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Learn With Chantel

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Learn With Chantel

Hi, I’m Chantel! 📸 Professional photographer, educator, and speaker with 10+ years’ experience. Hi, I’m Chantel! I also love a good chat!

I teach people to master their cameras and help women feel fabulous in photos with practical posing tips and tools. I’m a professional photographer, educator, and speaker with over a decade of experience, and I’ve made it my mission to help people feel confident behind and in front of the camera. I’ve had the privilege of seeing my work featured on the front cover of R.M. Williams OUTBACK Magazine

, displayed on billboards across Australia, and celebrated during my tour, which showcased the beauty of rural Australia from 2016 to 2020. As a photography coach since 2016, I’ve taught over 800 photographers in person and more than 3,000 online around the globe. Whether it’s helping beginners master their cameras or teaching the secrets to capturing the perfect shot, I’ve built a reputation for making photography simple, approachable, and empowering. This year, I’m expanding my focus to help women feel amazing in photos—not just through their lens, but in front of it. From posing guides and masterclasses to collaborations with other women-led businesses, I’m here to give you the tools to own your angles, document your story, and feel fabulous in every frame. Since 2016, I’ve been public speaking at photography and agricultural events, sharing my experiences, practical tips, and the occasional story that keeps everyone laughing (at my expense, usually). If you’re ready to master your camera, strike your best pose, or just start loving how you look in photos, you’re in the right place. Let’s capture some magic together!

28/11/2024

WHAT THE F IS F STOP?⁠
⁠
This has got to be one of the most confusing settings to get my head around when I was a beginner photographer and was self teaching. Sometimes I would figure it out…kinda….then I would forget what I thought it was. ⁠
⁠
Don’t google it! You will only end up more confused. Instead, here is the super simple explanation.⁠
⁠
F stop controls how much you have in focus (think blurred background on portraits) ⁠
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Small f stop number – small amount in focus ⁠
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Big f stop number – big amount in focus⁠
⁠
To blur your background, shoot on the smallest f stop available to you on the lens you are shooting on (this will be somewhere in the range of 1.8-4) and watch your photos look more professional! ⁠
⁠
Easily practise your f stop by shooting in the AV or non green a mode (if you are a Nikon shooter). You can play with your f stop in this mode and your camera will take care of the rest.⁠
⁠
So, before you go remember – small f stop gives you a small amount in focus x

12/11/2024

📸 Ready to capture beautiful, professional-looking portraits of your loved ones? Join me for a FREE Beginner Portraits Masterclass and let’s unlock all the secrets of stunning photography – no fancy gear required!

In just one hour, I’ll walk you through:
✨ The best camera settings for beginners
✨ How to blur your background for that pro look
✨ Getting groups in focus every time
✨ Finding and using natural light (it’s magic!)
✨ The essentials of camera gear (hint: you don’t need much)
✨ Focus techniques that make a world of difference

It’s everything you need to start capturing portraits you’ll love – and it’s FREE! Plus, if you can’t make it live, no worries. Register, and I’ll send you the replay, along with an exclusive offer just for those who sign up. 🎁

Seats are limited, so don’t miss out! Tap the link below to grab your spot now:

👉 https://learnwithchantel.mykajabi.com/bpmDec24

05/11/2024

How to instantly take pro photos in the golden hour.

Golden hour—the glorious time of day when everything feels like a scene from a nostalgic childhood movie, warm and glowy and oh-so-flattering. It’s that magical light that gives us flashbacks to freedom-filled summer evenings, bike rides, and sticky ice cream fingers. The thing is, while golden hour is ridiculously popular (and for good reason), it’s also a bit of a tricky minx to shoot in. But don’t worry, I’ve got you!

Here’s a little cheat sheet to get you started:
First off, know that you’ll need a little edit to get the light just right. Yes, even golden hour needs a touch of TLC in post to bring out its full magic. ✨

Camera Gear: Grab a portrait lens (anywhere from 35-85mm), set that f-stop to a smaller number to open up your lens, and let the light do a little dance around your frame. Hint: ditch the lens hood; we want that delicious flare to flood the frame, not hide from it! 📸

Backlighting for the Win: Position your subject with their back to the sun, and you, dear photographer, shoot into it. No more squinty faces looking into blinding light—just pure, soft backlit magic. ✨ Take one for the team and face the sun—it’s worth it, I promise.

