SPAO: Photographic Arts Centre

Something very special in Ottawa!

I enrolled in the SPAO diploma program and the whole experience has changed my life. All the teachers and staff are incredible artists you can learn so much from! It's the first educational experience where I felt people truly believed in me and my work. They've always made me feel safe and they really take the time to understand their students. In my program, I not only grew as a photographer but as an artist too. Everyone is super supportive of each others artistic journey and success. You not only get a great education at SPAO but you're a part of an amazing community too.Jonathan and Michael are both visionaries. They've put so much heart, passion, and good intentions into SPAO. They genuinely care so much and have really created a school that's ahead of it's time.I highly recommend SPAO to anyone considering photography and/or if they want to connect with a great arts community.

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SPAO is an amazing community of photo-minded folks. I loved my time studying in the full-time program (2008-2010). Since then, I have developed my practice as a photo-based artist. The experience enriched my life in immeasurable ways!

Beautiful facility and amazing team!

I attended SPAO from 2011-2014 (extra year for artist residency). One of the best, if not the best, photography institutions in the country. The instructors are really more like mentors, guiding you through your experience.