Learn Photography at Bluedog Photographic Courses, Workshops and Tuition
Photography |
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Photography
- The Art of Drawing with Light! |
![]() Learning Photography Hands On |
![]() A Bluedog Photography Workshop |
![]() Wedding Photography Workshop |
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One-on-One
Classes and Groups
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Photography and Writing Courses, Workshops, Retreat and Tours Calendar
Please refer to further dates for workshops set below in future months Courses and workshops are regularly updated on this web page. The Bluedog Team of professional photographers and journalists have a wealth of knowledge to share and have taught various aspects of their subjects throughout Australia. You may be a good photographer or writer but that does not mean you can teach. We all continue to work as professional photographers and journalists and have the confidence and patience to take you on exciting paths with your work. Participant numbers are always kept low to ensure you get individual attention, the maximum benefit and all your questions are answered. Below is the calendar of planned workshops, retreats and tours. On the Blog |
What We Run At BluedogClick on a workshop to see further
Portraiture Using Natural Lighting Parents, Carers, Cameras & Bubs Real Estate and Property Photography Short Photography Courses Sunset & Star Trails Tamborine Mountain Weekend
NEW Cambodia Stradbroke Island Photography Tour NEW Outback Desert Photographic Odyssey Fraser Island Tour "A Favourite from the
The Maheno on Fraser Island |
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Beginner Workshops
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Beginner Photography One Day WorkshopWhat’s covered and What do I get?
Suitable for both digital SLR, point and shoots and film cameras. A SLR digital camera and tripod is available for hire at $25.00 to cover cleaning and maintenance. Times of Workshop: 9.00am-4.30pm Locations: Cost: How to Book and Pay:
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Short Photography CoursesInformative short photography courses with up to two professional photographers with a maximum of ten per workshop - some are smaller. These fun sessions are designed for all levels of photographers and cameras
(see explanation below with course prices). "Excellent presentations - simple and to the point. We really enjoyed this workshop, photography was so much fun and we now go out and use our camera with so much more confidence. Our images are fantastic! Thanks so much!" Mandy and Tim Brisbane and Gold Coast @ Dusk Sessions Intro to Macro Story Bridge Adventure Climb A four hour event, designed for photographers of all levels, allows extended periods along the climb to capture the many photographic opportunities. On the day of the climb your tutor and hand-picked Story Bridge Adventure Climb Leader will share further tips, discuss the challenges and opportunities this climb presents photographically. During and after the climb your tutor will provide you with feedback on your images on camera. FAQ’s: Q. I am not sure of my fitness? Q. I have a voucher can I use it? Price: You do not need to be an expert to attend! We will walk you through each stage, therefore Requirements: Camera and manual,
Lenses - if you have more than one bring it! Wide angles are especially fun. Early Morning Light @ Springbrook or Wellington Point Parents, Carers and Bubs |
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Intermediate Level 1This is about taking your art further and getting it right in camera! Workshop notes given to all participants.
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The Art of Portraiture PhotographyLearn the Art of Portraiture using Natural Lighting, Off Camera Flash and Studio Lighting. Light It, Shoot It, Process It! Day 2: Price: Be taught those important flash and studio lighting techniques. Understand light, light temperature and styles of lighting.
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An Introduction to Macro PhotographyOur intro to macro photography workshop consists of two parts:
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Brisbane - Gold Coast - Sunshine Coast @ DuskThese 2 hour sessions are designed for you to 'play' with a professional photographer refining your skills, improving your techniques and
receiving expert guidance while shooting under low light situations. We aim to give you helpful hints and advice on low light photography
while inspiring you creatively. Cost: $80.00
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What you need to bring: Cost: $195.00 inc GST |
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Morning Light @ Springbrook or Wellington Point
Join Tony Holden on this early morning shoot. Visit locations such as Canyon Lookout, Twin Falls and a secluded rainforest stream.
Learn about early morning landscape photography, filters and their use, and producing in camera images you will be proud of.
Participants MUST wear non-slip closed in shoes.
Easy level of fitness required.
Min 5 to run; max 8
Cost: $110.00
If you are interested in joining us and would like to reserve a place email info@blue-dog.com.au for forwarding of further details.
