Frequently Asked Questions
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Photography courses vary in duration based on content and format. Express courses range from 2 to 3 hours (such as the DSLR and Mirrorless Express at 3 hours), while comprehensive workshops typically run 4 hours. Full-day masterclasses and combined day/night sessions extend to 6 hours. Online courses offer lifetime access with flexible pacing. Individual mentoring sessions are typically 1 hour 15 minutes to 2 hours.
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No prior experience is required for most courses. The DSLR and Mirrorless Express course explicitly states students need no prior photography knowledge. Wildlife photography courses at Melbourne Zoo and Healesville Sanctuary cater to all skill levels from novices to master photographers, ages 9 to 99. However, some advanced courses like the Digital SLR and Mirrorless Cameras Photo Workshop recommend basic understanding of camera functions beforehand.
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Most courses require a digital camera capable of manual mode—99% of DSLR and mirrorless cameras have this feature. For wildlife photography courses, medium to larger zoom lenses are preferred. Night photography courses require a tripod (some providers supply them if needed). Smartphone photography courses require only your smartphone. Always bring fully charged batteries and memory cards with storage space. Film developing courses require your own exposed film if doing personal development.
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Yes, several courses maintain small group sizes. Night photography courses typically limit groups to 6 students with 2 teachers. Wildlife photography courses at Melbourne Zoo and Healesville Sanctuary also take small groups of 6 students to ensure maximum attention. The Manual Photography Course in Melbourne caps classes at 8 participants. The Smartphone Photography Workshop is limited to groups of 6 or less. This approach contrasts with many other Melbourne camera schools that accept larger groups.
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Beginner courses cover fundamental camera functions including aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and white balance. Courses teach the transition from auto mode to manual mode, focus settings, and exposure control. Composition and lighting principles are emphasized as core elements. Many courses include practical exercises, photo critiques, and location-based learning. The DSLR and Mirrorless Express course claims students acquire manual mode photography skills in under 3 hours, while longer courses like Beginners Photography Course 1 provide more comprehensive coverage of multiple topics.
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Both formats are offered. The Adobe Lightroom Beginners Masterclass is available as an in-person 4-hour workshop in Melbourne with National Geographic featured photographer Daniel Bilsborough, and also as an online course with lifetime access. Individual photography mentoring is available both online and in-person at locations like CERES. Smartphone Photography Class Live is conducted online. Most specialized courses like wildlife, night, and walking tours are held in-person at specific locations.