Settings Time (let’s keep it simple):
* Aperture (f-stop): Go as low as your lens will go (we’re talking f/2.8, f/1.8... whatever you’ve got).
* ISO: Set it to 100—golden hour already has all the light you need, so keep that ISO low.
* Shutter Speed: Pop your camera into live view and start around 1/200. Adjust until the brightness is just right. Don’t fret if that number climbs up; it’s all about finding the right light.

Shooting in golden hour takes practice, patience, and a pinch of technical know-how. If you’re ready to really master it, I’ve got just the thing for you: the Golden Hour course and Intro to Editing course—both available in The Storytellers Academy 47 beginner photography course library!

Join the 800+ photographers learning with us, and yes, payment plans start at just $75!

Click on the link below to join before it’s gone for good x

https://learnwithchantel.mykajabi.com/tsapublicsaleoct24

03/11/2024

It's time to move on.

I get the itch every few years it seems to become a new version of myself. Right now I would say that I don’t just have an itch it’s an intense pull to find more purpose, fulfilment and meaning to my life and work.

What has brought this on? 2024.

I share a lot of my life on here from motherhood, dating and my struggles with my anxiety. It may seem like I have been a complete open book on my socials but there is still so many facets to my life that I have kept to myself.

This year personally has been challenging. It really hasn’t been great at all.

I have been forced to take on more than I ever wanted to and at the same time let go of people and parts of me that I thought were part of my own fabric and would never begin to fray.

Photography gives my life some meaning, it always has. I am so utterly head over heels in love with what photography gives to my life and how it has been able to help me build a life that I am proud to share with my son….. but…..

I need more.

Next year I am moving into a whole new industry. A place where I can embrace my nurturing side and make a difference in people’s lives in real time. I will be positively impacting this world with me skills, my personality and all that I have learnt and grown through over the last 40 years.

Learn With Chantel will still be here, it will just look a lot different. I have worked so hard to share the joy of photography with you all over the last 8 years and know that I can still help those that need it when it comes to finding themselves creatively.

The biggest changes is that I will be stepping back from my socials and will only offer a condensed version of my education. So, if you have been wanting to learn with me, please join me while my full suite is still on offer before big changes land here.

The Storytellers Academy will be closing down at the end of this year and taking the full 47 course library with it. From 2025, only 6-8 courses will be included, the rest will disappear into the nothingness.

I want to give you all plenty of heads up that this is closing down not as a marketing tactic but because I know how impactful this course library has been on the 800+ photographers who have already learnt with me in TSA and I still care for my community and don’t want you to miss out.

Your last chance to join is almost here – to get in before it closes down, please click on the link below.

https://learnwithchantel.mykajabi.com/tsapublicsaleoct24

31/10/2024

You never know when it is going to be the last photo you take of them with you.

I have never been one to hesitate to take a photo. Even if it means someone rolls their eyes at me because – here she goes again always taking photos….

As someone who feels deeply and has lived chapters of her life filled with great loss, I am acutely aware that endings don’t always let you know when they are here. They just arrive without warning. Without consideration.

Some photos I have of an ending I still can’t bring myself to look at. Some I keep knowing full well that they will never see the light of day again, stored in the back of my cupboard or in the depths of my computer library. But they are there, waiting and it’s a nice feeling to know that.

Being able to, not just take a happy snap but create photos that capture emotion, how you felt in that moment and press pause on a chapter that may or may not be on it’s last pages is something that I will never find the words for. It is pure magic. It gives meaning to something when all of it has slowly faded away. It allows something to remain unchanged, while everything around every moment after that photo does.

Take the photo. Learn how to capture chapters of your life properly so you can feel them later down the track (if you can or want to). We have been gifted with something so pure and purposeful when it comes to photography. If you feel this way too, don’t let your life and all of the moments and chapters fade around the edges into nothing.

