Gold Coast Hinterland Photography Workshop (May 2026)
A 5-day small-group workshop (max 3) that blends astrophotography-first night technique (conditions permitting), Lamington waterfalls,
and Gold Coast seascapes, with editing sessions so you leave with a repeatable workflow, not just a memory card full of maybes.
We include workshop transport + Brisbane Airport (BNE) transfers and one included accommodation night at Mount Barney (shared, remote lodge).
The remaining accommodation nights (Lamington + the coast) are self-booked.
Quick overview: The Gold Coast Hinterland Photography Workshop is a 5-day small-group workshop (max 3) based around Mount Barney, Lamington National Park, and the Gold Coast coastline. You'll shoot astrophotography-first night technique (conditions permitting), rainforest waterfalls, and sunrise/sunset seascapes, then lock it in with Lightroom/Photoshop editing sessions. Accommodation is partly included: the Mount Barney lodge night is included (shared); Lamington + coast nights are self-booked.
*Mount Barney lodge night is included (shared) due to the remote lodge setup. Lamington + coast accommodation is self-booked at this stage. We'll provide recommended areas/options after booking.
Workshop snapshot
The planning essentials in one place.
Travel: Complimentary transfers from Brisbane Airport (BNE). Please arrive before 12:00pm on Day 1 and book departure flights 1:00pm or later on Day 5.
Who this workshop is for
A quick check so you book the right fit (and don't get surprised).
Great fit if you…
- Want hands-on coaching in a max 3 group.
- Want waterfalls + coast + astro-first night technique in one trip.
- Are happy to shoot early/late for good light, then edit during the day.
- Want a repeatable workflow, not just "nice spots".
May not suit if you…
- Don't want to use a tripod or learn manual settings.
- Aren't comfortable on uneven rainforest tracks (Lamington isn't flat).
- Don't want to do editing sessions (laptop required).
- Need fully catered accommodation (most nights are self-booked).
What happens after you book
Simple steps, so you know exactly what's next.
You'll receive confirmation and a short questionnaire (gear, experience, goals) so coaching is tailored from day one.
We'll send recommended areas/options for Lamington + the coast so you can book what suits your budget and comfort level.
You'll get meeting times, a packing list, and simple notes to set up for editing sessions.
Closer to the date, we confirm meeting points and timing based on conditions, access and safe footing.
Why this Gold Coast itinerary works
Winter clarity, strong variety (mountains, rainforest and coast), and a schedule designed to reduce "drive all day" fatigue.
We prioritise astrophotography and plan around moon phase and Milky Way alignment, then choose the best safe, accessible options on the night based on conditions and location.
Rainforest flow, polariser technique, and long-exposure control without turning your files to mush.
Currumbin and Fingal for sunrise/sunset seascapes, patterns, and tide-timed decisions.
What you'll learn
Practical fieldcraft + editing, explained step by step.
- Night setup: a repeatable focus routine, exposure intent, and clean files (conditions permitting)
- Milky Way planning using PhotoPills and sky apps (e.g. Sky Guide / Stellarium)
- Using a star tracker (loaner available) and stacking basics for noise control
- Waterfalls: polariser use, shutter choices, and composition in rainforest clutter
- Seascapes: wave timing, long exposures, and tide-aware positioning
- Lightroom + Photoshop: culling, masking, blending where appropriate, and clean finishing
- Colour control: keeping greens natural and skies believable
- Sharpness/focus checks that actually work in wind and spray
- If skies don't cooperate: we still teach the full astro workflow using downloadable Milky Way RAW data captured on a clear night, so you can practise settings, workflow and blending in the editing sessions.
- A personal checklist you can reuse on future trips
What past students say
Real feedback from small-group workshops.
"Dylan has put a lot of time and effort into this workshop. He is easy to understand and ensures each student gets the time they need to grasp the concepts. I really appreciated that there were only four students—Dylan spent plenty of time with each of us."
– Jo
"Incredible workshop as Dylan has so much knowledge and experience as a tutor and photographer and is so willing to share it all with his clients. I learnt so much, but at a rate that I could understand as we went along and didn't feel overwhelmed."
– Lynette (Noosa National Park Workshop)
"Knighty's Astro photography session was an amazingly transformative and immersive experience as a beginner photographer... I came back with marvellous photos and newfound confidence."
– Amber
Read all testimonials from past workshop participants.
Editing sessions + what to bring
Clear requirements so you don't get caught out on day one.
Editing session requirements
- Please bring a laptop capable of running Lightroom and/or Photoshop.
- Bring a card reader or cable, plus spare storage (SSD recommended).
- If you don't use Adobe, you can still join the sessions, but examples are taught in Lightroom/Photoshop.
What to bring (minimum)
- Camera with manual control + 1–2 lenses (wide recommended for astro/seascapes)
- Tripod (essential) + spare batteries + head torch
- Polariser for waterfalls (recommended)
- Light rain jacket + grippy shoes for wet tracks
Fitness and access
What to expect at Lamington (and how we manage conditions).
Lamington locations involve walking on uneven rainforest tracks and steps, often damp or slippery. You don't need to be an athlete, but you should be comfortable walking for extended periods at a steady pace. We adjust locations and timing based on conditions, track access and safe footing, and we follow on-site guidance.
Itinerary (5 days)
Exact timing flexes with conditions. We prioritise safe access and the best light.
