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The Circle mentors from left to right: Darcy Goss, Tim Northey, Steph Pedersen, Brendan Cecich & Macami
Auckland, NEW ZEALAND – 26 June 2025: Canon Oceania today announces the launch of The Circle, a vibrant new community designed for the next generation of visual creators. Developed to empower photographers and videographers to level up their skills by connecting with like-minded people and receiving expert guidance from mentors who work full-time in the industry, The Circle offers an interactive way to learn.
Open to all emerging visual creators in Australia and New Zealand, no matter what camera gear they use, The Circle is kicking off with communities in three key niches - Travel, Music and Fashion. Within their chosen niche, participants are connected with an experienced mentor, given access to exclusive events, learning resources and welcomed into a supportive online community - hosted on the dynamic platform, Discord. The community, moderated by Canon photographers including Nicole Ainsworth (@sailornicole), gives creators a chance to ask questions, join challenges, share work and build meaningful connections in real time.
The Circle is more than just a Canon Oceania initiative, it’s a community-built virtual space, designed and shaped in collaboration with creators themselves. The platform offers a two-way model that champions practical experience, real-world tips and shared learning, with the opportunity to join live online workshops led by mentors.
“Our goal with The Circle is to connect people with creativity, community and knowledge,” said Aaron Berthelot, Senior General Manager – Consumer Sales & Marketing, Canon Oceania. “What makes this program truly special is that it’s been co-created with our mentors. Their insight, passion and firsthand industry knowledge helped shape the entire experience. It’s not just a Canon program—it’s a shared vision, designed to grow with and for the community.”
The Circle launches with a handpicked group of mentors who reflect the energy and diversity of today’s creator landscape, including travel mentor, Tim Northey (@tk_north), fashions mentors, Macami (@macami__) and Steph Pedersen (@stephpedersen.co) and music mentors, Brendan Cecich (@brendancphoto) and Darcy Goss (@darcygossmedia).
Fashion mentor Macami shared, “It’s so important to have a place to gather, whether online or in person. Learning is empowering, and sharing is truly fulfilling. When I moved from abroad, finding a creative community that resonated with me gave me such a strong sense of belonging. That’s what I hope The Circle can be for others too.”
Members of The Circle can access curated tips, resources and guides straight from Canon. Additional perks, including special offers and opportunities, are also available to members throughout the program.
Mentor biographies:
Tim Northey @tk_north
Based in Sydney, @tk_north is a well-renowned travel photographer, videographer, and YouTuber known for his thoughtful approach and dedication to the craft. His work has led to collaborations with major clients around the world and earned him a loyal audience. Driven by a commitment to continuous improvement, TK is equally passionate about helping fellow creators build their skills and ignite their potential.
Macami @macami__
Macami is a Brazilian fashion photographer based in Sydney, Australia. Her work blends surrealism, colour and emotion to create dreamlike, painterly images that sit at the intersection of art and commerce. She has photographed for local fashion brands, editorials and press features for clients including Netflix, Museum of Brisbane, Tia Gostelow, and Melissa Shoes. She is currently developing personal creative projects that expand her distinctive visual language. Beyond her photographic practice, Macami also runs community events that bring people together, creating inclusive spaces for connection, creativity and shared inspiration.
Steph Pedersen @stephpedersen.co
Steph is a Filipino-Australian photographer whose work blends a distinctly feminine perspective with emotional depth and intimacy. Influenced by European painters and cinematographers, her imagery draws from personal connection, empathy and poetic storytelling. Now partnered with Canon, she continues to grow her craft and community.
Brendan Cecich @brendancphoto
Brendan is a Perth-based photographer, videographer and creative director who has cemented his name in the music and live events industry. His love for music stemmed from his mother, who is a music teacher, and his interest in photography began when his father bought a Canon EOS 1100D as a ‘family camera’. His work has taken him behind the scenes of some of the world’s biggest artists, including Billie Eilish, Drake, and Travis Scott - on top of working with some of Australia’s most renowned collectives and festivals.
Darcy Goss @darcygossmedia
Darcy is a Brisbane-based music photographer and founder of Alterwave, a music media agency and publication that supports, nurtures and elevates music photographers. With a passion for capturing the emotive and authentic energy of a performance, Darcy shoots with instinct - always chasing those fleeting moments where sound, emotion and movement collide. From shooting major artists like Fontaines DC, Dean Lewis and Sleeping With Sirens in large-scale venues, to capturing the energy of local shows with The Jungle Giants, Middle Kids and Teenage Dads, Darcy's work doesn’t just document the scene - it embodies it.
