THE GREAT OTWAYS MASTERCLASS

Escape into nature’s heart with our immersive one-day masterclass on nature, waterfalls, and landscape photography, situated in the breathtaking beauty of The Great Otway National Park, Victoria. Designed for photographers of all skill levels, from beginners eager to develop their craft to seasoned professionals looking for fresh inspiration in the wonders of nature.

The Great Otway National Park is a photographer's sanctuary, offering a rich mosaic of lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and expansive landscapes. Our experienced instructors will lead you on a journey through the art of capturing the essence of this diverse natural environment. You will learn to photograph the enchanting beauty of the park's towering ferns, the serene majesty of its ancient trees, and the dynamic flow of its stunning waterfalls. You will gain proficiency in essential photographic techniques such as composition, exposure, and the use of natural light, empowering you to capture the park's varied atmospheres.

Join us at CapturEDU for a day of exploration, learning, and artistic expression in The Great Otway National Park. This masterclass presents an exclusive opportunity to delve into the realms of nature, waterfalls, and landscape photography within one of Australia's most captivating settings. Whether you're aiming to document the ethereal beauty of Hopetoun Falls, the intimacy of Beauchamp Falls, or the serene landscapes that stretch across the region, you'll leave not only with a collection of breathtaking photographs but also with the skills and insights to enhance your photographic journey.

Embrace this chance to view The Great Otway National Park through your lens in a new and profound way, capturing its essence in a manner that truly reflects your individual photographic voice.

  • Location

    Beech Forest, VIC

  • Duration

    Full Day

  • Cost

    $575.00

  • Fitness Level

    Moderate

  • Group Size

    Maximum 8 Guests

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MASTERCLASS HIGHLIGHTS

Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of The Great Otways with our one-day photography masterclass, focusing on the essential techniques and creative insights needed for capturing nature, waterfalls, landscapes, and mastering long exposure. Here are the top five highlights and techniques you will explore:

  1. Landscape Photography in the Otways - The diverse terrain of The Great Otways National Park provides a perfect classroom for landscape photography. You'll learn how to frame vast, panoramic views as well as isolate specific elements within the landscape that tell a story or evoke a mood. Techniques will include understanding the golden hour's impact on natural landscapes, using natural lines for composition, and choosing the right equipment to capture the essence of the Otways' landscapes.

  2. Waterfall Photography with Long Exposure - Waterfalls are among The Great Otways' most enchanting features. We'll dive into the techniques of long exposure photography to capture the silky smooth flow of water, creating ethereal and captivating images. You'll learn about the necessary camera settings, the importance of using a tripod, and how to calculate exposure times to achieve the desired effect without overexposing the surrounding landscape.

  3. Capturing the Flora and Fauna - The Great Otways is home to a rich variety of plant and animal life. This segment of the masterclass will focus on macro and close-up photography techniques that bring out the intricate details and textures of the Otways' flora and fauna. Tips on approaching wildlife respectfully and safely, using natural light to your advantage, and selecting the right lenses will be covered.

  4. Composition Mastery in Nature Photography - Composition is key to creating visually appealing and engaging photographs. We'll cover fundamental principles such as the rule of thirds, leading lines, and framing within a natural setting. You'll learn to apply these principles thoughtfully to enhance the visual impact of your nature photography, creating balanced and intriguing shots that draw the viewer into the scene.

  5. Exploring Iconic Landscapes and Scenes - The Great Otways offers a plethora of iconic scenes, from the rugged coastlines to serene rainforest walks. This part of the masterclass will guide you in identifying and capturing these iconic landscapes, teaching you how to scout locations, work with different lighting conditions throughout the day, and employ creative compositions to convey the unique beauty and atmosphere of The Great Otways.

Join us for a day filled with discovery, learning, and creative expression in one of Victoria's most picturesque settings. This masterclass will not only enhance your photographic skills but also deepen your appreciation for the natural beauty and diversity of The Great Otways.

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GALLERY

MASTERCLASS PLAN

Embarking on a photographic journey through Great Otway National Park begins with a warm welcome in the charming city of Geelong. Our friendly and expert guide, a passionate professional landscape photographer deeply enamoured with the park's natural beauty, greets the participants. After a brief introduction to ensure everyone's camera gear is ready, the group sets out on an adventure to capture some of Australia's most stunning landscapes.

The first destination on our itinerary is the mesmerising Hoptoun Falls, where participants will learn how to capture moving water by experimenting with different shutter speeds. Your personalised composition tips teach how to use the forest's natural lines and shapes to guide the viewer’s eye through the photograph.

As the morning session draws to a close, we gather for a delightful picnic lunch amidst the lush greenery of the Otways. This informal setting provides an excellent opportunity for participants to share their experiences and discuss techniques, enriching the experience with insights into its ecological and cultural significance.

In the afternoon, we venture into the serene California Redwood Forest, where participants learn how to adjust their settings for low-light conditions and capture the grandeur of these ancient giants. This part of the day is perfect for exploring perspectives and scale in photography.

Next on our journey is Beauchamp Falls, where the focus shifts to creating compelling compositions in more intimate settings. Our guide assists participants in navigating the challenges of mixed lighting conditions, emphasising the use of natural frames and the importance of patience in waiting for the perfect moment to capture. For those with an interest in the details, there are also plenty of fungi to capture along the way.

If time permits (optional), our final photographic destination will be chosen based on time and conditions. Participants will be able to apply all the lessons learned throughout the day. Under the guidance of our experts, experimentation with different viewpoints and emphasising storytelling through landscape photography is encouraged in photogenic settings.

As the sun sets, we return to Geelong, reflecting on the day's experiences and sharing the captures. This journey is not just a return to the starting point but a time for reflection and feedback. Our guides discuss ways to continue growing as photographers, ensuring that each participant leaves the masterclass not only with unforgettable memories and stunning photographs but also with a deeper appreciation for nature and the art of photography. This masterclass is designed to guide participants through photographing the diverse landscapes of the Great Otway National Park, deepening their photographic skills and their appreciation for the natural world.

Details:

  • All skill levels are welcome. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, the tour is designed to cover all aspects of image capture that apply to your current photography journey.

    The best way to learn photography is by taking photos, so we will be by your side, sharing insights and guidance as you shoot.

    No matter your skill level or equipment, you’ll learn.

    Equipment: We can help you optimise the equipment you choose to use, from compact cameras to digital SLR cameras. Please let us know in advance if you would like to discuss what equipment to bring to the trip.

  • Moderate: Some easy-pace walking is required at various locations.

    • Compact, DSLR, Mirrorless Camera

    • Standard zoom, wide angle and telephoto lens

    • Tripod

    • Spare SD cards and batteries

    • Polarising filter and ND filters

    • Old cotton t-shirt, lens cloths, hand towel

    • Suitable clothing for all wet and dry weather conditions. We recommend comfortable clothing made of fabric that breaths (such as cotton) and packs a combination of short-sleeved and long-sleeved tops and pant options.

    • Hat, Sun block and sun glasses (protection against UV)

    • Water bottle

    • Sturdy, Comfortable Walking Shoes

    • Transportation from the meeting point.

    • Professional photographic tuition

    • Lunch is included on the masterclass.

    • Group discussions

    • CapturEDU Handbook

    • Travel to and from the meeting point.

    • Snacks throughout the workshop.

    • Travel insurance: please ensure your camera gear is insured under your home and contents policy, or you have private independent camera equipment insurance.