In my time doing freelance photography, I've come across many fantastic places that are usually unknown to the average photographer. I've decided to share my 5 favourite locations in and around Perth. This list should benefit everyone from beginners to professionals as a bit of friendly advice.
Sure there are the usual locations such as the Blue Boat Shed or UWA for great scenery, but there are so many more places that have not become popularised, so check them out before everyone else does.
Fred Jacoby Park
This location is ideal for those of you who live in the Perth hills. I know how difficult it can be, as a hills resident myself, to find the ideal location for your needs. Perhaps bushland isn't what you are looking for. Perhaps you want a taste of an English garden without going to England or commandeering someone's back yard. Fred Jacoby Park is located off Mundaring Weir Road and contains a small portion of picturesque landscape and is not usually busy. This is definitely a something to keep in mind when looking for a place to visit.
Fred Jacoby Park
This little park is bigger than first glances would seem. Located off Mounts Bay Road in Perth, this location is paradise. If you live in the city and you want a forest or a mini waterfall or even a lake and you can't make it out of the city, well now there is no need to. John Oldham Park is centrally located and boasts fantastic scenery with a wide range of locations for your specific shoot, whether it be a wedding or just a fun project for yourself.
John Oldham Park
I've included two beaches within 15 minutes of each other because both offer scenery that the other does not and they are both worth visiting.
Peasholm Dog Beach
I know what you're probably thinking, Dog beach? Why would I want to shoot at a dog beach? Just hear me out. Peasholm is located a few minutes south of Scarborough Beach so its very close to shops and eateries so you don't have to carry around food whilst on a shoot. Like any beach in Australia, it has potential to get very busy on a very hot day by people and dogs alike. But on a decent day, unlike Scarborough Beach up the road, this beach is relatively quiet and perfect for a modelling shoot or even just landscape shots. Located off West Coast Highway, Scarborough.
Peasholm Dog Beach
This is located 15 minutes north from Peasholm, off West Coast Drive in Marmion. Whilst Peasholm is noted for its white sandy beach, perfect for modelling or landscape, Watermans is a perfect location for a more 'grungy' beach shoot. Waterman Beach has very large rocks which add a different element to the location. WARNING: These rocks are very sharp so please show caution when shooting around them. Please keep yours and your models safety a priority.
Watermans Beach
One of the most hidden gems in the Perth Hills. To get to this location you must walk east down the Railway Reserve Heritage Trail off Scott Street in Greenmount, until you find a small side track up the hill and if you follow this you will reach the Blue Stone Quarry. A small quarry off the beaten track makes for a very interesting location if you are looking for a very secluded spot and are willing to walk. Information is very scarce on this location but it is worth a look if you are looking for a sheer stone background for your next project.
Have you found any other great locations? Let me know in the comments!
