Creative Self Portrait Photography Course

A creative course exploring expressive self-portraiture through shooting and editing.

📍 Reservoir, Vic, Australia 🗓️ Days vary 🕰️ 2hrs &15mins x2 Sessions 🎟️ $90-$95 AUD pp

Go beyond the classic selfie and learn how to create expressive, meaningful self-portraits that tell a story.In this two-session hands-on workshop, you’ll explore the full creative process — from developing a concept and shooting your images to refining them with professional editing techniques. Whether you’re using your phone or trying a DSLR for the first time, you’ll gain both technical confidence and creative direction. You’ll also have the opportunity to shoot using a professional Nikon or Canon DSLR against a studio backdrop, gaining experience with high-quality equipment and ring lighting.

Session 1: Concept & ShootingWe begin by exploring self-portraiture as an expressive art form. You’ll learn how to develop a personal concept using mood boards, symbolism, colour themes, and intentional composition.You’ll be guided through exposure basics, lighting approaches, and practical shooting techniques using either your phone or a DSLR. During the session, you’ll create a series of self-portraits and rotate through a professional studio setup to capture high-quality images.

Session 2: Editing & RefinementIn the second session, you’ll select 1–3 images to refine and learn a clear editing workflow.We’ll cover colour correction, tonal adjustments, creative colour grading, gentle retouching, and final export settings for web or print.

With guided support and one-on-one assistance, you’ll transform your chosen images into polished final works.We’ll close with an optional showcase and reflection on your creative process. Perfect for beginners, creatives, and anyone wanting to explore photography beyond the everyday selfie.

    • A deeper understanding of conceptual self-portraiture

    • Practical lighting and camera skillsProfessional editing techniques

    • High-quality finished self-portraitsGreater creative confidence

    • Sketchpaper, pencil and pen

    • Information sheets

    • Hands-on guidance from an experienced artist and photographer throughout both sessions

    • Access to a professional Nikon or Canon DSLR for studio-quality portraits

    • Individual shooting time against a professional studio backdrop

    • A set of high-resolution self-portrait images captured during the workshop

    • Personalised feedback on concept, composition, posing, and technical execution

    • A step-by-step introduction to editing, from basic corrections to creative enhancements

    • One-on-one support during an extended post-production session

    • A refined selection of fully edited final images to take home (ideal for printed or digital portfolio use)

    • A supportive, inclusive environment with creative prompts and structured activities

    • Guidance on printing, presenting, or sharing images after the workshop

    • Understanding of the English language (Deaf students may bring a sign language interpreter if needed).

    • How to work a computer, iPad/tablet, or phone.

    • The more knowledge of the camera you have, the better, so we recommend familiarising yourself with your chosen camera before the session.

    • Must be between 15-90 years old.

    Please note: Due to the leader of the workshop being hard of hearing (hearing aids), translators who need to speak during lecture sessions are not permitted to allow the workshop leader to communicate effectively with minimal background noise. Therefore, any individual who cannot speak/understand English, this course is not for you.

  • Must Bring:

    • Any digital camera of your choosing (phone camera, DSLR, etc.)

    • Device to edit on (phone, laptop, MacBook, iPad, etc.)

    • A subscription to photoshop/creative cloud (free trial is available-do not sign up for the trial until session two!) OR you can follow along in Photopea.

    Optional/recommended:

    • Writing and drawing tools (Please note that a basic notebook and pen will be provided but you are more than welcome to bring your own).

    • Sketchbook (Sketch paper will be provided but you are more than welcome to bring your own.

    • Your own refreshments (No alcohol permitted)

    • Suitable for adults, and kids (minimum 16 years old).

    • Adult accompaniment is not required.

    • Suitable for teens, young adults, mature-age learners, and emerging or intermediate artists .

  • If you enjoyed your experience, I would truly appreciate a five-star review, as it helps support my small creative business and future workshops. If you have any concerns or feedback, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly before leaving a review — I’m always happy to help and ensure you have the best possible experience.

  • Customers can cancel/reschedule up to ten days before the date of the workshop. After ten days no cancellation or rescheduling is permitted and no refund will be given.