This is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of contemporary photographic portraiture with an in-depth look at Shea’s personal practice, sharing his passion as you are guided through the steps to create a portrait.
Focusing on the slow and intentional process inherent to large format photography, learn about what’s involved – from loading film to making the final exposure – as Shea breaks down the physics, and how to work with these cameras, into simple steps.
Suitable for all levels of knowledge and experience, from those who have never picked up a camera before, to those who already shoot film and are curious about using large format cameras.
All materials, tea, coffee and light refreshments supplied. Please BYO lunch and a phone with camera. This workshop is designed for adults (ages 18+).
This is a FREE workshop sponsored by the National Gallery of Australia as part of the Bowness Photography Touring Program.
About the Artist:
Incorporating traditional photographic methods and techniques into a contemporary practice, Shea Kirk is interested in intentional portraiture, portraiture as a conscious and thoughtful act. This has fueled him to continue with his ongoing stereoscopic portrait series Vantages, now in its eighth year. For the project Shea invites people into his home studio, or makeshift studios while on the road, to be photographed using a dual large format camera.
His work is held in both private and public collections, has been selected for numerous prizes including winning National Photographic Portrait Prize 2023, Director’s Choice and Highly Commended Olive Cotton Award 2025, and exhibited at galleries including National Gallery Victoria, Centre for Contemporary Photography and Museum of Australian Photography.
Image credits (gallery below):
1. Jack Mannix (left and right view) 2024 from Vantages Shea Kirk
2. Poppy Paraw (right view) 2020 from Vantages Shea Kirk
3. Self Portrait 2023 Shea Kirk
4. Shea Kirk Studio Workshop by Emma Holder
5. Group - Latrobe Workshop by Andrew Korlaki
6. Shea Kirk - Latrobe Workshop by Andrew Korlaki
7. Group Outside - Latrobe Workshop by Andrew Korlaki
8. Group in Window - Latrobe Workshop by Juan Rodriguez Sandoval
