Transform Your Photography:
Master the Art of Seeing Art
A three-day immersive photography workshop
led by Steve Parish OAM in Maleny on the Sunshine Coast Hinterland
November 6 – 8th, 2026
Over three immersive days of studio conversations, guided field photography and reflective creative exercises, you’ll move beyond technique to discover your creative direction, deepen the way you see and develop a more personal photographic voice—using photography as a pathway to greater purpose, expression and connection.
“Hugely inspiring — a brilliant culmination of a Grand Master’s knowledge and insights.”
— Leo Meier
Your Weekend
Three Days That Will Transform Your Photography
Friday – Purpose November 6th
9:00 am to 5:30 pm
Your creative journey begins by exploring what inspires you to take photographs and how your interests, experiences and curiosity can shape a more meaningful creative life. Throughout the day, you’ll begin recognising the subjects and themes that naturally draw your attention — and how they can become the foundation for purposeful photographic projects.
MORNING – Towards a Creative Vision
Explore the experiences, interests and passions that influence the way you see the world. Through discussion, practical activities and guided reflection, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of
AFTERNOON – Projects with Purpose
Discover how successful photographic projects can grow from simple ideas into rewarding long-term pursuits. Learn practical ways to recognise opportunities, develop themes and create projects that continue to inspire you long after the workshop.
GOLDEN HOUR – Guided Photography Field Experience
Put the day’s ideas into practice in a beautiful natural setting. Working alongside Steve and the workshop team, you’ll begin applying what you have explored throughout the day while receiving individual guidance, encouragement and practical support.
Saturday – Seeing November 7th
8:00 am to 5:30 pm
Saturday is devoted to developing the Art of Seeing through practical experience. Presentations, field photography and image conversations will strengthen your observational skills and help you create photographs with greater confidence, intention and personal expression.
EARLY MORNING – Sunrise Photography Experience
Begin the day photographing in the changing morning light at Mary Cairncross. This relaxed field session encourages you to slow down, observe carefully and respond to the landscape with patience, curiosity and an open mind.
MIDDAY – The Art of Seeing – Core Session
Steve introduces the principles that have shaped his photographic journey, including his Twelve Perceptions — a practical framework for recognising light, design, relationships and atmosphere with greater awareness and intention. The focus is not simply on taking photographs, but on learning to see more deeply.
Creative Field Exercises: Put the morning’s ideas into practice through a guided photographic exercise focused on native plants or wildlife. By working carefully with a single subject, you’ll discover how patience, observation and thoughtful composition can transform an ordinary scene into a compelling photograph.
AFTERNOON – Photographing with Intention
Explore practical approaches to composition, light, timing and visual relationships. Learn to recognise stronger photographic opportunities and understand why successful images begin long before the shutter is pressed.
Image Conversations: Review and discuss the day’s photographic experiences in a supportive learning environment. Through shared conversation, you’ll gain fresh insights into your own work while learning from the observations and reflections of others.
GOLDEN HOUR: Glasshouse Mountains at Sunset
Explore practical approaches to composition, light, timing and visual relationships. Learn to recognise stronger photographic opportunities and understand why successful images begin long before the shutter is pressed.
Image Conversations: Conclude the day overlooking the spectacular Glass House Mountains as the landscape is transformed by the warm light of late afternoon and sunset. Learn practical approaches to composition, changing light and panoramic photography in one of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland’s most inspiring locations.
Sunday – Expression November 8th
8:00am to 4:00 pm
The final day brings everything together, focusing on expressing your creative vision and continuing your journey beyond the workshop. You’ll explore editing, storytelling and practical ways to share your work with greater authenticity and confidence.
EARLY MORNING – Art at Your Feet Photowalk
Explore the often-overlooked world beneath your feet. Through a guided tripod exercise, you’ll learn to slow down and create expressive photographs from leaves, bark, roots, patterns and textures hidden within the forest floor. Discover how careful observation and thoughtful composition can reveal extraordinary beauty in the ordinary.
MIDDAY – The Digital Darkroom
Discover a thoughtful approach to selecting and refining your photographs. Learn how careful editing can strengthen mood, direct attention and communicate your creative vision more effectively while remaining true to the original experience.
