoming, supportive, and focused on practical, hands-on learning.
At Oz Optics Academy, our philosophy centres on 'learning by doing'. We intentionally keep our workshop groups small, ensuring every student receives personalised guidance and constructive feedback tailored to their individual goals and skill level. Whether you're navigating the basics of your camera in our introductory courses, delving into the nuances of manual mode, or exploring advanced topics like off-camera flash and professional retouching, our experienced instructors are dedicated to your growth. We pride ourselves on demystifying complex concepts and making photography enjoyable and rewarding from day one. Our curriculum is constantly refined, incorporating the latest camera technologies and industry trends, ensuring you learn relevant, up-to-date skills. We also emphasize ethical photography practices and encourage students to develop their own unique visual style. Join us and discover not just how to take a photograph, but how to create one.
- Engaging, hands-on workshops and practical photo walks in iconic Sydney locations.
- Comprehensive courses covering everything from absolute beginner to advanced professional levels.
- Instruction delivered by seasoned, award-winning professional photographers with extensive teaching experience.
- A friendly, encouraging, and collaborative learning atmosphere designed for creative growth.
- Flexible learning options including intensive workshops, ongoing courses, and online resources.
- Conveniently located facilities in Sydney, easily accessible for all students.
Our Photography Programs
DSLR & Mirrorless Basics
Feeling overwhelmed by your new camera? This foundational course demystifies essential camera functions, autofocus modes, lens choices, and fundamental composition rules. Move beyond auto mode and start taking intentionally crafted photos with confidence. Perfect for absolute beginners.
Mastering Manual Mode
Unlock complete creative control over your images. This essential course dives deep into the exposure triangle: ISO, aperture, and shutter speed. Understand how they interact and learn to make deliberate exposure decisions for perfectly lit shots in any condition. Ideal for those comfortable with basics but ready for more.
Advanced Photography
Ready to elevate your photography? Explore advanced concepts including off-camera flash, studio lighting setups, sophisticated composition, long exposure techniques, and genre-specific skills like portraiture, landscape, or macro photography. Push your creative boundaries.
Online Courses
Learn photography from anywhere, anytime. Our comprehensive online courses offer high-quality video lessons, downloadable resources, practical assignments, and access to instructor feedback. Perfect for flexible learning at your own pace.
Sydney Workshops
Immerse yourself in practical learning with our hands-on workshops held in inspiring Sydney locations, from urban landscapes to coastal scenes. Apply techniques immediately with expert guidance. Check our schedule for upcoming beginner and themed workshops.
Photography Tours
Combine travel and photography on our curated tours. Explore stunning destinations near Sydney and beyond, guided by expert photographers who help you capture unforgettable images while refining your skills in diverse environments.
Join Our Next Workshop
Beginner's Guide to Night Photography
Date: October 26, 2024 | Location: Sydney Observatory Hill | Level: Beginner
Discover the magic of capturing the city lights after dark. Learn the essentials of long exposures, managing noise, focusing in low light, and creative compositions for stunning nightscapes.
Portrait Photography Fundamentals
Date: November 9, 2024 | Location: Oz Optics Academy Studio | Level: Beginner-Intermediate
Learn to capture compelling portraits. This workshop covers natural and basic studio lighting techniques, posing guidance, lens selection, and how to connect with your subject for authentic expressions.
Landscape Photography Masterclass
Date: November 23, 2024 | Location: Blue Mountains Day Trip | Level: Intermediate-Advanced
Capture the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Mountains. This masterclass focuses on advanced landscape techniques, including filter usage (ND, CPL), composition for impact, finding the best light, and capturing panoramic vistas.
More workshops covering various genres and skill levels are added regularly. Contact us to inquire about specific topics or future dates!
Develop Your Skills with Confidence
Expert Instructors
Gain insights from professional photographers who bring years of diverse, real-world shooting experience and a genuine passion for teaching to every class.
Hands-On Learning
Our courses prioritize practical application. Through guided exercises, photo walks, and constructive critiques, you'll learn by doing, not just listening.
Small Group Sizes
Benefit from personalized attention and ample opportunity for questions and feedback in our intimate class settings, ensuring no student gets left behind.
Flexible Options
Choose the learning style that suits you best, from intensive in-person workshops in Sydney to comprehensive online courses you can take at your own pace.
Convenient Sydney Locations
Our studio and workshop meeting points are situated in easily accessible parts of Sydney, making your learning journey convenient.
Supportive Community
Join a network of fellow photography enthusiasts. Share your work, ask questions, and grow together in a positive and encouraging environment.
Learn from the Best
Chloe Miller
Lead Instructor & Founder
Chloe is an award-winning landscape and travel photographer whose work has been featured internationally. With over 15 years of experience, she founded Oz Optics Academy to share her deep passion for capturing the beauty of the natural world and empower others through clear, inspiring instruction.
Ben Carter
Senior Instructor
Ben specialises in dynamic street photography and advanced digital post-processing techniques. He loves the challenge of capturing candid moments and excels at teaching students how to harness software like Lightroom and Photoshop to bring their creative vision to life.
Aisha Khan
Workshop Coordinator & Instructor
Aisha is passionate about making photography accessible to everyone. She leads many of our beginner workshops, focusing on building a strong technical foundation and fostering a welcoming, non-intimidating learning environment. She also expertly coordinates our workshop logistics.
See What You Can Create
What Our Students Say
"The DSLR Basics course with Chloe was absolutely brilliant! I went from being totally confused by my camera to actually understanding the settings. My photos look so much better already. Highly recommend for any beginner!"
Liam Wilson
Beginner Workshop Student
"Oz Optics Academy gave me the confidence to finally shoot in manual mode. Ben's advanced techniques workshop really pushed my creative thinking and technical skills. The small group size meant lots of personal feedback."
Olivia Nguyen
Advanced Techniques Workshop
"I took the online 'Mastering Manual Mode' course and loved the flexibility. The video lessons were clear, engaging, and easy to follow. Aisha was super helpful answering questions via email. Great value!"
Noah Campbell
Online Course Student
"The Night Photography workshop was fantastic! Learned so much about long exposures and capturing the city lights. The location at Observatory Hill was perfect. Can't wait to join another workshop."
Isla Patel
Night Photography Workshop
"As someone looking to improve my portrait skills, the fundamentals workshop was invaluable. Covered lighting and posing in a really practical way. The instructors are knowledgeable and approachable."
William Davis
Portrait Fundamentals Workshop
"Just completed the Blue Mountains landscape masterclass – wow! Chloe's tips on using filters and finding compositions were game-changing. A truly inspiring day and my photos have never looked better."
Mia Thompson
Landscape Masterclass Student
Start Your Photography Journey
Ready to take the next step in your photography? Whether you have questions about a specific course, want to inquire about upcoming workshops, or are ready to enroll, we'd love to hear from you. Reach out using the details below or fill in the form, and our friendly team will get back to you shortly. Let's create something amazing together!
42 Banksia Street, Suite 201, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia
