About Us.
Growing from an idea conceived in the great lockdowns of 2021, and finally finding a home in 2023, Kindred Cameras was created as a way to give photographers a place to make work (that wouldn’t break the bank) and share photographic knowledge with Melbourne creative community.
Our Docklands location is a multi-use creative space, featuring photography studios, art gallery and other photographic facilities. We run photography courses onsite and through partner organisations around Victoria.
Our classes are designed to suit those of all skill levels and focus on a pick-and-choose style of educational experience. They are taught by experienced professionals in an encouraging and supportive environment, with small class sizes to maximise value for students. We don’t offer fancy degrees, diplomas or certificates, but we do offer a place to create amazing images and connect with like-minded people who have a passion for creativity.
Our Team
Chris Bowes
Chris Bowes is a photographer, artist and educator who left his hometown of Brisbane for the greener pastures of Melbourne back in 2017. Chris lives and breathes photography in both his personal and professional life, including teaching at RMIT and previously running the educational program at Michaels Cameras.
Heading the educational arm of Kindred Cameras, Chris believes in a hands-on learning environment where students can practice skills in real world scenarios. Known to keep his classes fun and casual, Chris ensures all his students fully understand the processes they are being taught so they can walk away from class with an SD card full of great images and a database of photographic knowledge.
See some of Chris’ work at chrisbowes.com.au
Jade Richards-Butler
Jade Richards-Butler is a lens-based artist, arts administrator and the co-founder of Kindred Cameras. Jade is passionate about art and education, and throughout her career has run kid-friendly art classes while also working behind the scenes in several art galleries and photographic institutions.
Along with helping Chris teach classes, Jade handles the administrative side of Kindred Cameras, a job that Chris doesn’t envy. She’s enthusiastic about making Kindred Cameras an inclusive environment for people of all walks of life to enjoy the wonders of photography and video.