10/09/2024

Free Photography Lesson? Yes, Please! 📸✨”

Imagine this—you, confidently snapping stunning photos with your camera, not a fluke in sight. Sounds dreamy, right? Well, dream no more because I’ve got a free masterclass that’ll get you there in no time.

Join me for Camera ABC’s on Wednesday, 11th September at 6pm AEST, where we’ll dive into the essentials:

Tired of those blurry action shots? I’ll teach you how to use shutter speed priority to freeze the action, so you never miss a moment.

Want that beautiful background blur in your portraits? Mastering your f-stop is the key, and I’ll show you how.

Need to brighten up your photos? Learn how to control ISO, so even the dullest day won’t stop you from capturing beautiful images.

No technical jargon, no fluff—just the good stuff to get you shooting like a pro.

Can’t make it live? No worries! Register now, and I’ll send you the replay straight after.

But hurry, love—this masterclass has already taught over 500 beginner photographers who couldn’t stop raving about it. Don’t miss your chance!

Last chance to join - it's all kicking off tomorrow night! Register here -

https://learnwithchantel.mykajabi.com/cameraabcsjune24

08/09/2024

500 Mums Have Already Taken This Free Masterclass—Will You Be Next?”

Mums, I see you—juggling kids, life, and trying to snap a decent photo in between. If you’re tired of those hit-or-miss shots, then you need to join me for Camera ABC’s on Wednesday, 11th September at 6pm AEST. It’s free, it’s quick, and it’s designed just for you.

In this 30-minute masterclass, I’ll teach you:

How to freeze those action-packed moments with shutter speed priority—say goodbye to blurry photos and hello to crystal-clear memories.

How to create gorgeous, blurred backgrounds in your portraits by mastering your f-stop—because who doesn’t want their photos to look pro?

How to brighten up your images using ISO—so your photos are always full of life, even in less-than-ideal lighting.

And don’t worry if you can’t make it live—register now, and I’ll send you the replay right after.

But here’s the thing—over 500 beginner photographers have already taken this class, and they couldn’t stop raving about it. So don’t miss out—secure your spot now before it’s too late!

https://learnwithchantel.mykajabi.com/cameraabcsjune24

07/09/2024

Here’s What Photographers Don’t Share, But You Need to Know 📸✨

Alright, photography enthusiasts, gather ’round! Let’s talk about the secrets that make the pros look, well, professional. These are the nuggets of wisdom I wish someone had told me when I started, and today, I’m spilling the tea just for you.

Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll learn in Beginners Blueprint:

Master Your Camera Settings: Say goodbye to auto mode, my friend. You’ll finally understand F-stop, ISO, and shutter speed so you can take full control and start shooting confidently in manual mode.

Nail Focus Every Time: Blurry photos? Not on my watch. You’ll learn how to get super sharp focus, so your subject is crystal clear, every single time.

Find the Best Light: Lighting is everything, darling! I’ll show you how to see and capture the best light to elevate your portraits from meh to magical.

Perfect Composition and Angles: Composition can make or break a shot. I’ll teach you how to frame your subjects and use angles that highlight your best features and create compelling images every time.

Set the Right Tones with White Balance: No more weird color casts in your photos. You’ll learn how to set the right tones with white balance so your images always look natural and true to life.

Edit Like a Pro: Let’s take your images from good to absolutely stunning with my simple editing techniques in Lightroom. You’ll be amazed at what a few tweaks can do!

Get Personalized Feedback: This isn’t just another online course where you’re left to figure it out on your own. You’ll get 1:1 photo feedback from me, plus constant support to make sure you’re never stuck or confused. Those little questions that pop up? I’m here to answer them all.

And here’s the best part: Beginners Blueprint is designed for time-poor, busy bees like you. You can learn at your own pace, in your own time, from the comfort of your own home. Everything you need to know is rolled into one comprehensive course, so you won’t need to search anywhere else.

