Masterclass with Commercial & Fine Art Photographer Isamu Sawa

Join us for an inspiring live lighting demonstration session with Isamu Sawa, one of Australia’s leading commercial and fine art photographers, as he shares his personal studio techniques and creative approach to still life photography.

Born in Japan and raised in Australia, Isamu’s photography is grounded in precision, restraint, and refined visual storytelling—rooted in a Japanese-inspired philosophy that balances technical craft with creative exploration. His career spans almost three decades, with work featured in campaigns for renowned brands such as Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, Schweppes, David Jones, and National Australia Bank.

This masterclass is designed to provide Melbourne Camera Club members with unique, behind-the-scenes insight into how Isamu creates still-life imagery that resonates—whether for fine art or commercial use. From lighting hacks to composition techniques, you’ll come away with tools you can apply to your own studio work.

? What You’ll Learn:

• Going beyond the limitations of an obligatory softbox – by using diffusion gels to control light more creatively.
• Utilising a single direct light source to enhance micro details while creating drama and mood.
• Real-world insights from Isamu’s practice, including his acclaimed exhibition, “Without Water”, a macro study of flowers in decay utilising ‘focus stacking’ to maximise depth of field.

Whether you’re looking to push your still life work to the next level or gain new studio techniques from a master of the craft, this is a rare opportunity to learn from one of the best.