Emblazoned with scenery ranking among Australia’s most spectacular, the Great Ocean Road is a creative paradise for novice and professional photographers.

Blending breathtaking and rugged coastline with sprawling rainforest and towering trees, this region sparkles at every turn.

It’s where action abounds no matter the season; a pocket of the country where crowds have gravitated for generations. If you want to get to know the Great Ocean Road in a hurry, you’re in the right place.

Photo opportunities on the Coast

1. The 12 Apostles at Port Campbell have been ‘snapped’ more times than a family of twigs but warrant the hype. Frame the formations’ brilliance from several viewing points, but also take time to simply soak up their electrifying aura. Just down the road is equally spectacular Loch Ard Gorge. Here, towering cliffs have been carved in dramatic fashion leaving just a slim opening out to sea.

2. Views from — and incorporating — Cape Otway Lightstation, west of Apollo Bay, are postcard worthy, exposing famous Bass Strait in all its rugged glory. Or try Split Point Lighthouse at Aireys Inlet. At the western end of the region, reach the top of Cape Nelson Lighthouse for more stunning panoramas.

3. As you’d expect, the region’s famous beaches provide prime photo ops and often come with designated viewing platforms. These are my top picks:

• Bells Beach, Torquay.
• Teddy’s Lookout, Lorne.
• Point Addis, between Torquay and Anglesea.
• Memorial Lookout, Anglesea.
• Cinema Point, near Aireys Inlet.
• Cape Patton Lookout, between Wye River and Apollo Bay.
• Marriners Lookout, Apollo Bay.

4. The viewing platform at Logan’s Beach in Warrnambool combines glittering views with great opportunities to glimpse southern right whales in season (June-October).

5. For a funky photo, stop at Artillery Rocks between Lorne and Wye River and marvel at Mother Nature’s creativity.

Photo opportunities at Waterfalls

Spectacular rainforest and other natural beauty abounds; much of it planted within Great Otway National Park. The park is prime for walks and hoards a series of mesmerising waterfalls.

These include:

• Triplet Falls: Spectacular three-tiered falls; 2km walk to reach several elevated viewing spots.
• Erskine Falls: 30m drop; upper lookout an effortless walk from car park, lower lookout accessed via 200-plus stairs.
• Hopetoun Falls: Another 30m plunge; very easily reached at top, access at bottom within grasp of most.
• Beauchamp Falls: Tougher walk to access, but this 20m fall shines among a world of green.
• The amphitheatre-like setting that supports Sheoak Falls close to Lorne is sure to give your camera a tough workout, too.

Outside of the Otways, grab your camera and shoot away at the dazzling 90m-wide Hopkins Falls near Warrnambool.

Photo opportunities of Wildlife

There are loads of opportunities to see native wildlife and bird life to try your skills at wildlife photography.

1. Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, near Warrnambool lives up to its name and is home to koalas, kangaroos, emus, echidnas, and plenty more.

2. Kangaroos consistently roam the fairways of Anglesea Golf Club and make regular appearances at BIG4 Anglesea Holiday Park.

3. Kennett River is one of the best places in the country to see koalas in the wild and is also a prime bird-watching destination. It’s worth looking ‘tree-wards’ for cuddly koalas at nearby BIG4 Wye River Holiday Park, too.

4. Echidnas roam throughout Port Campbell National Park, and if you feel like your eyes are sharper than eagles, try spotting oft-elusive platypus at Lake Elizabeth in Barramunga.