The Adelaide Camera Expo has cemented its status in my head as the best camera expo in Australia, bringing together photography enthusiasts, professionals, and industry leaders for a spectacular showcase of cutting-edge gear, insightful talks, and hands-on workshops. Held at the bustling Adelaide Central Market, the expo featured top brands like Leica, Nikon, Canon, Fuji, and Sony, as well as innovative new products such as the Hobolite LED lights, which caught my attention.
One of the event’s highlights was an inspiring talk by Kristian Dowling, renowned photographer and Leica ambassador, who shared his incredible journey with photography. It was a standout moment that perfectly encapsulated the expo’s dedication to fostering knowledge and passion in the photography community.
A key player in making the expo a success was PhotoCo, South Australia’s oldest and most respected camera store. PhotoCo, led by third-generation owners Luke and Paul Bulley, has been serving the photography community since 1967. Known for their extensive range of both new and second-hand gear, as well as their dedication to customer service, the Bulley family continues to contribute greatly to photography in Australia. They always offer the best prices on new gear and have built a reputation for sourcing hard-to-find equipment quickly, making them a trusted name in the community.
From gear showcases to educational workshops, the 2024 Adelaide Camera Expo truly was the best yet. I’m already looking forward to next year’s event, excited to see what innovations and experiences it will bring.
Workshops
Kristian Dowling: A Leica Journey
One of the most memorable highlights for me was listening to Kristian Dowling, a world-renowned photographer, speak about his journey with Leica. I met him on my visit to Leica in 2023. Dowling’s expertise, passion for storytelling through photography, and his deep connection with Leica cameras captivated the audience. His talk not only provided an inspiring narrative but also reinforced why Leica remains a beloved brand for many professionals.
Kristian shared his personal experiences from photojournalism to high-fashion shoots, illustrating how Leica cameras helped him capture the most authentic moments. For me, this was the ultimate highlight of the expo, and it added immense value to the event.
Exploring the Latest Gear
Beyond the inspiring talks, the expo was packed with opportunities to explore the latest gear from all the major camera brands. I spent quality time examining the latest Leica equipment and was especially drawn to their compact yet powerful SF40 flash, which I ultimately decided to purchase. The build quality and performance of Leica products truly stood out, reaffirming why the brand is trusted by so many professionals.
Aside from Leica, I delved into the latest offerings from Panasonic, Fuji, Sony, Nikon, and Canon. Each brand had something remarkable to showcase — from new mirrorless cameras to versatile lenses and innovative accessories. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there was something for everyone.
Hobolite LED Lights: A New Favourite
Among the exciting new products, I was particularly intrigued by the new Hobolite LED lights. Their compact design and powerful output made them perfect for photographers and videographers alike. These lights are game-changers for anyone looking to enhance their studio or location shoots. I’m planning to dive deeper into these soon, but they already seem like a fantastic addition to any photographer’s toolkit.
Workshops and Talks
The expo wasn’t just about gear; it was also an educational hub. Attendees could participate in a range of workshops and talks, from off-camera flash techniques with Sony to insights into astro photography. Whether you were learning the nuances of wedding photography or exploring the cultural importance of documenting First Nations communities through a ‘Blak lens,’ the expo provided ample opportunities to grow and refine your craft.
PhotoCo: A Legacy in Photography
PhotoCo, a name synonymous with photography excellence in South Australia, had a prominent presence at the expo. As the oldest camera shop in South Australia, PhotoCo’s long-standing legacy has helped shape the photographic community for decades. Established in 1967, this family-owned business is now operated by Luke and Paul Bulley, the third generation to continue this legacy. Visit their Facebook.
PhotoCo stocks a diverse range of photographic products from major brands like Leica, Nikon, Canon, Panasonic, Sony, and Fuji, as well as offering second-hand cameras and accessories. Their commitment to supporting the photographic community extends beyond sales; they also offer photographic courses, excursions, and repairs through a photo-technician who is highly regarded across Australia.
The Bulley Family: Pillars of the South Australian Photographic Community
The Bulley family has done an extraordinary amount for the photographic community in South Australia. Luke and Paul Bulley, in particular, have carried on the family’s tradition of supporting photographers across the state. They consistently offer some of the best prices on new gear and have a reputation for sourcing equipment quickly when other stores quote long lead times. Their second-hand stock is extensive, fully trustworthy, and perfect for both enthusiasts and professionals alike.
The Adelaide Camera Expo itself is a testament to their passion and dedication to the photographic world, being yet another of their significant contributions to Australian photography. Their commitment to customer satisfaction, knowledge, and service makes them a cornerstone of the photography community, and the expo benefited immensely from their involvement.
The Atmosphere of Adelaide Central Market
There’s something magical about attending the Adelaide Camera Expo at the Adelaide Central Market. With over 70 traders under one roof, the market is one of the largest undercover fresh produce markets in the Southern Hemisphere. It buzzes with life, culture, and color all year round, and the 2024 expo brought that same energy to the photography world.
Located in the heart of Adelaide’s bustling CBD, the market’s vibrant environment was the perfect backdrop for the event. The combination of the city’s cultural richness and the innovation of the photographic world made for an inspiring experience.
The 2024 Adelaide Camera Expo was undeniably the best yet. From Kristian Dowling’s incredible talk to exploring the latest gear from top brands like Leica, Nikon, and Sony, the expo offered something for everyone. The addition of the Hobolite LED lights was a standout for me, and the contributions of PhotoCo and the Bulley family continue to strengthen South Australia’s photographic community. Whether you’re a professional photographer, an enthusiast, or someone just beginning their journey, the Adelaide Camera Expo was an unmissable event, setting the bar even higher for future expos.
If you’re looking for the best camera expo in Australia, the best Australian camera expo, or the best camera trade show in Australia, look no further than the Adelaide Camera Expo. This event continues to showcase innovation, education, and the passion that drives photographers across the country.
