Horse Head Rock is one of the oldest rock formations in New South Wales — over 500 million years old, predating most life on Earth. The distinctive shape (which gives it its name) is best visible from a specific angle on the beach approach, accessible only at low tide and on calm seas. The workshop times the Horse Head Rock session to coincide with the optimal tide window for both the elevated lookout and the beach-level scramble. Sunrise and golden hour are both worked here depending on conditions.

Camel Rock sits 200 metres up the beach from Horse Head Rock and offers one of the strongest standalone seascape compositions on the entire NSW coast. The 1.5 kilometre elevated walking track between Camel Rock and Murunna Point gives access to multiple compositional viewpoints across the Sapphire coastline. Wide-angle work for the cliff scenes, mid-range for the rock isolation shots.

This location is where Australian fur seals can often be seen resting and playing on the rocks just offshore from the town’s breakwall. The area is well known for its easy access, allowing visitors to watch the seals from land as they sunbathe, swim, and interact in the clear waters of Wagonga Inlet and the surrounding ocean. It’s a unique wildlife experience because the seals frequently come very close to shore, making them visible without needing a boat tour.

Glasshouse Rocks is known for its dramatic sea stacks, layered rock formations, and reflective tidal platforms that work beautifully in both moody weather and soft coastal light. The location is especially rewarding at low tide, when textures, leading lines, and long-exposure movement create some of the region’s most striking coastal compositions.

Mystery Bay is the lesser-known counterpoint to Glasshouse Rocks — quieter, more compositionally diverse, with rock pools, reefs, and sweeping bay views. Sam has photographed this location for more than a decade and works it on the days when conditions don't quite align for Horse Head Rock or Glasshouse. Often produces some of the workshop's most distinctive frames simply because it is less photographed.

"Sam was knowledgeable, approachable, and always willing to help. I learned a lot, not just about technique but also about creative approaches to photography. The hands-on practice and location choices made it even more valuable.”

"The small and bespoke group size allowed Sam to really tailor his expertise to the skill set and level of each participant. The dynamics of the workshop fostered a positive learning environment and Sam's teaching style was easy to follow and his techniques refreshingly simple."

"If you're looking for an inspiring and knowledgeable photography experience, look no further than Sam. He creates a comfortable and supportive environment that allows you to tap into your full potential as an artist."

"Such a wonderful immersive workshop, exceeded my expectations. Sam your patience and care to each of us is a true reflection of your love of photography — a gift that you willingly share."

"Absolutely outstanding. Samuel is an incredibly knowledgeable and approachable instructor. He effortlessly demystifies the complexities of photography jargon. I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone, regardless of their experience level."