After years shooting across Melbourne, these are the locations we come back to again and again — grouped by the look they give you, with notes on light and permits so you can plan a shoot that actually works.
Melbourne is one of the most shootable cities in Australia. In a single afternoon you can go from manicured colonial gardens to raw brick laneways to a wide coastal horizon. The trick is matching the location to the mood you're after — and timing it around the light.
For Greenery & Romance
Royal Botanic Gardens
The gold standard for portraits and weddings — lakes, lawns, and towering trees. It's a managed garden, so commercial and wedding shoots need a paid permit; book ahead. Best in the soft light of early morning before the crowds.
Carlton Gardens & the Royal Exhibition Building
World-Heritage architecture, fountains and symmetrical avenues. Grand and timeless — ideal for elegant wedding and engagement portraits.
Fitzroy Gardens
Elm-lined avenues that turn golden in autumn, plus the historic Conservatory. Central, and endlessly flattering.
For Editorial, Fashion & Street Style
Fitzroy & Collingwood
Melbourne's creative heart — murals, warehouse walls, and colour everywhere. Perfect for fashion, brand and music content with an authentic, lived-in edge.
The CBD Laneways
Hosier Lane, AC/DC Lane and Centre Place give you texture, graffiti and moody contrast. Great for editorial and album covers. Early morning avoids foot traffic.
Docklands & the Bolte Bridge
Clean lines, water and modern architecture for a sleeker, more corporate or automotive look.
For Coastal Light
Brighton Bathing Boxes
The rainbow beach boxes are a Melbourne icon — bright, playful and instantly recognisable. Shoot at sunrise for empty sand and warm colour.
Half Moon Bay & Black Rock
Cliffs, a shipwreck and dramatic sunset light. A favourite for couples and fashion when you want the ocean without the crowds.
For Grand Weddings
Werribee Park Mansion
A 19th-century mansion with formal gardens — sweeping, cinematic, and built for luxury wedding photography.
The Yarra Valley
Vineyards, rolling hills and estate venues 45 minutes from the city. Golden-hour vineyard portraits are hard to beat.
A Note on Permits
Casual, non-commercial photos in most public streets and parks don't need a permit. But commercial shoots, large crews, and managed gardens (like the Royal Botanic Gardens and Werribee Park) usually require a paid permit or booking. Always check the relevant council or park website before a commercial shoot — it's a quick step that saves a lot of hassle on the day.
Want a location scouted and planned around your brief? That's part of what we do — see our recent photography and videography work, or get in touch.