Blue Mountains, Zara King Photography Sydney Australia
COFFEE MEETUPS • PHOTO WALKS • REAL FRIENDSHIPS

𖤓 lens + latte collective 𖤓


A women-led photography community built around connection, not competition


Sydney-based (for now). Freelancers welcome.

Lens + Latte Collective logo

why lens + latte exists


The freelance life can be isolating. Many of us work alone, juggle irregular schedules, or feel pressure to constantly compare, compete or perform.


Lens + Latte Collective exists to offer something gentler.


This is a women-led community focused on connection, shared growth, and showing up as you are. It's a place to meet others who understand freelance life, spend time creating together, and build friendships that extend beyond the work.


No hustle culture. No hierarchy. Just community.

Woman laughing while learning how to use her camera - Zara King Photography, Sydney Australia

what we do


Lens + Latte gatherings are intentionally low-pressure and welcoming.


You can expect:

  • casual coffee meetups
  • slow photo walks (shoot, chat, or both)
  • small group gatherings and seasonal adventures
  • an end-of-year celebration to mark the year together


You're welcome to shoot, chat, observe or simply be there. No experience level required. No obligation to attend regularly or "network".

Zara's arm holding a Nikon film camera - Zara King Photography, Lens + Latte Collective

this space is for you if:


  • you're a female photographer (other industries also welcome)
  • you freelance, study, or create independently
  • you value collaboration over competition
  • you want community without hustle culture


You don't need a big following, fancy gear, or confidence to "belong" here.

 

COMMUNITY GUIDELINES

 

Lens + Latte Collective is a community-first space.

We ask everyone who joins to help keep it supportive, respectful, and pressure-free.

we aim to

𖤓 treat each other with kindness and respect

𖤓 share space and conversation generously

𖤓 support one another without comparison or competition

𖤓 respect different experience levels, identities, and working styles

Zara King holding dried flowers walking along a cliff at sunset - Zara King Photography, Sydney Australia

 

we ask that you

 

𖤓 avoid unsolicited advice unless it's clearly welcome

𖤓 respect boundaries around personal topics and energy levels

𖤓 honour confidentiality within the group

𖤓 refrain from sales pitches or self-promotion during meetups

FAQ

do I need to be a professional photographer?

Not at all. Lens + Latte Collective welcomes diverse identities, backgrounds and at all experience levels.

Do I need a "proper" camera?

No. Bring whatever you enjoy shooting with, or nothing at all. Some people come for the walk and conversation.

Is there a cost to join?

At this stage, Lens + Latte Collective is free to join. Any paid events will always be clearly communicated in advance.

How often do meetups happen?

Meetups are hosted periodically and shared via Instagram. There's no obligation to attend regularly.

Can I come alone?

Absolutely - most people do. It's ok if you don't know anyone, the collective exists for people who want to meet others - you're exactly who it's for.

Is this a networking group?

No. While connections happen naturally, Lens + Latte is not focused on networking, referrals or self-promotion. There will be natural opportunities to share what you do in conversation, but overt pitching isn't part of the space.

how to join

Pink Protea about to reach full bloom - Zara King Photography, Sydney Australia

There is no formal sign up process.


  1. follow us on instagram for upcoming meetups
  2. come along when it feels right
  3. stay connected in a way that suits you


You're welcome whether you come once or often.