Dandenong Ranges Open Studios
Experience Real Photography
Welcome to my little creative corner of the hills. In 2026, Gorak Photo is officially part of Dandenong Ranges Open Studios, and I couldn’t be more excited to open the doors, load the film, and welcome you into the world I make inside Loop Art & Photo Space in Olinda.
This is your chance to step inside a working darkroom, see real film photography in action, and experience the slower, more intentional way I approach portraits and place-making in the Dandenong Ranges.
What to expect
Across the two weekends of Dandenong Ranges Open Studios 2026, Loop Art & Photo Space becomes a working studio, classroom, and gallery — all at once.
Here’s exactly what’s on.
Photography Exhibition
Throughout both weekends, the gallery wall at Loop Art & Photo Space will feature a members-only group exhibition.
Expect:
- Professionally printed and framed photographs
- A wide mix of styles, voices, and experience levels
- A genuine snapshot of the Loop creative community
This exhibition is open to all visitors during Open Studios.
Weekend One
21 & 22 March 2026
Saturday 21 March – Members’ Exhibition
Enjoy photographs from the Loop Members
Sunday 22 March — Digital Photography for Beginners
Two separate beginner workshops
These relaxed, practical sessions are designed for people who want to:
- Finally understand how their camera works
- Move beyond Auto mode
- Learn exposure, light, and composition without jargon
Perfect for first-time photographers, hobbyists, and anyone who’s been meaning to “really learn photography” for years.
When:
Sunday 22nd of March, 2026
Start Time:
10:00 – 10:45am
11:00 – 11:45am
Weekend Two
28 & 29 March 2026
Saturday 28 March — Digital Photography for Beginners
Two separate beginner workshops
Missed out the first weekend? No stress. These sessions cover the same beginner-friendly fundamentals, taught in a calm, confidence-boosting way.
Bring your camera, your questions, and zero expectations of perfection.
When:
Saturday 28th of March, 2026
Start Time:
10:00 – 10:45am
11:00 – 11:45am
Sunday 29 March — Portrait Photography Workshop
2-hour focused workshop
This session is all about photographing people — properly.
We’ll cover:
- Working with natural and studio light
- Directing and connecting with your subject
- Creating portraits that feel human, not stiff
Ideal for photographers ready to move beyond technical basics and start making portraits with feeling and intention.
When:
Sunday 29th of March, 2026
Time:
10am – 12pm
About GorakPhoto
I’m Steve – photograph maker, darkroom nerd and the human behind Gorak Photo and Loop Art & Photo Space.
My work centres on human connection, quiet moments, and the magic of slowing down. I make real photographs with real people: an approach that favours presence over perfection.
I believe a portrait should feel like a collaboration, not a transaction. That philosophy runs through everything I do, from personal work to the classes and workshops I run at Loop.
Why visit Loop Art & Photo Space
If you love photography, creativity, community, or simply seeing how people make things with their hands, this stop is for you. It’s relaxed, playful, and intentionally welcoming. There’s no sales pitch. No pressure. Just art, conversation, and the joy of making photographs slowly.