Ready to turn your camera from a mystery box into your favourite creative tool? Join me in Beginners Blueprint, and let’s make some photo magic together! 🎉

https://learnwithchantel.mykajabi.com/beginners-blueprint-sept24

06/09/2024

What I Did to Go from Beginner to Pro in Under 2 Years 📸✨

Alright, let’s spill the beans, shall we? People always ask, “How did you go from snapping blurry photos to becoming a full-on photography pro in less than two years?” And here’s the thing: it wasn’t some magical shortcut (though, wouldn’t that be fab?). It was a series of steps that I took, and guess what? They’re all things I cover in Beginners Blueprint. Ready for the rundown? Here we go:

I Mastered My Camera Settings: Yep, I finally said goodbye to auto mode and dived headfirst into F-stop, ISO, and shutter speed. It was intimidating at first, but wow, did it make a difference!

I Nailed Focus Like a Pro: I learned how to get super sharp focus every single time. No more guessing, no more blurry faces—just crystal-clear shots.

I Chased the Best Light: I became obsessed with finding the perfect light. Indoors, outdoors, golden hour—I learned how to see it, capture it, and use it to elevate every photo.

I Perfected My Composition and Angles: Composition became my secret weapon. I figured out how to frame my subjects and use angles to make every shot compelling and visually stunning.

I Set the Right Tones with White Balance: I got serious about nailing white balance, so my photos always looked natural and true to life, with none of that weird color cast nonsense.

I Learned to Edit Like a Pro: Editing became my best friend. I discovered simple yet powerful techniques in Lightroom that transformed my photos from “meh” to “magnificent.”

Now, here’s where it gets interesting—according to research, it typically takes a woman with children balancing family life, work, and other responsibilities around 3 to 5 years to go from an absolute beginner to a pro photographer. That’s a lot of time, right? But I managed to do it in under 2 years, and here’s why: I focused on the right things, in the right order, and I didn’t waste time getting lost in the weeds.

That’s why I created Beginners Blueprint—so you don’t have to go through the same struggle. I’ve packed everything I did into this course, so you can fast-track your photography journey, shave years off your learning curve, and focus on what really matters: creating beautiful images that make you proud.

Ready to get started? Let’s do this together. 📸✨

Join here - https://learnwithchantel.mykajabi.com/beginners-blueprint-sept24

05/09/2024

Busy Mums, This Is for You! 📸✨

Hey there, lovely mums! If you’re juggling a million things and still trying to capture those special moments with your kids, but your photos just aren’t turning out the way you hoped—this is for you. I’ve had the privilege of teaching hundreds of mums who, just like you, are fed up with inconsistent photos and feeling overwhelmed by those confusing camera settings.

But here’s the thing: capturing beautiful photos of your family shouldn’t be stressful or time-consuming. That’s exactly why I created Beginners Blueprint—a photography course designed with busy mums like you in mind.

In Beginners Blueprint, you’ll learn:

How to take control of your camera settings without the overwhelm—say goodbye to auto mode, and hello to photos that look exactly how you want them to!
Techniques for capturing your kids in any lighting condition—whether it’s a bright afternoon in the backyard or a cozy evening indoors, you’ll nail it every time.

Simple, time-saving editing tips that will elevate your photos without requiring hours in front of a computer—perfect for when you want to experiment with editing but don’t have time for a steep learning curve.

And the best part? It’s all designed to fit into your busy life. You can learn at your own pace, whenever you have a spare moment. Plus, you’ll have access to 1:1 feedback and support from me—so you’re never left feeling stuck or unsure.

So, if you’re ready to stop struggling with your camera and start capturing the beautiful moments your family deserves, join Beginners Blueprint today. Let’s turn those everyday snapshots into something truly special. 📸✨

Just $75 to get started! Take your first step here - https://learnwithchantel.mykajabi.com/beginners-blueprint-sept24

04/09/2024

I’ve Just Taken on Something Life-Changing and Scary—But I’m Doing It for My Son 💪💙

I have been sitting on this news for a couple of weeks now. Nervous to put it out there to the world and still processing what I have got myself into.....

