"Thank you so much for the awesome experience of taking your photography course! It taught me a lot that I didn’t know about cameras and photography before coming!"
23 SEPTEMBER 2023
11 am - 1 pm
Young Learners Nature Photography Workshop
In partnership with IMAgEN8, our workshops are designed for students aged 8–18 with the goal to spark creativity and a deeper connection with nature. These hands-on workshops will motivate kids to create meaningful, captivating photographs while learning the basics of photography and the importance of protecting the world around us.
In partnership between


Inspiring the next generation of photographers
At Excio and IMAgEN8, we believe that photography has the power to inform, inspire, and create change.
With recent research indicating that only 0.9% of students in this age group consider pursuing a career in photography, Excio is committed to nurturing the next generation of talented photographers and storytellers.
In addition, our young generation is disconnected from their natural environment and increasingly anxious, in large part from technology over-use. Mental well-being in our youth is on the decline, alongside our planet's health. Biodiversity impacts due to habitat loss, extreme weather events, and climate change are inextricably linked to our daily lives.
During the workshop, participants will learn about the importance of photography and the power of visual storytelling, while connecting with nature and developing practical skills for capturing captivating photographs.
Every student will receive personalised attention and guidance from our professional instructors.
Location
The workshop will be held at Riddiford Gardens, Lower Hutt.
Cost
Places are limited to make sure everyone receives the maximum benefit from the course.
Hurry and reserve your spot!
$57.50 (incl. GST)
A GST invoice will be provided once the payment is made. Spaces are reserved on a first-come first-served basis.
We're all about ensuring every kid gets a shot! If cash is tight, you can apply for sponsorship by sending us an email to hello@excio.io.
On the flip side, if you're feeling generous and want to make a difference, you can also sponsor a child, maybe even someone you know or from your own community.
Registration for our September workshop is now closed. Please click the button below to join the waitlist. You'll be notified when the next workshop becomes available.
JOIN THE WAITLISTWhat’s involved?
Basics of photography
We start by introducing the fundamentals of working with camera and immersing ourselves in the realm of photography, examining its importance in preserving our nature.
Practice and group activities
Students take photographs using professional gear (bring their own or provided) and work on the exciting and fun assignments, concentrating on crucial themes like nature conservation and diversity.
This hands-on approach helps participants to develop skills, build confidence, and create meaningful work.
About us
Excio
At Excio (Latin: excite, evoke) we are passionate about helping young photographers grow, create powerful visual stories, and forge lifelong connections with like-minded peers.
As part of the workshop, each student receives a complimentary Excio one-year membership, enabling them to build a public portfolio and exhibit their work online.
IMAgEN8
IMAgEN8 is a registered charity whose purpose is to foster sustainable connections with New Zealand's natural environment in our diverse communities through education, photography and technology.







Credits (top to bottom, left to right): Kavisha Kanagasooriyam (age 10, Epsom Normal Primary School), George Grove (age 10, Churchill Park School), Jessica Olsen (age 11, St Cuthbert's College), IMAgEN8, Shafeek Allie (age 16, Pinehurst School), Abigail Cullinan (age 11, Glendowie School).
Inspired learners

“[Our daughter] learnt a lot and enjoyed the experience so we’ve signed her up again for the next session.”
“Chris enjoyed the course and said he learnt a lot of things like the golden ratio. He does art at school and so these skills will be useful there.”
Our tutors
All our tutors have undergone criminal-background checks and are fully vaccinated to ensure a safe and secure learning environment.
Ana Lyubich, Excio
Ana is a lifestyle photographer and is the Chief Captivator (CEO) of Excio, which she co-founded in 2017. She believes that each photograph is unique and reflects an individual’s personality.
In this workshop, Ana explains the essentials of photography and works with students to develop their own style and build their first public photo portfolios.
Tushar Sharma, IMAgEN8
Tushar Sharma is a nature photographer, author, educator and conservationist. IMAgEN8 was born out of his love of nature and his desire to deepen people's love and connection with our natural environment, improve mental wellbeing, foster sustainable living encourage kaitiakitanga, and bring joy.
He has published 13 books - six of his photography and writings and seven for IMAgEN8.