Day 1 — Mount Barney (arrival + sunset + night option)
Day 2 — Mount Barney sunrise + editing session + move to Lamington (self-booked accommodation)
Day 3 — Lamington hike day (waterfalls + rainforest)
Day 4 — Editing session + coast transfer (self-booked accommodation)
Day 5 — Sunrise + departure
Accommodation
What's included vs what you choose yourself.
Included: 1 night at the Mount Barney lodge (shared, remote lodge setup).
Self-booked: Lamington nights + coast nights, so you can choose your own budget and comfort level.
After booking, you'll receive recommended areas/options for Lamington and the coast to make booking simple.
What's included
Clear inclusions (and what you'll need to cover yourself).
Included
- 5-day workshop tuition (max 3 participants)
- Workshop transport between locations + BNE pickup/drop-off (group schedule)
- 1 night accommodation included: Mount Barney lodge (shared, remote lodge setup)
- Guided shoots (sunrise/sunset + astro-first night technique when conditions allow)
- Editing sessions (Lightroom/Photoshop)
- Loaner star tracker + limited spares on request
- Permits/permissions where required
- Documented safety practices + $20M public liability (details on request)
After booking, you'll receive recommended accommodation areas/options for Lamington and the coast so you can choose budget and comfort level.
Not included
- Flights to/from Brisbane (BNE)
- Accommodation (self-booked): Lamington nights + coast nights
- Meals and drinks
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Personal gear purchases
Want cancellation opportunities or future dates? Subscribe for workshop releases. Get workshop releases.
Pricing
Early Bird ends after the first booking (then Standard applies). Prices in $AUD.
FAQs
Direct answers to the common booking questions.
Is accommodation included?
Is this suitable for beginners?
Will we definitely shoot the Milky Way?
Do I need to bring a laptop?
How fit do I need to be for Lamington?
What camera gear should I bring?
Do you teach Lightroom and Photoshop?
Are airport transfers included?
What happens if the weather is poor?
Are permits and insurance in place?
Are drones allowed?
Where are the Gold Coast workshops located?
How do I hear about cancellations or future dates?
What's your cancellation policy?
Testimonials
What past workshop participants say.
"Incredible workshop as Dylan has so much knowledge and experience as a tutor and photographer and is so willing to share it all with his clients. I learnt so much, but at a rate that I could understand as we went along and didn't feel overwhelmed. Would highly recommend and would participate in future workshops in a heartbeat."
– Lynette (Noosa National Park Workshop)
"Dylan has put a lot of time and effort into this workshop. He is easy to understand and ensures each student gets the time they need to grasp the concepts. I really appreciated that there were only four students—Dylan spent plenty of time with each of us. The follow-up eBooks he created and published are a terrific way to reinforce the weekend and make sure the new techniques and knowledge really stick. Thank you Dylan—I really enjoyed the weekend and can't wait to see what's next."
– Jo
"Highly recommend Knighty's Photography! You won't be disappointed! I've done a few private workshops with Dylan over the last five years and it's been great! Looking forward to my next workshop with Dylan!"
– Wendy K.
"Knighty's Astro photography session was an amazingly transformative and immersive experience as a beginner photographer... I came back with marvellous photos and newfound confidence."
– Amber
"I was absolutely stoked with the workshop... Dylan clarified a lot of the questions I had. Would love to do this again!"
– Workshop Participant
"Dylan was an attentive and knowledgeable instructor who was prepared to put in extra time... He made sure to check on all photographers and provided tailored advice."
– Participant Feedback
"The workshop was excellent. Dylan was very knowledgeable and professional. He went over and above to ensure we all had a great experience."
– Nikon School Attendee
"Even with the constant rain, Dylan kept me up to date and gave me peace of mind. The workshop clarified so many things that YouTube never could. Highly recommended!"
– Workshop Attendee
"I would highly recommend a Nikon School Workshop and Dylan Knight. He followed up with extra resources and provided a professional experience from start to finish."
– Nikon Workshop Participant
Testimonials
"Dylan has put a lot of time and effort into this workshop. He is easy to understand and ensures each student gets the time they need to grasp the concepts. I really appreciated that there were only four students—Dylan spent plenty of time with each of us. The follow-up eBooks he created and published are a terrific way to reinforce the weekend and make sure the new techniques and knowledge really stick. Thank you Dylan—I really enjoyed the weekend and can’t wait to see what’s next."
– Jo
"I've done quite a few workshops with Dylan. The planning that Dylan goes into to find great locations and getting the time right for the best light is brilliant. Milky Way sessions are just fantastic!"
– Terry Mugavin
"Knighty's Astro photography session was an amazingly transformative and immersive experience as a beginner photographer... I came back with marvellous photos and newfound confidence."
– Amber
"Highly recommend Knighty’s Photography! You won’t be disappointed! I’ve done a few private workshops with Dylan over the last five years and it’s been great! Looking forward to my next workshop with Dylan!"
– Wendy K.
"It was a great night – fantastic location, and great tips to get the most out of the night sky."
– Linda
"The workshop was excellent. Dylan was very knowledgeable and professional. He went over and above to ensure we all had a great experience."
– Nikon School Attendee
"I would highly recommend a Nikon School Workshop and Dylan Knight. He followed up with extra resources and provided a professional experience from start to finish."
– Nikon Workshop Participant
"I was absolutely stoked with the workshop... Dylan clarified a lot of the questions I had. Would love to do this again!"
– Workshop Participant