Concept to Portfolio 2026 Workshop

Concept to Portfolio is an engaging, 8-month course designed to guide you in creating a cohesive photography portfolio, from an initial concept to a refined collection of images. This supportive, mentored program is perfect for image-makers who would like to work in a structured way towards a developed body of work, with guidance from an experienced artist, the camaraderie of workshop peers, and ongoing support by photo access.

This year, the course will be mentored by Hilary Wardhaugh, a renowned Australian photographer whose work explores the complex relationship between humanity and the environment, often viewed through a feminist lens. Known for her introspective and activist-driven projects, Hilary’s work frequently challenges social and environmental issues, using photography to inspire change. She has been deeply engaged with photo access for many years and has recently had a stellar year in 2025, being a finalist in prestigious awards including the National Photographic Portrait Prize, Olive Cotton Prize, and Canberra Contemporary Photographic Prize, among others.

Hilary’s collaborative works, such as the #everydayclimatecrisis Visual Petition and Loud and Luminous (with Mel Anderson), have gained both national and global recognition. Her work has been collected by the National Library of Australia, and she has exhibited widely across the country. Hilary’s mentorship brings a rich blend of hands-on experience and academic insight, offering a space where participants can push their creative boundaries while remaining rooted in social and environmental awareness. Throughout the course, photo access staff will be available for any additional assistance needed.

With a blend of creative freedom and structure, Concept to Portfolio will meet regularly from April to November. You’ll develop your ideas alongside a group of like-minded peers, exchanging feedback and exploring artistic references. You’ll discover the ins and outs of working towards a body of work ready for exhibition, including developing a proposal, curating and producing your images, writing an artist statement, and sequencing a body of work. There is no pressure to conclude the course with a finalised body of work, rather this course is focused on supporting your journey and growth as an image-maker.

Concept to Portfolio is open to photographers of all skill levels who are familiar with the fundamentals of photography and comfortable with their chosen camera. It is also advisable to have some familiarity with editing software such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom. By the end, you’ll leave with new skills, a cohesive portfolio, and a network of creative connections.