About Martin Osner and the Photography School

Martin Osner is a multi-award-winning fine art photographer, educator, and founder of the Martin Osner Photography School. With over 35 years of experience, Martin has helped thousands of students master the craft of photography through structured courses, creative mentorship, and a deep passion for teaching. His approach blends technical clarity with artistic freedom, guiding learners to develop confidence, purpose, and a personal voice at every level.

To explore Martin’s full biography and artistic journey, visit martinosner.com.

A Legacy of Photography Education

Over the past 35 years, Martin Osner has built a respected legacy in photography education — one that began with formal training and evolved into a personalised, creative approach to teaching. His journey reflects a deep commitment to helping others grow through photography, from early academic leadership to the founding of a school that now inspires learners around the world.

Martin Osner’s commitment to photography education began over three decades ago. In the early 1990s, he co-founded the National College of Photography in South Africa — one of the country's first dedicated institutions for full-time professional photography training. His vision was to create a space where aspiring photographers could receive structured, in-depth instruction that combined technical excellence with creative development.

As a lecturer and curriculum leader, Martin helped shape the direction of photography education in South Africa. Many of the students he taught during those years went on to become professional photographers, educators, and artists in their own right.

After more than a decade of formal academic leadership, Martin transitioned toward a more personal, mentorship-driven model of teaching. He established the Martin Osner Photography School, offering hands-on workshops, personalised coaching, and eventually, fully developed online courses. His goal was to make high-quality photography education more accessible — not only locally, but globally.

Today, the school blends the discipline of classical training with the freedom of artistic exploration, helping students build confidence behind the camera while developing a unique visual voice. Whether learning the basics or exploring fine art photography, students benefit from Martin’s deep experience, clarity of teaching, and passion for creative expression.

More Than a Photographer — An Artist, Curator, and Creative Mentor

Beyond his role as an educator, Martin Osner is also an established fine art photographer and multi-disciplinary artist whose work has been exhibited internationally and collected by clients worldwide. Known for his emotive landscapes, abstract compositions, and mixed-media techniques, Martin uses the camera as a tool and a starting point in a broader creative process.

He is the co-owner and curator of several galleries in South Africa, where he actively supports emerging artists and presents curated collections of fine art and photographic work. His artistic vision bridges the technical and the expressive — a philosophy that defines his personal practice and the teaching style underpinning his photography school.

Through his galleries, mentorship, and educational programmes, Martin inspires photographers to move beyond documentation and toward deeper creative expression. His work reminds students and collectors alike that photography is not only about what we see — but how we choose to see it.

Want to See the Artistic Side of Martin’s Work?

Should you be interested in exploring the full scope of Martin Osner’s creative work, including his original fine art photography, abstract mixed media, and curated collections? In that case, you're invited to visit his dedicated artist website. Here, you will discover a deeper look into his artistic process, recent exhibitions, and collaborative gallery projects there. As an artist and educator, Martin continues to push the boundaries of visual storytelling — using photography as a foundation for creative expression. Visit martinosner.com →

Watch: Interview with Martin Osner

In this engaging interview conducted by photographer and host Martin Kluge, Martin Osner reflects on his creative journey, the evolution of his teaching philosophy, and how photography has shaped his life and artistic practice. The conversation offers valuable insight into his passion for education, his transition into fine art, and the deeper purpose behind his work. It's an inspiring watch for anyone curious about the man behind the camera — and the school.