AFTERNOON – Sharing Your Work
Explore how photographs can become stories that connect with others. Whether through books, exhibitions, presentations, prints or online platforms, you’ll discover practical ways to share your work with authenticity and confidence.
The Transformation
Learn to See Differently
In three immersive days with Steve Parish, you’ll explore the importance of developing your own artistic vision and be motivated to see the world in new ways.
While understanding your camera is important, this workshop focuses on cultivating awareness, intuition, and a creative approach to photography.
It’s a deep dive into a photographic practice honed over decades of capturing Australia’s natural world and sharing it with diverse audiences.
Discover Your Creative Purpose
Clarify your direction as a photographer and the deeper reason you create.
Explore how passion, without purpose, can fade over time — and how aligning your photography with service to others provides a sustaining sense of meaning, direction, and creative fulfilment that endures.
The Art of Seeing
Learn to see extraordinary compositions within ordinary moments.
Develop an intuitive relationship with light, colour, and emotion — training yourself to recognise visual meaning before you ever lift the camera.
Photographing with Intention
This Masterclass takes you beyond “nice pictures” into photographs that carry meaning — from defining your Creative Life Purpose, to the art of seeing, to confident capture, to vision and editing, and finally sharing in a way that connects. Your images begin to reflect who you are, not just what you photographed.
Signature Editing Style
Discover how post-processing can extend creative intent rather than dictate style. Explore a range of digital art approaches — from image treatment to text and titles — and begin developing a visual voice that is uniquely your own.
Storytelling Through Photography
Every meaningful photograph has a story. Learn how thoughtful reflection, storytelling and sharing your experiences can deepen the connection between your photographs and the people who view them.
Learning Beyond the Workshop
Stay connected long after the workshop ends. Registration includes ongoing access to Steve’s Masterclass — receiving all updates to eBooks and videos — and a private Facebook community, where participants can continue learning, sharing work, and engaging with Steve and fellow photographers over time.
Your Guides for the Weekend
Steve Parish OAM
Nature Photographer, Writer & Digital Artist
Steve is one of Australia’s most respected nature photographers, with over five decades of experience working in the field.
His images have been widely published and exhibited, and his work has played a significant role in fostering nature connection and environmental awareness across generations of Australians.
In 2008, Steve was awarded the Order of Australia for his contribution to Australian natural and social history education. He is the founder of Steve Parish Publishing, which grew into a multi-million-dollar publishing and logistics enterprise producing hundreds of publications distributed internationally.
Michelle Gapes
Photographer, Writer & Creative Facilitator
Michelle guides reflective exercises, in-field photography experiences, image conversations and storytelling, helping participants connect more deeply with their photographs and confidently express the stories behind them.
With more than 30 years’ experience in communications and workshop facilitation, together with two MBAs and her work through The Lens & Pen Collective, she brings a thoughtful and engaging perspective that complements Steve’s Art of Seeing philosophy.
Photographers on Steve’s Teachings and Creative Philosophy
“I love module the digital in particular. I have always loved making art from my photographs. As much as I love a beautiful photograph, what I love on a wall is masses of colour, painted and swirled ” — Anne Bransgrove
“Helped me see my photography differently — a must for discovering your creative pathway.” — Katarina Smelikova
“Exceeded my expectations — clarified and deepened my understanding of my creative passions.” — Markeeta Culley
“Working out my Creative Life Purpose completely changed my direction. I’m doing more of what I love, and less of what I felt obligated to do.” – Kim Fawcett
“I’ve done several workshops over the past five years, and these are the most detailed and comprehensive notes and eBooks I’ve received.”
— John Tathem
Your Bonus Digital Library
Bonus Value
$395 Included Free
Your Creative Toolbox for Life. Included free in this two day event.
Unlock 15 eBooks and companion videos, valued at $395, packed with tips, techniques, and inspiration. Enjoy
free updates for life to keep your creativity growing.
Complete Workshop Investment
$1,500 INC GST. – Digital Library included free
Limited to 16 Photographers
Everything You Get
Your Complete Workshop Package
THREE Full Days of Immersion
Detailed studio sessions and field photography with Steve and Micelle
Complete Photography Masterclass
Steve’s self paced online course (valued at $295)
2 Hour Follow up Zoom
Group session with Steve for personal image review.
