AU NZ

Events, photo walks, talks from the masters, in-depth workshops. Expand your horizons with one of our many events across Australia.

Starting Never Ends is the one place for all Sony camera mini-sites. Learn about all new Sony camera products in a fun interactive way.

Events, photo walks, talks from the masters, in-depth workshops. Expand your horizons with one of our many events across Australia.

Starting Never Ends is the one place for all Sony camera mini-sites. Learn about all new Sony camera products in a fun interactive way.

AU NZ
Italy 2026: Two days of styled shoots & wedding photography

About the event

PLEASE NOTE: There is a $700 AUD non-refundable retainer due to secure your position. The full cost of each day is $2500 AUD.  Please see the pricing section below for additional balance payment details before booking.

Join a incredible 2 day photography workshop in the heart of beautiful Italian architecture, romance and stunning landscapes. This is your chance to shoot destination wedding elopement photography that is luxe, modern and refined.
 

Limited to 12 ameture to professional photographers, content creators or videographers this intimate experience blends education, creativity, and community.

Learn from Sony Advocate Shae Estella with a pre-workshop online session focused on techniques, creativity, and business growth utilising the 2 days shooting. Connect with like-minded photographers, build lasting friendships, and leave inspired to take your skills to the next level.

Spaces are limited to 12 photographers each day - don’t miss this unique opportunity!

 

DAY 1 - TUESDAY 28th April 2026 -  VILLA DI STRIANO, FLORENCE ITALY

Step into the elegance of Villa di Striano - an exclusive Tuscan villa reserved just for our workshop. Over one unforgettable day, you’ll create imagery that blends timeless romance with modern editorial style, giving you a portfolio that speaks directly to your dream destination clients.

Imagine a couple bathed in golden light, wandering through English-inspired Tuscan gardens. Chic, fashion-forward portraits set against the grandeur of a historic villa. Wedding scenes styled with luxury and intention—crafted to elevate your artistry, refine your posing, and showcase the kind of work that sets you apart.

DATE & TIME: Tuesday 28th April, 2026
11:00 - Arrive at Villa Di Striano
11:15 - Welcome Session with Shae
11:45 - Flat lay & Detail + Bride & Groom Getting ready photos
13:00 - Ceremony Site Detail Photos + Branding / Social Media Time for participants / Drone opportunity
13:30 - Ceremony Portraits on site
14:30 - Break & Network (Lunch)
15:00 - Portraits around grounds (3 areas)
16:00 - Reception Detail Shots
16:45 - Reception Photos with models
17:15 - Sunset Portraits
18:00 - Finish

Villa Di Striano is located 1 hour drive north of Florence near the town of Borgo San Lorenzo.

 

DAY 2 - THURSDAY 30th April 2026 -  CASTELLO TORRE ALFINA, LAZIO, ITALY

Step into the timeless allure of Castello Torre Alfina - an exclusive opportunity to create the kind of portfolio imagery you’ve always dreamed of. For this workshop, the castle opens its doors solely to us, offering a rare chance to capture grand, one of a kind scenes steeped in history and romance.

Imagine an elegant couple bathed in golden light, strolling through centuries-old Italian gardens. Editorial-style portraits framed by the majesty of a medieval castle. Luxurious, thoughtfully styled wedding settings designed to inspire your creativity, elevate your portfolio, and attract the destination clients you’ve been waiting for.

DATE & TIME: Thursday 30th April, 2026

10:30 – Arrive at Castello Torre Alfina
10:45 – Welcome Session with Shae
1115 – Flatlay and Bride & Groom Getting ready photos
12:30 – Flat lay & Detail Shots of dress / suit + Bride + Groom Getting ready photos
1:30 – Ceremony Site Detail Photos
1400 – Break & Network (Lunch)
1430 – Models inside portraits
1500 – Ceremony Portraits
16:00 – Portraits around grounds (3 areas)
17:00 Afternoon Reception Photos with models
18:00 – Conclude

Castello Torre Alfina is located 2 hours 20 minutes South from Florence or 2 hours drive north of Rome.

What's Included What's Not Included
  • Exclusive access to the magnificent Villa Striano, Florence and Castello Torre Alfina, on the border of Lazio and Tuscany with Shae Estella.
  • A 1.5 hour online Planning Session 2 weeks prior to prepare you to get the most out of the day.
  • Curated styled shoot including bride and groom prep, ceremony, reception setting and around the beautiful grounds of Castello Torre Alfina.
  • Small group setting of 12 photographers maximum with mentorship from Sony Advocate Shae Estella Photo on photography techniques.
  • Shoot styled by Tuscany and Rome’s top vendors and planners including makeup artists, hair stylists, florists, stationery and stylists.
  • Designer outfits to suit the modern, chic and romantic theme.
  • REAL MODEL COUPLE who are professional models so you can relax and capture them in authentic, natural posing that SELLS THE DREAM WEDDING.
 
