For photographers seeking to immortalise your perfect sunrise / sunset photo, few sights rival the vivid red skies that paint the landscapes of New South Wales (NSW) and Victoria (VIC). From the mystical Blue Mountains to the rugged cliffs of Cape Schanck and the iconic 12 Apostles on the Great Ocean Road, here are some expert tips on when and how to capture these breathtaking sunrise and sunset photos:
1. Blue Mountains – A Celestial Symphony (sunrise and sunset photo)
When: Early morning before sunrise or after sunset.
Where: Pick spots in the Blue Mountains that offer clear views of the horizon and valley below.
How: Create captivating compositions by blending sunrise or sunset scenes with stars. Capture the stars during twilight’s blue-to-red shift and the mist in the valley, which adds a mystique, enchanting and captivating atmosphere. The sunset photo below was taken at Evans lookout
2. Saddle Mountain (Lookout) – Above the Clouds (sunrise photo)
When: Early morning just before sunrise.
Where: Go to Saddle Mountain Lookout for a panoramic view of the landscape below.
How: Capture the sun’s first rays casting a warm glow on clouds, forming a mesmerizing interplay of light and shadow. Clouds take on a cotton candy appearance in red, orange, and pink hues. Employ a telephoto lens for detailed cloud layers and frame the landscape for depth and context.
3. Cape Schanck – Pulpit Rock – Cliffs Aflame (sunset photo)
When: Late afternoon to sunset.
Where: At Cape Schanck’s Pulpit Rock, situated on the rugged coastline.
How: Reach Cape Schanck in the late afternoon to watch cliffs transform with the sun’s descent. The golden hour adds warmth to the rugged cliffs’ beauty. Use long exposure to capture water’s captivating movement on the rock. Tip: Aim for low tide to capture dynamic water movements and explore beyond Pulpit Rock to witness various rock formations, including small pools cascading into the ocean. The photo below is an example of what your sunset photo of Cape Schanck might look like if you are going at low tide.
4. Tidal River – A Mirror of the Sky (sunrise and sunset photo)
When: Sunrise and sunset.
Where: At Tidal River, where the river meets the sea, creating a natural reflective surface on the sand.
How: Get close to the ground for a breathtaking reflection of the red sky on wet sand. Symmetry between the sky and its reflection makes a captivating picture. Keep your camera steady with a tripod for longer exposures in low light, and add rocks or driftwood for foreground interest.
5. Great Ocean Road – 12 Apostles Platform – Nature’s Masterpiece (sunrise and sunset photo)
When: Sunrise or sunset.
Where: At the 12 Apostles platform along the Great Ocean Road.
How: The 12 Apostles, limestone rock formations, are an ideal focus for capturing the vibrant red sky. Get there early or stay post-sunset to see the stunning contrast between the fiery sky and towering sea stacks. Play with angles and setups for the best framing against the radiant backdrop. Tip: The platform is sensitive to motion. Visiting on calm days with minimal wind will help you capture the ideal shot more effortlessly. Click on this link to get your copy of the sunset photo below
Conclusion
Embark on a journey through the enchanting landscapes of NSW and VIC with these pro tips, ready to capture nature’s fiery spectacle in full splendor. Timing is crucial—moments before sunrise and after sunset unveil a sky ablaze with vibrant reds. As you explore with your camera, let your lens narrate the story of these captivating skies and the breathtaking allure of the Australian wilderness. Explore a collection of stunning red skies through this link: https://beautifulnaturephotos.com.au/shop/landscapes/