I’ve just signed myself up for something life-changing, slightly terrifying, and a little bit bonkers. I’ve been accepted to Griffith University, study a Bachelor of Business with a double major in Marketing and Entrepreneurship & Innovation. 🎓✨

But this isn’t just about me—it’s all for my little man. Four years ago, I made the gut-wrenching decision to leave the bush, say goodbye to a 15-year relationship, and leave behind everything I’d grown to know and love. Oh, and did I mention that we spent 7 months living in my parents’ bar room? (Yes, really. Talk about character-building!) After what seemed like a lifetime of living below the poverty line and dimming my light to fit in.....It’s been one heck of a journey, but I’ve always had one goal in mind: to build the life we deserve.

And now, I’m adding something pretty monumental to the mix—this degree. It’s going to be a wild ride, and to be honest, I’m not entirely sure how I’m going to juggle it all. Single mum, two businesses, and now a university student? I am beyond anxious and nervous! But I’m doing it because I want to show my son that anything is possible, even when it feels like the odds are having a good laugh at your expense.

Sure, being a single mum with no help can feel like a never-ending game of juggling flaming swords, and there are days when I wonder if I’ve completely lost the plot. But here’s the thing—I’ve learned that when you want something badly enough, you just find a way. This degree isn’t just a piece of paper; it’s a ticket to the future I’ve been dreaming of for us.

So, here’s to the scary stuff, the big decisions, and the belief that we’re capable of far more than we give ourselves credit for. Thank you for cheering us on—we’ve got a long road ahead, but I’m ready to tackle it with a all of the grit, determination and drive to give him (and me) the life we deserve. 💪✨

Onward and upward—for him, and for us. 🚀

03/09/2024

Why Are Your Photos So Blurry? Let’s Fix That! 📸✨

Alright, let’s talk about the elephant in the room—or rather, the blur in your photos. If your shots look more like abstract art than the crisp, beautiful moments you intended, it’s not you, it’s… okay, maybe it’s a little bit you. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back! Here are the 5 most common reasons why your photos might be blurry, and how to fix them:

Shutter Speed’s Too Slow: If your shutter speed is dragging its feet, everything in your photo is going to be a bit wibbly-wobbly. Fast-moving subject? Crank up that speed, love!

Missed Focus: If your camera’s focusing on the background when it should be on your gorgeous subject’s face, it’s time to take control. Single-point focus is your new best friend.

Camera Shake: Take your time, hold your camera properly, and allow the camera a moment to record the image after you press the shutter—steady hands make for steady shots!
Small Number F-Stop: Shooting with a small number f-stop like f/2.8? It’s dreamy, but it can also mean not a lot in focus at all. Sometimes it’s best to stop down a bit for more in-focus goodness.

Bad Light: Poor lighting can make even the best-shot photo look like it was taken through a foggy window. Learn to find and use the best light, and watch your images transform.

P.S. If any of this sounds like gibberish, or if you’ve had enough of fluking shots and are ready to actually understand your camera, you need to join Beginners Blueprint. It’s now on public sale, but not for long—this offer is closing very soon. Let’s get you shooting confidently! 🎉✨

Join here - https://learnwithchantel.mykajabi.com/beginners-blueprint-sept24

02/09/2024

Last Call! Early Bird Sale Ends Tonight! 🚨

Alright, lovely humans, it’s time to get serious. The Beginners Blueprint early bird sale is closing TONIGHT, and I don’t want you to miss out on this one.

Let me paint you a little picture (pun absolutely intended). Imagine this: you, confidently snapping stunning photos, understanding your camera like it’s your new best friend, and never having to fumble with those tricky settings again. Sounds dreamy, right? Well, that’s exactly what Beginners Blueprint is all about.

We’re talking:

Mastering your camera settings so you can finally ditch auto mode for good.
Getting super sharp focus (because blurry photos belong in the past).

Nailing that perfect light to make your photos pop, indoors or out.
Creating beautiful compositions and angles that’ll make your friends go “Wow, did you take that?!”