Travel Guide eBook Series
8 State and Territory eBooks with accompanying videos (valued at $95)
Lifetime Updates
Free updates to all course materials and resources forever
Lifetime Community Access
Access to the Masterclass and community continues for as long as the program is actively maintained.
Our Venues for the Weekend
The Art of Seeing Art is based at Tranquil Park, Maleny, overlooking the spectacular Glass House Mountains in the heart of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland with arguably the best views on the Sunshine Coast.
Throughout the workshop you’ll photograph across a variety of inspiring environments, including the flora- and fauna-rich rainforest at Mary Cairncross Reserve, the dramatic waterfalls of Gardners Falls and Tranquil Park’s own panoramic viewpoints, allowing you to explore everything from intimate forest details to expansive landscape vistas.
Accommodation is available at Tranquil Park for participants wishing to stay on site, with barista coffee and refreshments provided during workshop sessions, with lunch options available for purchase.
Everything You Need to Know
What skill level is this workshop for?
This workshop is for photographers who are comfortable using their camera and are ready to move beyond technique into stronger vision, personal expression, and creative purpose.
You don’t need to have everything technically mastered. Camera use and post-processing are explored in context, so technology supports your creative intent rather than getting in the way.
It’s best suited to passionate hobbyists and working photographers who want their images to feel more personal, meaningful, and emotionally connected.
If you’re completely new to photography or still learning the basics of camera operation, this workshop may feel overwhelming.
If you’re unsure whether it’s the right fit for you, you’re very welcome to check in with Steve at [email protected] before booking — a brief conversation can help clarify expectations.
When do I receive access to the bonus Masterclass and Travel Guides?
Access to the bonus Masterclass downloads and Travel Guides is provided during the workshop (Saturday morning).
What camera gear should I bring?
Bring your main camera body, a versatile zoom lens (24 to 70mm or similar), and a telephoto if you have one for wildlife opportunities. A tripod is recommended for the waterfall and low light sessions. Don’t forget spare batteries, memory cards, and a laptop if you’d like to participate in the editing sessions with your own images.
Is accommodation included?
Accommodation is not included in the workshop fee. However, Tranquil Park Maleny offers on-site accommodation — ask for “the photographers’ rooms” for the best views. There are also many other accommodation options in the Maleny area.
For those staying locally, there’s usually a relaxed opportunity for social catch-ups during the evenings.
What about meals?
Morning tea and afternoon tea (including barista coffee) are provided both days. Bring your own lunch or pre order from the Tranquil Park Cafe. Discuss: On Saturday evening, you’re welcome to join Steve and Michelle for an optional drink and dinner on the balcony (not included in the event cost).
Why are there only 16 spots?
We intentionally keep the group small to ensure every participant receives personal attention. This intimate setting allows for meaningful feedback on your images, genuine conversations about your creative journey, and a supportive environment where everyone can learn and grow together.
What is the refund policy?
Full refunds are available for cancellations made more than 30 days before the workshop start date. For cancellations made between 30 and 14 days before the workshop, a 50% refund will be provided. For cancellations made within 14 days of the workshop start date, refunds cannot be offered. However, you are welcome to transfer your place to another person (subject to notification). In the unlikely event that Nature Connect cancels the workshop, a full refund will be issued. Refunds (where applicable) will be processed within 7–10 business days after the workshop concludes.
What about bad weather?
We go ahead. Rain and overcast conditions are often ideal for forest photography — softer light, richer colour, and a fresher landscape. If it’s unsafe or unpleasant outdoors, we’ll adapt quickly: sheltered locations, short weather windows, and more time inside for image review, editing, and discussion. Please bring a rain cover for your camera and suitable wet-weather clothing.
How do I get to Maleny?
Maleny is approximately 1.5 hours drive from Brisbane and 30 minutes from the Sunshine Coast. The nearest airport is Sunshine Coast Airport (Maroochydore). We recommend hiring a car for the flexibility to explore the beautiful hinterland region before or after the workshop.
Your Transformation Awaits
Join Steve Parish for three unforgettable days that will forever change how you see and capture the world around you.
Date
June 6 – 8, 2026
Location
Maleny, QLD
Investment
$1,500 inc. GST
