About John Armytage
Port Macquarie Landscape Photographer | Small-Group Photography Workshops
Hi, I’m John.
I’m based in beautiful Port Macquarie on the Mid North Coast of NSW — and I help photographers experience incredible locations across Australia, New Zealand and Japan… without the pressure, rush, or exhaustion that often comes with traditional workshops.
Because photography should be something you enjoy — not something you recover from.
A Different Way to Experience Photography
After years of running photography workshops, I started noticing something…
Most photographers still love landscape photography — they just don’t love what some workshops have become.
Long days. Big distances. Constant rushing. Trying to “keep up” instead of actually enjoying the moment.
And I get it — because I’ve been there too. At some point, photography shifts…
It becomes less about pushing yourself and more about experiencing the places you’re in.
That’s when I decided to change things.
Who These Workshops Are Designed For
Most of my workshops are designed with photographers over 50 in mind.
Not because of age… but because of how you want to experience photography.
At some point, it’s no longer about pushing yourself physically just to get the shot.
It’s about:
• Enjoying the location
• Taking your time with composition
• Learning at a relaxed pace
• And actually enjoying the whole experience
That’s the style of workshop I run.
But You’re Absolutely Welcome (No Matter Your Age)
You don’t have to be over 50 to join.
If you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed, premium photography experience — you’ll fit right in.
We still carry our gear… we still get to incredible locations… we just do it in a way that’s enjoyable and sustainable.
A Thoughtful Approach to Each Location
Most locations are easily accessible with minimal trekking.
There are a few exceptions — like Hooker Lake in New Zealand — which is one of the most incredible locations we shoot.
For those who want to do the walk, we absolutely plan for it. And for those who don’t — there is always a Plan B option,
so you’re never missing out on a great photography experience.
The Goal
To create workshops where you can:
• Capture powerful images
• Learn and improve your photography
• Travel comfortably
• And genuinely enjoy every part of the journey
Small Groups. Better Experience. Stronger Images.
Today, I run small-group landscape photography workshops (max 6 guests) designed for a completely different experience.
You’ll still carry your gear —
but you won’t be hiking kilometres just to get a shot.
Instead, we focus on:
• Being in the right place at the right time
• Working with great light
• Slowing down and refining composition
• Learning in a relaxed, supportive environment
And yes… having a good laugh along the way.
A Workshop That Actually Feels Enjoyable
One thing guests often say after a workshop is:
“I didn’t expect it to be this enjoyable.”
And that matters to me.
Before photography, I spent many years doing stand-up comedy — so creating a relaxed, welcoming, and fun environment comes naturally.
No egos. No pressure. No intimidation.
Just a great group of like-minded photographers,
learning, shooting, sharing stories… and enjoying the whole experience.
Because the best trips aren’t just about the photos — they’re about how you felt while you were there.
Built on Community & Experience
Alongside running workshops, I was the founder of Focus Australia Landscape Photography Group — one of Australia’s most engaged photography communities.
Become a Focus Plus Member to save $$$ on our Workshop Tours
Over 9 years, we grew to more than 8,000 photographers nationwide.
That experience taught me something important:
People don’t just want better photos — they want connection, support, and a sense of belonging.
That same approach is what I bring into every workshop I run today.
Incredible Locations — Without the Rush
My workshops take you to carefully selected locations across:
• New Zealand
• Japan
• Western Australia
• Port Stephens
• Mid North Coast NSW
• South West Rocks, Crescent Head & Port Macquarie
• Merriwa NSW (Canola & Superman Barn)
• Norfolk Island
• 4 Wheel Drive Workshops - We drive you to locations that you normally could not get to.
and more being worked on…
Each workshop is designed to balance:
Photography • Learning • Lifestyle
With comfortable accommodation, great food, and time to actually enjoy where you are.
Why Photographers Keep Coming Back
Many guests return on multiple workshops — and I’m incredibly grateful for that.
My goal is simple:
To help you create stronger images…
while enjoying some of the most beautiful locations in the world.
📍 Based in Port Macquarie, NSW
Leading Over 50’s Landscape Photography Workshops across Australia, New Zealand and Japan & Norfolk Island.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed, premium photography experience —
I’d love to have you join us.
👉 View Upcoming Photography Workshops
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What Guests Say
“Highly recommend John and his workshops.
He’s incredibly well organised, deeply knowledgeable, and very generous in sharing what he knows. No matter your level of photography, you’ll walk away having learned something new and feeling inspired.
I’ve been on a lot of photography trips — and this was hands down the best.
And he knows all the best places to eat too!”
— Renee McGrath