SPAO / School for Photographic Art in Ottawa is a three-year course in photography, that basically teaches you skills and techniques. Though it’s not specifically directed towards becoming a documentary photographer, it leaves a lot of room for personal topics. Photojournalism is an important theme in the second year, when a number of guest lecturers on the subject are invited. SPAO also offers individual courses and workshops. Besides that, the school hosts a series of special events like exhibitions and magazine launches. Like most Canadian and American schools, SPAO is very good at doing PR for their students.

Director of institute is Khalia Scott, who is also chair at X Ottawa Photography Festival.