Landscape Photography Our landscape photography workshops are heavily incorporated in the Bluedog Photography Weekend Retreats, Tours, and our one-on-one sessions. Sessions will be designed to include learning about lighting, exposure and the effects of graduated and ND filters. We will be encouraging you to learn more about those ever important composition tools necessary for foreground, middle ground and back ground interest. Tamborine Mountain Weekend Retreat Bluedog-Kingfisher Bay Fraser Island Photography Tour |
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Rainforest creek at Springbrook. |
![]() Night Landscape Stradbroke Island Landscape Tour Image by Augustine |
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March 2012 |
More dates will be announced for |
You are into your photography and now you've been asked to do a friends or relatives wedding - what now?
This session will go through some of the basic tips and tricks, how to be organised and do the best for that special day.
We will also do a practical exercise so you get to understand simple modelling and lighting techniques with a bride.
A set of notes is given to all participants including our extensive shot list and contract outline. Cost: $355.00 |
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"The Wedding Photography Workshop was honestly
one of the best courses I have attended.
It was the perfect blend of theory, camera technique and practice. Really enjoyed having a model bride to practice
with under a variety of locations. I will definitely be recommending this course (and Blue Dog) to others.
The amount of information able to be delivered in one day, as well as all the helpful notes and handouts.
It's also great to see that there is follow up from Blue Dog after the courses with more information and advice available.
You can tell that the the inspiration behind Blue Dog is the love for photography and encouraging others to reach their full potential.
Look forward to the next course!" Paula
February 2012 Tuesday 28th Tamborine Mountain |
More dates will be announced for |
This is a very comprehensive workshop. We start here at the studio and watch a Power Point where we look at aspects of equipment, file formats, lighting, exposures, white balance, balancing flash and natural light, how to deal with each room, what to do and what not to do, marketing and a little on Photoshop such as how to straighten walls etc.
| After this we go to a cottage where you photograph the living room, glassed wall bathroom, BBQ area and exterior. A full set of workshop notes is provided for you to take home. After this workshop you should be equipped to go out and shoot real estate photography. We have many past participants doing just that! Morning and afternoon tea refreshments supplied. Cost: $355.00 Location: Tamborine Mountain from 9am-4pm Numbers will be limited and bookings are essential. To book: Ph 07 55454777 or email "Real Estate Photography" |
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Parents, Carers,
Cameras & Bubs
10.00am-12md
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These two hour sessions (9.30am-11.30am unless stated otherwise) are designed for you to bring your children
along and under the guidance of a professional photographer develop your photography.
aPlease note you are responsible for your children during the outing.
aBookings are essential
and the session must have minimum numbers to run.
aCost: $80.00 inc GST
aLimited numbers apply.
aTo book: Ph: 07 5545 4777 or e-mail "Cameras & Bubs"
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After a short session on lighting and exposure techniques our life model will join us for a 3 hour nude photography session.
Each session will incorporate different forms of lighting including natural, studio, flash and window. Each designed so you can set the same scenario up at home.
During the shoot you will obtain critical feedback and advice to master your photography.
Numbers are limited to 6 per session unless otherwise stated.
Pre requites include a sound understanding of aperture, shutter speed and ISO. Thisw is an advanced ligting and posing level of workshop so a basic camera control criteria is required. We are happy to talk with you by phone to make sure if you need.
Each participant is required to sign an agreement of understanding on posing and use of images from the shoot which we
are happy to send out before hand.
Workshop notes provided. Minimum numbers are needed for each session to run and places are limited. To book: Ph 07 55454777 or email "Human Form" |
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The full day Travel Workshop delivered by Danielle is in three parts: a short Power Point presentation on gear, techniques including using a polariser, how to photograph rainbows, lighting etc; constructive crit - each participant is asked to bring 5 images either on a CD in jpg. format or as hard copy prints; and practical excursion. We will also cover pitching to magazines and newspapers and pricing, copyright and other various associated topics to a degree if required.
The Bluedog Photography "Get to Know Your Camera" Sessions are 2 hours and designed for you to understand an aspect of your camera and an aspect of photography to further enhance you photography. The cost of these are $80.00/session.
Full Day Travel - Tamborine: $255.00
Get to Know Your Camera: $80.00
Numbers will be limited and bookings are essential.
