Picture-Perfect Moments

A Photography Guide for the 12 Apostles Coast.

Sure we can frame a shot and have a good eye for light but beyond that our photographic skills are fairly limited. If anyone asked us (and no-one has) We would tell them that the best equipment purchase we ever bought was an armband for our council supplied iPhone.

Are we good photographers?

Well we are not bad but mostly we are just lucky people that get to wave their phone at the wonder that surrounds us. So what are our top tips to capture a great image with a smartphone?

Use the Rule of Thirds – It really works!

Experiment with Tilting – A smartphone’s small lens means that just a slight tilt can dramatically alter how light enters the frame, transforming your photo.

Change the Focus – Tap different areas on your screen to shift the exposure and feel of your shot.

Choose Your Timing – The best times for photography in Port Campbell National Park are in the 3 hours after sunrise and the 1.5 hours leading up to sunset. In the morning, shoot west; in the late afternoon, shoot east to capture colour and detail on the sea stacks (the Apostles).

Forget the Rules and Get Creative – Magic moments can happen at any time— just keep your phone ready.
Seek Foreground Detail – Get down low to find texture and depth, improving your photo’s composition (no wonder kids have all the fun; it’s pretty spectacular down there).

Use HDR Mode – It adds more realistic light grading, depth of field, and definition. But remember, go easy on the editing— nature knows best!

Take Time to Really Look – Spend time in beautiful places and let your photography deepen your appreciation for the natural world.

Why not follow our social channels and join us on live crosses from all of our favourite locations? Ask a question, request a different location and control the camera as we explore the region sharing our favourite spots and compositions. We go live on Facebook, Instagram occasionally on YouTube and have been known to pull out the odd selfie for Tiktok . Joining in a live video is a good way to build excitement and familiarise yourselves with opportunities before you arrive.

Main forums to see our photos and videos

  • Instagram @visit12apostles
  • Facebook visit12apostles
  • Youtube visit12apostles
  • Twitter visit12apostles
  • Tiktok visit12apostles
  • www.visit12apostles.com.au

Ethical photography: None of the photos we take or feature are taken over safety barriers and all locations are generally accessible on level signposted pathways. Lean, reach, get up on your tippy toes and get down low to be creative but please stick to designated walkways to protect our delicate clifftop ecology and shoot and post responsibly.

Discover Your Next 12 Apostles Adventure

Explore more places to stay, play, and reconnect with nature in the Great Ocean Road Region