Landscape, Seascape & Astrophotography Courses | Noosa, Coolum, Borumba Dam & Glass House Mountains
The Sunshine Coast in Queensland is a photographer's dream, blending iconic coastal sunrises, majestic hinterland vistas, and pristine astrophotography locations. Whether you're chasing golden sunrises, dramatic long exposures, or star-filled skies, the Sunshine Coast delivers year-round.
I’m Dylan Knight, an award-winning photographer with nearly a decade of experience, certified by the Professional Photographers' Association of Queensland (CCP). This guide is your definitive resource for discovering why the Sunshine Coast is a top photography destination and how my workshops can elevate your craft—whether you’re local, interstate, or international.
🌅 Why the Sunshine Coast is a Photographer’s Paradise
The Sunshine Coast uniquely combines diverse terrains within close proximity, offering:
Iconic Sunrise Spots: Point Cartwright, Coolum Beach, Noosa National Park
Dramatic Hinterland Scenes: Glass House Mountains, One Tree Hill (Maleny)
Pristine Dark-Sky Locations: Borumba Dam (perfect for Milky Way photography)
Waterfalls & Rainforests: Kondalilla Falls, Buderim Forest (ideal after rain)
Consistently good light, minimal crowds, and diverse landscapes make this region an unbeatable photographic playground.
📷 What You’ll Master in My Photography Workshops
Every workshop builds both confidence and creativity, tailored to your experience level:
🌊 Seascape & Landscape Photography
Master foreground composition and leading lines
Capture compelling sunrise and sunset scenes
Learn long exposure techniques with ND filters
Safely shoot dynamic wave action and tide interactions
✨ Astrophotography & Night Sky Mastery
Expertly photograph the Milky Way and star trails
Use trackers for long exposures and stacking methods
Blend foreground elements seamlessly into starry skies
Optimize camera settings for low-light conditions
🖥 Post-Processing in Lightroom & Photoshop
Comprehensive editing workflows (exposure, color, sharpening)
Noise reduction and advanced blending techniques
Personalized editing sessions available online or in-person
🗓 Workshop Types: Private, Single-Day & Multiday
✅ Private 1-on-1 Workshops
Price: From $149 (1-hour) to $295+ (full-day)
Perfect For: Customised guidance, flexible scheduling, accelerated learning
✅ Single-Day Group Workshops
Price: $150–$250 per person
Perfect For: Quick skills upgrade, specific location mastery (sunrise, sunset, astro)
✅ Multiday Workshop Retreats
Price: From AU$1,650 (3-day) up to AU$6,950 (5-day luxury retreats)
Locations: Sunshine Coast, Uluru, Cradle Mountain, Kimberleys
Perfect For: Full immersion, advanced techniques, portfolio-building
📍 The Best Photography Locations on the Sunshine Coast
🌴 Noosa National Park Photography
Best Time: Sunrise, early golden hour
Why Visit: Rugged coastal landscapes, pandanus-lined beaches, turquoise waters
Perfect for seascape composition and sunrise photography.
🌊 Coolum Beach & Headland
Best Time: Sunrise, golden hour, afternoon pastels
Why Visit: Dramatic rocks, long-exposure opportunities, pastel skies
Excellent for mastering water motion and shutter speed.
🌳 One Tree Hill (Maleny)
Best Time: Astro photography, sunrise fog
Why Visit: Iconic minimalist compositions, atmospheric layers
Ideal for starry skies and ethereal sunrise imagery.
🌌 Borumba Dam Astrophotography
Best Time: Astro season (April–August), late blue hour
Why Visit: Low light pollution, reflective lake surfaces, pristine Milky Way
Unmatched for astro-photography practice.
🌅 Point Cartwright Seascapes
Best Time: Sunrise low-tide, dramatic astro
Why Visit: Textured rock shelves, wave dynamics, lighthouse compositions
Perfect for dynamic seascape training.
⛰ Glass House Mountains
Best Time: Foggy sunrise, sunset silhouettes
Why Visit: Iconic volcanic peaks, dramatic layered compositions
Ideal for drone and telephoto compression shots.
📆 Seasonal Guide: Best Times for Photography
| Season | Best For | Photography Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Dec–Feb) | Seascapes | Warm sunrise colors, dramatic cloud build-ups |
| Autumn (Mar–May) | Astro + Sunrise | Clear skies, early Milky Way, glassy reflections |
| Winter (Jun–Aug) | Astro | Optimal Milky Way visibility, crisp conditions |
| Spring (Sep–Nov) | Variety | Thunderstorms, wildflowers, late Milky Way |
Pro Tip: Schedule astro sessions in late autumn/winter for best star visibility.
🎒 Essential Gear Recommendations
Camera Bodies
DSLR/Mirrorless with manual mode (e.g., Nikon Z8, Z6II, D850)
Recommended Lenses
Wide (14–24mm f/2.8): Seascapes, astro
Standard Zoom (24–70mm): General landscapes
Telephoto (70–200mm): Hinterland compression, details
Filters (Essential)
ND filters (long exposures)
Graduated ND (sunrise/sunset)
CPL (reduce glare/reflections)
Astro Gear
Star tracker (optional but beneficial)
Sturdy tripod, red headlamp, extra batteries
Dew heater or hand warmers for cold nights
❓ FAQs
Q: Are workshops beginner-friendly?
Yes, all workshops are tailored from beginner to advanced photographers.
Q: Do I need expensive gear?
No, any camera with manual control is suitable; guidance is tailored to your existing kit.
Q: What’s your cancellation/rescheduling policy?
Flexible—weather-based reschedules or full credit given; your investment is safe.
Q: Is there significant walking involved?
Minimal—most locations are within short walks from parking areas.
Q: Can I book private online editing sessions?
Yes, I offer personalized Lightroom & Photoshop coaching via Teams.
📅 How to Book & Next Steps
Spaces are limited—early booking is strongly recommended.
Ready to Capture Incredible Images?
Experience hands-on photography workshops tailored to your skill level, with personal guidance from an accredited local photographer. Create unforgettable photos while discovering the Sunshine Coast’s most breathtaking locations.
👉 Book Your Sunshine Coast Photography Workshop Now
Early-bird discounts and gift certificates available.
About Knighty’s Photography:
Dylan Knight is a CCP-certified, award-winning photographer with nearly 10 years of experience running landscape and astrophotography workshops across Queensland. Comprehensive liability insurance up to AU$20 million ensures peace of mind, and participants receive exclusive reseller discounts on top photography brands.