To book: Ph 07 5545 4777 or email "Travel"
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February 2012 |
Story Bridge Tutored Climb Wednesday 15th
Twilight Shoot Meet at 4.15pm |
March 2012 |
Story Bridge Tutored Climb Wednesday 21st
Twilight Shoot Meet at 3.45pm |
April 2012 |
Story Bridge Tutored Climb Wednesday 18th
Twilight Shoot Meet at 3.30pm |
June 2012 |
Story Bridge Tutored Climb Tuesday 5th
Twilight Shoot Meet at 2.35pm |
October 2012 |
Halloween! A night of shooting the dark side! |
More dates currently being set |
'The Story Bridge Photographic climb was a
once in a lifetime experience for me.
The climb was challenging not physically but more
so from a photographic perspective as there was
just
so much to see and capture.
With ever changing lighting conditions, no two shots
are the same. The only problem I have now is trying
to choose my best shot!
Thanks to Danielle, Anita and the crew at the
Story Bridge Adventure Climb for a truly
memorable shoot.'
Anthony
Story Bridge Photography Climb An extended climb than the normal climbs, it is designed for photographers of all levels, allowing you many photographic opportunities. Before the climb you are sent Bluedog’s Bridge Climb Tip Sheets packed with loads of information about photographing this amazing structure and the surrounding cityscape On the day of the climb your tutor and hand-picked Story Bridge Adventure Climb Leader will share further tips, discuss the challenges and opportunities this climb presents photographically. During and after the climb your tutor will provide you with feedback on your images on camera FAQ’s: Q. I am not sure of my fitness? Q. I have a voucher can I use it? Price: Mon- Thurs: $199.00;
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![]() Marianne's view of climbing the bridge |
Did you read our blog on photographing the male Mistletoe bird? |
![]() Caught in flight by Sue at Currumbin |
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![]() Carpet snake |
Halloween.... A night where ghosts, witches, vampires and werewolves come out to play! A great fun night with a prize for the best dressed. Tip sheet given to all participants. Price: $157.00 includes a cup of broth and eerie nibbles. To book: "Halloween" |
Halloween! |
Run over 2 half day sessions – 9.00am-12.00pm – all you need to do is bring your camera. Session notes provided, Bluedog Rewards vouchers given to all participants and a copy of ‘Out around the Bulloo’, a hard cover book of images awarded for the best image taken in session 1. Most FAQ: The full day Beginner Photography Workshop is much more comprehensive and is aimed at making you a creative photographer using your camera off Auto and understanding the basics of shutter speed, aperture and ISO, how they interact together and how you work these on your own camera. By lunch you are freezing droplets of water in mid air and by the end of the day you have the skills to set your cameras dials for landscapes, portraits and night photography such as fireworks, lightning or even volcanoes! It covers composition, focusing points and you receive a copy of the Bluedog Photography Bible plus a full set of notes, back-up critique and Bluedog Rewards vouchers. The two half day sessions offered at UQ are suitable for both Point and Shoots and digital SLR’s. It teaches you how to use composition and lighting to take images you will be proud of. Cost: We regret rewards vouchers are not redeemable for 'Special Events'. |
![]() A still life by Pita |
Intro to Photoshop and Photo Elements
Learn how to process your images, work in layers, resize, make selections, colour balance and make your images pop!
Workshop notes given to all participants.
Cost:
Full Day Beginner Workshop with Julie: $250.00
Full day Beginner Workshop includes: Bridge and Camera Raw, full-on Photoshop tutorial, Black and White, text, borders and compositing.
Light It, Shoot It, Process It!
Day 1:
Using a range of lighting techniques this practical day will be aimed to give you a range of lighting and posing experiences. We will be including natural, speed light and studio flash scenarios for you to shoot with a range of models during the day. Includes lunch, morning and afternoon tea, USB with notes, shooting from 9am-7pm with meal breaks and for those doing day 2 our special print offer.
Day 2:
Learn how the professionals photographers retouch their portraits for naturally beautiful results in our 'Portrait Retouching' tutorial. Our 'Finishing Touches' tutorial will show you how to edit your portrait images to set them apart from the crowd. We'll walk you through creating Actions for skin smoothing and more which will cut your workflow time in half. You'll then have time to prepare one of your images, with your tutors assistance, for a final print as a 8"x12" portfolio image. A basic understanding of Photoshop is required please feel free to contact us to discuss skill levels with your tutors if you are unsure.
