The Bulley family who operate PhotoCo at Adelaide Central Market have done more for the photography community in South Australia than any other business. As I stepped into the bustling Adelaide Central Market for the third annual Adelaide Camera Expo, I was greeted by a palpable wave of excitement that swept through the rows of eager photography enthusiasts. This was no ordinary gathering; it was a testament to the unwavering dedication of the Bulley family, the proprietors of PhotoCo, whose contribution to South Australia’s photography community could scarcely be overstated.
Since attending the inaugural expo, I’ve watched it burgeon into a landmark event, drawing nearly 700 photography aficionados through its doors. The growth is a reflection of the community’s burgeoning passion for photography, and this year’s turnout solidified the expo as the pinnacle gathering for camera enthusiasts in the region.
Roaming the expo, I found myself lost in the charm of the antique cameras on display. A particular Sony PDX10 caught my eye—a relic that almost had me reaching for my wallet, propelled by nostalgia. But beyond the allure of vintage collectibles, the real value of the expo lay in the immersive experience it offered. Unlike the sterile ambiance of a conventional sales floor, here was an opportunity to handle the latest photographic gear at leisure. The chance to interact with fellow photographers, exchange notes, and snap pictures in an environment embellished by live music and a mini studio was invaluable.
I couldn’t resist the allure of the Leica stall, where Cameron, a true gem of a fellow, warmly engaged us in conversations about their latest lenses. It was this kinship amongst like-minded individuals, coupled with the opportunity to handle exquisite gear, that rendered the experience truly exceptional.
The fervor was infectious, with stalwarts like Canon, Panasonic, Fuji, Sony, and Nikon showcasing their newest innovations. Each table buzzed with tales of photographic pursuits and shared joy in the craft, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
The expo’s reputation as the largest photographic event in South Australia was well-earned. It served as a beacon for iconic speakers and industry leaders, offering workshops and insights from distinguished professionals like Simon Kither, Kelly Barnes, and the esteemed folks at The Centre for Creative Photography, to name a few.
One of the day’s highlights was witnessing a lucky participant win a Fujifilm X100V in the raffle—an enviable prize that epitomized the generous spirit of the event.
Through the years, PhotoCo has garnered acclaim that stretches well beyond Adelaide’s borders, earning the patronage of illustrious figures such as director Warwick Thornton and musician Ben Folds. Despite the passing of time, the family’s ethos has remained unaltered: to provide stellar products paired with unparalleled advice.
The shop’s affiliation with the Camera House group has not diluted its essence; if anything, it’s enhanced its reputation as a purveyor of quality. With the most competitive prices for film and development in the city, coupled with accessible photography lessons, PhotoCo is not just a store—it’s an institution for any photographic enthusiast.
So, to those who share a passion for capturing moments…Make sure to mark your calendars; this is an experience not to be missed.
