About the event
In collaboration with Sony Australia, join award-winning photographer and Sony Digital Imaging Advocate, Dylan Giannakopoulos, for a Wildlife Photography Workshop at Melbourne Zoo on Saturday 8th August 2026.
Melbourne Zoo is home to an incredible array of wildlife from around the world, offering endless photographic opportunities. From majestic big cats and playful primates to colourful birds, reptiles and even smiling quokkas, you'll learn techniques to photograph a diverse range of species in a variety of conditions and environments.
Before the workshop, you'll be invited to submit your preferred Sony camera and lens combinations. We'll do our best to match your selections (subject to availability), giving you the opportunity to experience Sony's latest and greatest Alpha cameras and E-mount lenses, including the new Sony Alpha 7R VI.
Participants will:
- Learn how to manipulate shutter speed, aperture and depth of field to elevate your wildlife photography.
- Understand how to use composition, light and timing to create stronger, more engaging images.
- Master key camera settings, autofocus modes and exposure techniques, including how to read and use your camera's histogram.
- Discover practical tips and techniques for photographing animals through glass and wire enclosures while minimising distractions.
Guests will also be invited to join a private Facebook group exclusively for past attendees of Dylan Gianna Photography workshops. The group provides a space to share images, ask questions and continue learning with ongoing tips and feedback from Dylan.
Please note that the workshop fee does not include general admission to Melbourne Zoo. Entry tickets must be purchased separately through Melbourne Zoo. We recommend waiting until 24 to 48 hours before the event in case the workshop is postponed in accordance with the wet weather policy below. https://www.zoo.org.au/melbourne/whats-on/events/entry/
WET WEATHER POLICY
In the event of heavily forecasted rain or a severe weather event, the decision to cancel or postpone the workshop due to weather conditions will be made 24-48 hours prior unless in extraordinary circumstances. All Dylan Gianna Photography events are subject to the following Terms and Conditions.
Images displayed were captured at Werribee Open Range Zoo.
Techniques covered
- Balancing the exposure triangle (ISO, aperture and shutter speed)
- Compositional rules and techniques
- Depth of Field
- Camera modes (manual and shutter priority)
- Basic camera settings and functions (continuous/ burst shooting, image stabilisation, white balance, RAW vs JPEG, etc.)
- Read and use the camera’s histogram
- Shooting through glass and wire fences
What to bring
- Camera
- A telephoto zoom lens with a minimum reach of 150 - 200mm (100 - 135mm APSC equiv.)
- Spare Memory cards and batteries
- Polarising Filter (optional)
- Lensskirt (optional)