Price:
Day 1: $465.00
Day 2: $350.00
Day 1 and 2: $770.00 + your free 8x12" print!!
One-on-one: $150/hour
Location: Tamborine Mountain Studio or at your own work or home.
To book please email us at "Digital Imaging" or call 07 5545 4777
Prerequisites:
There is no prerequisites required for Intro to Photoshop.
You need not have completed the Bluedog Intro to attend the Creative Series.
Materials required and supplied:
A laptop computer with either Adobe Photoshop CS4 or CS5 loaded
(you can download a free 30 day trial)
1GB USB Memory Stick,
Notepad and pen
Images of your own you may wish to work on.
We will supply images for working on tutorials, workshop notes and a statement of attendance.
One-On-One and Small Group Sessions in Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom and Elements
Our one-on-one and small group courses/workshops/sessions are designed around you.
We can offer: A program specifically for your needs in whatever subject you choose.
Included in our digital imaging is everything from an introduction into photography's new dark room to advanced techniques.
| Our one-on-one and small group courses/workshops/sessions are designed around you. We can offer: A program specifically for your needs in whatever subject you choose. It may be learning how to drive your new camera, experimenting and acquiring knowledge in studio lighting, flash - any of a range of possibilities are on offer including digital imaging using Photoshop and Lightroom. |
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Examples of some of our sessions: |
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| Date & Time | Availability |
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2012 |
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20th - 22nd April |
Yes |
5th - 7th October |
Yes |
"Your Weekend Photography Retreat was a
pleasure to be part of with your
friendly
and
informal approach.
I enjoyed making new friends sharing
in
a common passion.
The knowledge and experience
that you draw
on seems endless.
You have opened my eyes
a little wider.
I always felt I had an eye for
an image
worth capturing but now, I see that
scene in a different light
(pardon the pun)
and many more that I wouldn't have
given
a second glance in the past."
Robert H. November 2008
This two day workshop allows participants to explore the wonderful
world of photography.
Each retreat itinerary is arranged around participant's
particular interests - view our May 10 Bluedog Photography Weekend Retreat itinerary to see an example.
A
minimum of two professional tutors per session.
We meet on Friday evening
where photographers and their partners meet the tutors, dine, view a presentation
such as our 'Masters of the Lens', receive your 'Bluedog Retreat' pack
with notes, map, flyers and vouchers and head on a night shoot.
During the weekend we visit places such as the acclaimed Tamborine Mountain Botanic Gardens, venture into Queensland's oldest rainforest (the third oldest in the world!), visit the historic Tamborine Mountain Heritage Centre, and take in a sunrise and sunset.
Price:
For 2012 Tamborine Mountain Weekend Retreats $780.00
Includes meals (morning tea and lunch on Saturday
and Sunday and dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings),
tuition, notes, model, guides, entry, a glass of wine/juice and nibbles at sunset shoot on Saturday.
For non-photography partners wishing to join us for dinner it is $45.00
per dinner each night.
For other wonderful things to see and do and accommodation options
on Tamborine Mountain Read
more about Tamborine Mountain.
Registration is essential and currently being taken. To register Contact
Us. Bookings
and numbers apply.
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| Date & Time | Availability |
|---|---|
More Dates Currently Being Set
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2012 |
Dates to be announced soon. |
Join photo journalist Danielle Lancaster in these stimulating and
informative workshops.
The Beginners Guide to the World of Writing:
The Art of Photojournalism: Christine will cover the art of perception & observation; creativity & imagination, how to write,
writer’s block & things to avoid, stimulating the senses plus there will be a practical exercise in writing and critique and constructive criticism.
The Art of Photojournalism - How to capture a story on camera and in print: Learn what is the difference in Writing vs Journalism, Writing vs Photography, what is the truth and how do you find it? How to write for newspapers and magazine, the Press Release, the tools and tricks of the trade plus there will be a practical exercise in writing and critique and constructive criticism.
