Photographing Sydney Harbour Australia
Photographing Sydney Harbour Australia
I love looking around harbours at all the boats and imagining the lifestyles that some of the big yacht owners have. Sydney Harbour in Australia is definitely one of the most impressive harbours I’ve been to and there's so many photo opportunities. Even on a really overcast day you can always still get some good shots on the waterfront as there’s so much extra light bouncing around off the water and the clouds act like a giant diffuser.
Scenes like these always seem to work well in HDR as there's so much detail at each exposure level that the processing seems to bring out. These three little boats really caught my eye.
Top Spots for Epic Shots in Sydney Harbour
1. Circular Quay: This place is buzzing with energy, offering classic views of both the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Pro tip: Evening shots here are a must. The way the lights play on the water and buildings is pure magic.
2. The Rocks: It's where old Sydney meets new, giving your shots a rich historical texture against a modern skyline. Pro tip: After sunset, the area lights up in a way that's just begging to be photographed.
3. Mrs. Macquarie's Chair: It's your go-to for that picture-perfect postcard shot of Sydney. The view here is unbeatable. Pro tip: Sunrise here is quiet and stunning, offering soft lighting that's ideal for photography.
4. Luna Park: For something a bit more colorful and quirky, Luna Park's entrance and vintage vibes offer some fun shots. Pro tip: Night shots here are vibrant with all the lights and reflections.
5. Kirribilli: A quieter spot with a killer view of the city's skyline. It's perfect for a more reflective mood. Pro tip: A telephoto lens here works wonders, pulling the city right up close.
6. Barangaroo Reserve: A newer spot with a great mix of urban and natural elements. It's peaceful and pretty. Pro tip: The light during golden hour gives everything a beautiful, warm glow.
Adding to the List
7. Darling Harbour: This bustling area is great for capturing Sydney's lively side, especially around the restaurants and boardwalk. Pro tip: Try some long exposure shots at night to capture the movement and lights.
8. Watsons Bay: Offers stunning clifftop views and a different perspective on the Harbour. Pro tip: Late afternoon light here is soft and beautiful, perfect for landscapes.
9. North Head: For panoramic views of the harbour and city, North Head is unbeatable. Pro tip: Visit during golden hour for dramatic lighting across the water and city.
From My Camera Bag: Tips for Sydney Harbour Shots
Chase the Light: Early mornings and late afternoons are your best bet for that soft, dramatic lighting.
Bring a Tripod: Essential for those crisp evening shots, especially if you're experimenting with long exposures.
Play with Filters: A polarizing filter can really make your daytime shots pop, cutting down on glare and enhancing the blues of the sky and water.
Explore Angles: Don't just stick to eye level. High, low, close, far – changing your perspective can completely transform a shot.
Respect the Space: Sydney's a bustling place. Be mindful of others, and try to leave no trace where you shoot.
Sydney Harbour's got a bit of everything for photographers, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. Each spot has its own charm, and there's always something new to discover, no matter how many times you've shot there. So grab your gear, and see what moments you can capture. Who knows? Your next shot could be your best one yet. Happy shooting!
About Me
I’m Nick Rose, London wedding photographer and pre wedding adventurer who’s been lucking enough to photograph weddings all over the glob. Some of the locations I have been lucky enough to photograph weddings at include; India, Dubai, Seychelles, USA, Hong Kong, Singapore and many more. Check out my London wedding photographer page or lots more weddings in the blog links below.
