Top Landscape Photography Locations on the Mornington Peninsula
Suppose you are located in Melbourne, like me. Sometimes it feels unless you are willing to drive for hours, there simply are not good landscape photo locations nearby. Luckily we have the Mornington Peninsula to quench our photography needs.
Nestled along the stunning coastline of Victoria, Australia, lies the Mornington Peninsula, a hidden gem for landscape photographers seeking to capture the raw beauty of nature. With its rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and panoramic vistas, the peninsula offers a plethora of captivating locations just waiting to be immortalised through the lens of a camera. In this blog post, we'll embark on a photographic journey through some of the most picturesque spots the Mornington Peninsula has to offer.
1. Cape Schanck
Cape Schanck, capture under the Milky Way
Perhaps the most well-known location on this list, is Cape Schanck, home to the iconic Cape Schanck Lighthouse. Perched atop dramatic cliffs overlooking Bass Strait, this picturesque locale offers unparalleled views of the ocean and surrounding coastline. Whether you're photographing the rugged rock formations, the crashing waves below, or the lighthouse silhouetted against a blazing sunset, Cape Schanck never fails to inspire wonder.
This location is perfect for pretty much any condition, whether a beautiful sunrise, a dark stormy day or even a night of possible aurora activity,( possible list coming soon).
2. Pulpit Rock
Just a few minutes walk away from the famous Cape Schanck lighthouse is the photographic icon, Pulpit Rock. Perched majestically atop the windswept cliffs overlooking Bass Strait, Pulpit Rock commands attention with its imposing presence. Carved over centuries by the relentless forces of nature, this geological marvel stands as a testament to the raw power and beauty of the Australian coastline. From its vantage point, photographers are treated to sweeping panoramas of the azure sea stretching endlessly towards the horizon.
I would recommend research the tidal times for your visit, as it can drastically change the end result of your image. A beautiful location for a long exposure sunrise.
3. Flinders BlowHole
Adding to our list of captivating locations is the Flinders Blowhole, a natural wonder that never fails to mesmerise visitors. Witness the raw power of the ocean as it surges through a sea-carved hole in the coastal rocks, sending plumes of water soaring into the air. Whether you're capturing the dramatic spray of the blowhole against the backdrop of the sea or the rugged beauty of the surrounding cliffs, the Flinders Blowhole is a must-visit destination for any landscape photographer. A word of caution, don’t get too close to the water, the waves here can be very large and unpredictable.
4. Dragons Head
Located at Number 16 Beach Rye, the Dragon's Head rock formation is surreal. Shaped by the forces of nature over millennia, this iconic landmark resembles the head of a dragon emerging from the turquoise waters below. Capture the ethereal beauty of this natural wonder against the backdrop of the rugged coastline, or wait until sunset to witness the rock formation bathed in the warm glow of twilight. For this particular location, it is essential to check your tidal information as it is not accessible during high tide. I personally love to put on 10 stop filter with a polariser to capture a nice long exposure, depending on the weather conditions.
5. Rye Pier
Rye Pier, captured on a bright day, with the use of 10 stop filter for the long exposure.
Not surprising there are many piers locations on the peninsula, however, I believe on an overcast day, the Rye Pier is hard to beat. Easy to access, and well-maintained this is a great location for black-and-white photography.
6. Mushroom Reef Marine Sanctuary
Not necessarily a great location for landscape photography, however a perfect place to explore the vast array of subjects ideal for macro photography.
Like most coastal photography, check the tide times before you go, as there is very little to shoot during high tide here. For more macro photography tips check out this blog post.
