Melbourne has got some pretty iconic places, but sometimes it can be hard to pick. One of the trickiest things is finding a place that is gorgeous, but equally isn't crowded by tourists! I always suggest doing sessions on a weekday afternoon for this reason. Additionally you can have your session done in glowy sunrise light for spots that tend to get crazily crowded during the day, and at sunset for the perfect engagement photos in Melbourne. Enjoy this article and all photos by myself at Melbadsey.co.
1. Black Rock Beach
This is a little slice of heaven that is seriously underrated. The rock formations and cliffs make you feel like you're in California and it's only 40 minutes from Melbourne CBD. What I love the most about shooting at the beach is that colours come out so well because of all the neutral tones, it's a must.
There are beautiful rock formations that you can stand on and have the sea stretch out for miles behind you. What is even better is it's close to shops and cafes so you can grab yourself a snack before heading to your session (an essential for a good time).
Pro Tip: Wear shoes if you are clumsy like me, these two came away without a scratch but as the photographer I definitely bruised my feet. Gotta do what you gotta do for the perfect photos!
2. Flinders, Mornington
It's no secret that Mornington Peninsula is super popular. Filled with coastline, cute brunch spots and lots of natural scenic places like Flinders Blowhole, Arthurs Seat and Dromana beach. Flinders holds rolling hills and amazing 'coast meets cliffs' that makes you feel like you are in Scotland, a definite for your engagement photos if you want the sea, the hills and a whole lot of freedom!
And just like in the photos above, the sunsets are pretty incredible! Note that at different times of the year the sun will set in a different place. These images were taken closer to the end of the year and the sun was setting perfectly in the waterline horizon. Whereas I photographed this same spot a week ago close to winter (mid May) and the sun was setting behind the hills to the right. Either way the sunset was gorgeous.
3. Yarra Valley
Yarra Valley holds some pretty amazing views. Filled with wineries, wedding venues and parks it's a pretty ideal spot to get photos with an abundance of locations to choose from. Drop into a vineyard on your way to your shoot and grab a bottle of wine - you will be set!
4. Grampians National Park
Okay okay, so I know you are thinking this isn't exactly a close to Melbourne. But I've put it here for my adventure lovers who aren't afraid to drive a few hours for some pretty spectacular views. The grampians is FILLED to the brim with lookouts, hiking trails and adventure trails. You can't run dry of spot to have your photos taken. Be aware of popular spots like The Balconies as they can be crowded during peak season during sunset. I'd suggest instead looking at doing a sunrise shoot at somewhere like Boroka Lookout.
If you are engaged in Melbourne, I hope these spots help you pick somewhere to do your photos justice! Got a location idea that isn't on this list? Let's chat!