Editing like a pro with simple, powerful techniques in Lightroom.

But here’s the kicker: not only do you get all of this, but you also get 1:1 feedback from me—yes, me, your photography BFF, here to guide you every step of the way. Plus, you’ll never have to worry about those pesky little questions throwing you off your game, because I’ll be there to answer them all.

Now, I know life’s busy, and you might be thinking, “I’ll join later,” but here’s the thing: the early bird sale ends TONIGHT. After that, those two fab bonuses (worth over $100) disappear into the sunset.

So, if you’re ready to take your photography from “meh” to “marvellous,” this is your moment. Let’s do this together—click the link, join the Blueprint, and let’s make some photo magic! 🎉✨

https://learnwithchantel.mykajabi.com/beginners-blueprint-early-bird-sale-august

18/08/2024

Ready to embrace the raw, real, and beautiful moments of your family’s story?

Join my FREE online training, "Your Family Frame," from August 19th to 22nd, where we'll dive into the heart of capturing honest, candid memories.

THIS IS YOUR LAST CHANCE TO JOIN! Doors close tonight.

Over four days, you’ll learn:

Day 1: The best gear and techniques for sharp, authentic photos.

Day 2: Master f-stop and aperture priority to create stunning portraits.

Day 3: How to get in the frame and capture the genuine, messy moments with your family.

Day 4: A live Q&A to answer all your photography questions.

Plus, you could win prizes from a $400 giveaway pool! 🎉

With over 8 years of experience and setting up over 800 cameras, I’m here to help you feel confident and creative. Let’s capture those beautiful, messy, human experiences together.

Don’t miss out—sign up now and start documenting your family’s true story.

All of the info is in the link below x

https://learnwithchantel.mykajabi.com/yourfamilyframe

16/08/2024

It’s just easier to reach for your phone than your camera when you want to make sure you photograph something important.

I hear this all the time when I am chatting with beginner photographers and if I am to be honest with you – I do the same thing too!

It is so easy to drive a phone camera and all the settings are done for you. I mean, it is just a matter of point at subject and shoot and you know you will have something half decent. Sometimes the photos are actually quite good, right?

I have found myself at times not even getting my camera out of my camera bag for weeks on end because everything that needed to be documented in my daily life was easily done on my phone.

Can you relate?

This is why our phone cameras are easier:
- The screen shows us exactly how the photo will turn out
- You can focus easily by just tapping the subject on our touch screen
But, did you know that your camera does all of this for you too?
- Changing the settings of your camera will show up on your back screen and you can see exactly what the photos is going to turn out like – mirrorless shooters your viewfinder does this too!
- If you have a touch screen camera, you too can just tap your screen and focus on your subject

Shooting on your phone is comfortable, but it can only take you so far. It is limited and won’t allow you to fully realise your creative potential. But your camera will, you just need to give it the time to get acquainted with it like you have your phone.

If you would like to reach for your camera instead of your phone and easily capture your world around you, Beginners Blueprint – the four week group coaching program for beginner photographers (just $279) has been made for you. You can join the waitlist now for access to the early bird sale, it’s all in the link below x

https://learnwithchantel.mykajabi.com/beginnersblueprintwaitlist

Address

Brisbane, QLD

Opening Hours

Monday	10am - 2pm
Tuesday	10am - 4pm
Wednesday	10am - 4pm
Thursday	10am - 2pm

Website

https://learnwithchantel.mykajabi.com/, http://www.chantelrenaephotography.com/

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Our Story

That Girl Who Photographs Sheep.

13 years ago, I stepped foot into my first working woolshed and it was love at first sight, smell and sound. I have modelled my entire life around the wool industry from that day and have built a career and a home within it as a woolclasser and a photographer.

These days my woolclassing stencil has been hung up and my family of four (my ex-shearer partner, toddler and retired working dog) travel full time across Australia teaching the bush how to document their lives with heart and intention with their cameras.

Forever the sheep and wool advocate, my camera is still covered in dust, lanolin is lingering in the air and no matter how remote our travels, we are always at home in our wool industry.