Master Light. Find Your Voice. Build With Purpose.

Join the membership that gives photographers and artists the tools, feedback, and mentorship to build a thriving creative career.

01

Learn, Create, and Thrive

Light Syndicate Academy offers tailored learning experiences for photographers at all levels, combining foundational techniques with advanced practices to inspire creativity and professional growth.

02

Photography as a Journey

Discover photography as a powerful medium for expression, connection, and storytelling. Our approach not only enhances your skills but also inspires personal and artistic growth.

03

Tailored Courses and Exclusive Workshops

Explore a curated selection of courses and workshops led by João Carlos, covering lighting techniques, creative processes, and the business of photography.

Join a thriving community of photographers and visual artists. Engage in creative challenges, portfolio reviews, and live sessions while building meaningful connections that inspire and support your journey

Building a Creative Community Together

At Light Syndicate Academy, we believe that community is at the heart of creativity. Founded by João Carlos, an award-winning photographer, global keynote speaker, and educator, the academy is a place where photographers and visual artists come together to learn, share, and grow. João’s decades of experience form the foundation of our educational philosophy, fostering a culture of collaboration and support. While his leadership shapes the academy’s vision, we also embrace the contributions of other exceptional educators and industry professionals, who bring diverse perspectives and expertise to our community. Together, we create a dynamic environment where ideas flow freely, hands-on experiences inspire growth, and connections build lasting opportunities. Through interactive sessions, live workshops, and creative challenges, Light Syndicate Academy empowers its members to excel in both their artistic and professional journeys. Our mission is to nurture a community that thrives on shared knowledge, mutual support, and the pursuit of creative excellence.

Join the Community.

From Rejection to Resilience Book

Rejection isn't the end—it's the beginning. João’s book helps creatives overcome fear, build confidence, and grow sustainably.

Master Your Lighting. Define Your Style.

Your Pocket Lighting Coach

The Light Deck is your go-to visual lighting system for studio and natural light setups — made by João Carlos for photographers of all levels.

✔ Visual Setups

✔ Diagrams

✔ Creative Use Tips

Your Mentor: João Carlos, 25+ Years of Experience, Global Brand Ambassador, Award-Winning Photographer

Founded by award-winning photographer and educator João Carlos, Light Syndicate Academy is where creativity meets mastery. With over 25 years of experience, João blends artistic innovation with commercial impact, driven by his core philosophy: From Rejection to Resilience.

A Hasselblad Masters winner and Photographer of the Year at the APPImagem Awards, João works with top brands like Fujifilm, SanDisk, and Westcott. Known for his bold lighting and emotional storytelling, he teaches through immersive courses, hands-on mentorship, and real-world insights that empower creatives to build sustainable careers.

João has inspired students at institutions like ETIC and IPCI and speaks at major conferences worldwide—including Photokina, Mobile World Congress, and CAPTA—challenging creatives to push boundaries and embrace growth.

Light Syndicate Academy is more than education—it’s a community. Whether you’re just starting or refining your craft, João is here to help you grow with purpose, confidence, and resilience.

Exclusive Member Benefit — Powered by KOYLAB

We’re proud to partner with KOYLAB, makers of premium photo albums and print products, to bring you something special.

As a valued member of the Light Syndicate Academy community, you get an exclusive 20% discount on your next KOYLAB order — courtesy of our ambassador partnership.

Whether you’re delivering fine art portfolios, wedding albums, or client gifts, KOYLAB’s handcrafted quality ensures your work is presented at its very best.

Offer valid on Albums, Books, Prints & Mats, Boxes, and more. First-time use only.

Are you ready to elevate your photography skills? Join our expert-led workshops at Light Syndicate Academy

Unlock your photographic potential with Light Syndicate Academy! Dive into our workshops and gear up for a journey where creativity meets technique. Enroll now and start capturing the world in your unique light. Click here to begin your adventure.

WHY CHOOSE US

STUDENT TESTIMONIALS

Primoz Lukezic

Student

I had a chance to have one on one coaching with Joao and it blowed my mind. I am a professional commercial photographer and for some time now I thought I hit some sort of wall. It is really hard to receive an honest opinion this days and I think we need this if we want to grow. Talking with Joao was eye opening. After our conversation I finished my webpage which was under my TO DO list for around two years in just a week. I look at my work a little different now. Can’t wait to talk to him again.

Danny Santa Ana

Student

My first workshop with Joao was back in 2011 when he visited Toronto, Canada. It was an intensive three day workshop on Fashion photography. And to this date, it is the best workshop I have attended. During that time, I noticed on many occasions Joao would spend some focused time with each and every attendee to make sure they understood the assignment and give suggestions on how to approach it. I remember on one assignment, I was having difficultly finding an angle that suited the model and the wardrobe. Joao came over and looked at the back of my camera to scroll through the images I had taken already. He turned to me and said that I was allowed to take only one more shot. This forced me to really look at the way I approached taking a photo and discover the difference of taking a snap shot and creating an image. Through the years we have kept in touch through social media and most recently on an online one-on-one consult. I value Joao’s generous sharing of his knowledge and experience. I not only consider him an exceptional instructor but also a mentor.

Teresa Nunes

Student

João is an outstanding mentor; my discussions with him proved to be incredibly valuable, particularly in refining my thoughts to enhance a portfolio website. Furthermore, his support was a beacon of positivity through the uncertain times of lockdown. I wholeheartedly endorse him to those eager to expand their knowledge and skills. Engaging with him is a learning experience I recommend earnestly. For his invaluable guidance, I am profoundly thankful.

André Afonso

Student

"I had the opportunity to have a one-on-one session with João Carlos, which was something I really needed. I felt stagnant, and João's reviews and insights were very effective in identifying many of my faults and served as motivation to improve. João is very assertive and direct in everything related to photography but is also a natural communicator, which makes the whole conversation very fluid. It's also much easier to accept criticism when it is indeed constructive and from someone with a lot of knowledge and experience."