From Concept to Print: In this session we cover essential information such as dealing with deadlines, legal issues, packaging and pitching and much more.
How to Prepare a Press Release & Stop them 'Falling to the Floor'!
No matter what business you are in the press release is used everywhere and not just for the press.
The tools you use are ones you will use in the everyday writing for your business from the web to advertising.
Includes you preparing a release and crit.
Numbers will be limited and bookings are essential.
Cost $255.00 inc GST.
For further details or to book - Ph: 07 5545 4777 or e-mail "Learn How to Write"
| Date & Time | Availability |
|---|---|
September 2012 |
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14th - 17th inclusive |
Yes |
Join the Bluedog photographers and resident Fraser Island nationally acclaimed photographer and Kingfisher Bay Ranger Ranger Peter Meyer of Living Gallery Photography discovering some of their favourite photography haunts on Fraser Island! We will stay at Kingfisher Bay Resort. The tour is limited to two vehicles only so you will be assured a personal yet rewarding photography experience. For more visit our Fraser Island Photography Tour page |
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Outback Queensland Tour
For more info
Outback Queensland Photography Tour

Join Bluedog Photography into the Outback: an ancient land filled with nostalgia, fantastic characters and never ending skies.
Danielle Lancaster will take you on a journey to places and faces in her beloved Outback Queensland on this first ever Outback Desert Photographic Odyssey tour designed specifically for photographers and partners.
All you need to pack is your camera gear for this tour is a fully catered tour: each night our beds made and all our meals prepared! We travel in our own Aussie Outback Tours 4WD vehicle with Alan Smith, a born and bred outback character with a wealth of knowledge at the helm. We stay at the iconic Birdsville Hotel and much more..
For more information visit our Outback Queensland Photography Tour page
| Date & Time | Availability |
|---|---|
February 2012 |
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TBA |
Yes |
Hong Kong Chinese New Year Tour
After our exciting 2010 tour we are now planning to return for the 2012!
A limited edition 6 day adventure with two tutors to this exciting city.
Experience the smorgasbord of images this bustling city has to offer.
Adorned with lights, decorations and celebrations at every turn we will take in the heights of the Peak Tram and the fireworks on Victoria Harbour.
We'll walk through the tranquil Hong Kong Park
and be mesmerised as the locals gather for Tai Chi.
No trip complete without a little retail therapy we'll visit the famous Mongkok area with its markets and electronic stores (this means camera gear folks!).
Other highlights include the great laneways and bars of the Soho district, the Great Buddha, the flower and bird markets,
lunching in Stanley overlooking the South China Sea.
Cost:
TBA Includes 4 star accommodation on Hong Kong Island, 2 tutors for assistance and critique, breakfast each day, 3 lunches,
all entry fees and transfers to nominated activities. LAND based content only. Airfares and airport transfers are not included.
Max of 8.
View more: Chinese New Year Hong Kong Photo Tour
| Date & Time | Availability |
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May 2012 |
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2nd - 8th |
Yes |
![]() By Wendy Waller |
![]() By Mary Rennie on Tanna Island |
On Efate Island we will stay in luxury accommodation, tour the capital Port Vila, treasure hunt in the markets, view the amazing Mele Cascades, beautiful beaches as well as snorkel with brilliant reef fish and corals and take an around island tour as well as hone our photography skills. View more details at: Vanuatu Island Photography Tour "I had a sensational time and I have got to say I learnt more over the last week about my camera than I have since I got it at Christmas. Thank you so much for all your knowledge and skill it was just amazing to watch and listen to the amount of expertise you have. I really noticed how much I am “thinking“ about my shots now-
in terms of ISO, DOF, white balance etc. |
By Donna Morton |
Don't
forget if you want something particular just ask - there is sure to be
someone else who would like that subject and as the class sizes are kept
small, we will try and accommodate you. Registration
and receipt of place is essential as numbers are limited. We want the
workshops to continue to be very personalised so that you may gain the
maximum from the workshops. Remember
we do need you to book your place and after you book you receive a registration
form. Once we receive this back with payment to secure your position then
you are booked. Read
the Bluedog Terms and Conditions for Workshops and Retreats.
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Copyright Bluedog Pty Ltd 2011
All Rights Reserved - Disclaimer
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