Workshop FAQ
Astro • Seascape • Landscape
Max 4
Australia + NZ
Photography Workshop FAQ
Straight answers to the questions people ask before booking: skill level, gear, weather, inclusions, travel logistics and policies — across my small-group workshops on the Sunshine Coast (QLD) and selected locations in NSW, WA, NT and New Zealand.
Quick answer: If you want hands-on coaching in a genuinely small group, these workshops are built for you. Groups are capped at 4, we plan around light and conditions, teach a repeatable capture + editing workflow, and operate with permits/permissions where required plus documented safety practices.
Locations: Sunshine Coast (QLD) + selected AU/NZ trips
Group size: Max 4
Skill level: keen beginners → advanced
What you shoot: astro, seascapes, landscapes
Editing: Lightroom + Photoshop (workshop-dependent)
Safety: documented practices + $20M public liability
Max 4 for real coaching
Weather/conditions pivots
Permits/permissions where required
$20M public liability insurance
Note: astro outcomes are always weather dependent. If skies don’t cooperate, we pivot to stronger options and deeper coaching rather than forcing a bad plan.
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FAQs
Direct answers to the common questions — written for real humans (and search engines).
How do I book or join the waitlist?
Head to Workshops Overview. If a date is sold out, join the waitlist so you’re contacted first if a seat opens or new dates are released.
How big are your workshop groups?
Maximum of four participants. That keeps it hands-on (settings, composition, focus, filters, workflow) and avoids crowded shooting spots.
Do I need photography experience to join?
No. We start with an on-location quick-start and set up your camera together. Coaching is tailored — keen beginners through to advanced photographers are welcome.
Are your workshops beginner-friendly near Brisbane?
Yes. Sunshine Coast workshops (including Noosa and nearby dark-sky locations) are designed to suit keen beginners through to advanced, with guidance matched to your level.
What gear should I pack for a seascape sunrise or an astro night?
Bring a tripod and a wide-angle lens (around 14–24mm).
Astro: an f/2.8 (or faster) lens, headlamp (red light preferred), spare batteries, warm layers.
Seascape: remote/timer, optional CPL, and a 6–10 stop ND depending on the look you want.
If you’re upgrading, ask about partner pricing where eligible: My Gear List.
Astro: an f/2.8 (or faster) lens, headlamp (red light preferred), spare batteries, warm layers.
Seascape: remote/timer, optional CPL, and a 6–10 stop ND depending on the look you want.
If you’re upgrading, ask about partner pricing where eligible: My Gear List.
Do I need ND filters to shoot seascapes?
Not always — but they help you control shutter speed for intentional motion (soft blur vs textured water). We’ll cover when to use them and what strength makes sense in real conditions.
What happens if the weather turns bad?
We pivot: backup locations, different subjects, and/or more editing/coaching time. If conditions are unsafe, we reschedule where practical. Cloud or poor astro visibility alone does not automatically trigger refunds under the policy.
Will we definitely shoot the Milky Way?
No promises — astro is always weather dependent. We plan for it, but we’ll prioritise safe, strong outcomes (and pivot to seascapes/landscapes/editing if skies don’t cooperate).
When is the best time to photograph the Milky Way on the Sunshine Coast?
Generally February to October. The galactic core is most prominent roughly April to September. New-moon windows often give the cleanest sky, but weather always matters.
Do you provide accommodation or transport?
It depends on the workshop. Some are self-drive/self-book. Some include local ground transport and/or transfers. Each workshop page lists exactly what’s included so you can plan confidently.
How physical are the workshops?
Usually easy to moderate walking on sand, tracks and uneven rock. We brief safe positioning (especially around swell) and adjust plans if you’ve got an injury or concern — just tell me early.
What is your refund and reschedule policy?
Summary:
• 60 days or more — 100% refund less A$100 admin fee
• 30–59 days — 50% refund
• Less than 30 days — no refund unless your seat is re-sold (then 100% refund less admin fee)
Deposits are non-refundable but may be transferable once if requested 30+ days prior (terms apply). Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Full terms: Cancellation & Refund Policy.
• 60 days or more — 100% refund less A$100 admin fee
• 30–59 days — 50% refund
• Less than 30 days — no refund unless your seat is re-sold (then 100% refund less admin fee)
Deposits are non-refundable but may be transferable once if requested 30+ days prior (terms apply). Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Full terms: Cancellation & Refund Policy.
Do you operate with permits and permissions?
Yes — we operate with permits/permissions where required and plan around access rules. If a location is restricted or conditions aren’t safe, we swap to an alternative.
Are drones allowed on workshops?
Drones aren’t part of these workshops. If you fly independently outside workshop time, you’re responsible for checking current CASA rules and any local/site restrictions (parks, councils, culturally sensitive areas, and private land).
Do you run photography workshops outside Queensland?
Yes — there are trips in QLD plus selected workshops in NSW, WA, NT and New Zealand. See the current list on Workshops Overview.
How do I choose the right workshop for me?
Start with what you most want to improve (astro, seascape, landscape, editing), your travel comfort level, and your current skill level. If you’re unsure, send me a quick note via Contact and I’ll point you to the best-fit option.
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© 2025 Dylan Knight Photography · Sunshine Coast, QLD · ABN 86 112 559 463