Step into the forest and see the world through a new lens! This fun, hands-on workshop is perfect for kids of all levels – from complete beginners to those who already love taking photos. We'll help them grow their skills, creativity, and confidence with their cameras.
Next workshop
Registrations are essential so we can make sure there are enough cameras for everyone and know exactly how many kids will need one.
Proudly supported by Hutt City Council
On the day
Participants are required to bring their own DSLR cameras.
However, thanks to our generous supporters, we do have six spare cameras available for use, which will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Students will need to bring their own lunch and arrange drop off and pick up.
What’s involved?
Our photography workshops are specially designed for young minds eager to explore photography and storytelling in a fun and supportive way.
Why our workshops are great for kids:
- Time outdoors to explore nature with fresh eyes and learn practical photography skills
- A fun, social experience with other curious young photographers
- A chance to slow down, pay attention, and really see the world around them
- A safe, encouraging space to express themselves through their photos
Held in the beautiful Wainuiomata forest, this workshop is all about exploring nature up close – from towering trees and winding trails to tiny surprises hidden under the leaves, like mushrooms, fungi, and other forest treasures.
What they’ll learn:
- How to use their cameras confidently and explore different perspectives
- How to develop stronger composition skills for more striking photos
- How to photograph trees creatively – from the ground up and all around
- How to spot and photograph small forest details like mushrooms and fungi
- How to work with the changing light in a forest environment
- How to tell a simple visual story through a series of photos
About us
We are a group of professional and experienced photographers, passionate about helping young photographers grow, create powerful visual stories, and forge lifelong connections with like-minded peers.
After the workshop, every participant will be provided with their own online gallery and high-resolution digital copies of their photographs. This not only allows them to start building their very own portfolio but also gives them the opportunity to showcase their work at our exhibition.
Inspired learners
"Thank you so much for the awesome experience of taking your photography course! It taught me a lot that I didn’t know about cameras and photography before coming!" Loren W.
“[Our daughter] learnt a lot and enjoyed the experience so we’ve signed her up again for the next session.” May L.
“Chris enjoyed the course and said he learnt a lot of things like the golden ratio. He does art at school and these skills will be useful there.” Chaucey E.
Our tutors
All our tutors have undergone criminal-background checks and are fully vaccinated to ensure a safe and secure learning environment.
Ana Lyubich, Excio
Ana is a lifestyle and nature photographer and is a founder of Excio Photo Community. She believes that each photograph is unique and reflects an individual’s personality.
Ana usually talks about the essentials of photography and works with students to develop their own style and build their first public photo portfolios.
Ann Kilpatrick
Ann is a dedicated street, people, and nature photographer and visual storyteller based in Wellington. She lives there with her family and is a strong advocate for nurturing young talent. Alongside guiding kids with their cameras, Ann takes high-quality photos of children at workshops, which we then share with their parents.
Zhanna Yasinetskaya
Zhanna is a family and kids photographer from Upper Hutt, dedicated to fostering a love for photography in young children. She is often found behind her camera or phone, recording videos of our workshops.
Joy Tracey
Joy is an experienced Wellington-based photographer. She loves nature, macro, and insect photography, and she's a great storyteller too. Join us on one of our Percy Reserve workshops, where Joy will be your special guide in the Weta Cave!