  • Transport to the workshop locations: This includes flights, car hire, or any public transport to Villa Di Striano or Castello Torre Alfina. We highly encourage car pooling, and we’re happy to assist in connecting attendees to help organize shared transport arrangements.
  • Travel Insurance for individuals. We recommend you take out full comprehensive insurance for your trip.
  •  Personal Snacks and Drinks: While some meals are included, we recommend bringing your own favorite snacks and beverages to enjoy between sessions and during downtime.
  • Photography Equipment: Be sure to bring your own gear.

 

CONTENT SHOOTS

Over two unforgettable days, you’ll be immersed in hands-on wedding and portrait shoots styled by some of the industry’s best. From capturing editorial moments framed by ornate Italian architecture to photographing luxurious wedding concepts, every scene is crafted to deliver the kind of portfolio that books dream destination clients.

Guided personally by Shae, you’ll move through a variety of stunning setups - working with professional models as well as curated scenes designed for creativity and growth. Dedicated time is also built in for you to capture personal branding content and behind-the-scenes video, giving you powerful marketing material to position yourself as a destination wedding photographer.

This workshop is designed with one goal: to give you everything you need to elevate your craft and your business. With limited spots available, you’ll gain exclusive access to styled shoots, insider techniques, and an inspiring space to experiment, learn, and create extraordinary imagery that sets you apart.

 

EDUCATION SESSION

 

Before you even set foot in Italy, you’ll be invited to an exclusive 1.5-hour online education session with Shae. In this session, she’ll walk you through the workshop plan, recommended camera settings for each scene, and strategies to maximise your experience. You’ll learn how to not only refine your skills but also market your new portfolio work to attract bookings and spotlight your wedding photography business.

 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

  • The workshops will occur on the 28th and 30th of April 2026. A day in between has been intentionally left for your own free time and travel to Castello Torre Alfina. 

Pricing and Payment Schedule


FULL PRICING: AUD $2500 per day or AUD $4700 if you book both days ($300 discount). 

Deposit due to book: AUD $700
Balance Payment: 30th March, 2026.

THIS WILL SELL OUT QUICKLY and is open to international workshop attendees. 

Once you pay your deposit, you will be contacted and invoiced by Shae Estella at The Artful Muse for this event. Please supply your email to info@shaeestellaphoto.com should you not hear from us.Please note: The deposit is NON-REFUNDABLE due to change of mind, cancellation.

 

Techniques covered

Wedding photography 
Portrait photography
Destination Weddings
Wedding Photography business 
Artistic portrait photography

What to bring

Full comprehensive list supplied on booking.

Event FAQs (For general FAQs, please visit the Frequently Asked Questions page)

Yes a light lunch is provided each day.
A full comprehensive list will be sent to attendees who have booked.
Yes on site in each venue.
MOBILITY: Expect physical movement similar to shooting destination weddings in Italian terraine. This includes walking on inclines, declines, uneven ground, rocky paths, and stairs. To fully enjoy and participate in the retreat, ensure you are comfortable with this level of activity.
Knowledge of how to use your camera equipment is important.
Yes please contact Shae on info@shaeestellaphoto.com
Deposit to secure your spot is $700 with the balance due on the 30th March, 2026. See full pricing in description. REFUNDS: If you’ve paid the deposit or full amount but need to cancel, we regret that we are unable to offer a refund. However, your ticket is fully transferable, meaning you can arrange for someone else to attend in your place.

A$700 deposit payable via Sony Scene to secure a spot.
Balance Due Date: 30/03/2026

Payment for the remaining balance should be made directly to the host. They will be in contact with you shortly to provide the payment details and further instructions.

Advocate

Shae Estella

Shae Estella is an internationally acclaimed wedding & portrait photographer based on the East Coast of Australia. Whilst Shae calls the Sunshine Coast home...

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Fabulous event. Shae taught us so many different techniques and shared heaps of tips. Exceeded my expectations and gave me more confidence. Value +”

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This is the second event I’ve done with Shae and I’m incredibly impressed. The confidence, education and content I have now is amazing ”

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