Location location...
So you have booked your session and now it's time to start planning! Before I even think about clothing I always tend to lean into finding a location that suits you. I am a huge fan of Pinterest, it is a great place to brain storm and help yourself get creative. Searching things like 'family photo ideas' or 'what to wear to my beach photo session' brings up a multitude of inspiration and ideas.
I use lots of public areas around Bundaberg, we are really lucky to have an amazing coast line, lots of parks and nature reserves and even forestry for those incredible woodland style photos. Below is an articulation of my favourite locations.
The weather does play a huge part in how locations look. On bright sunny days colours are more true, and dark cloudy days are more moody and having less light means I tend to gravitate more towards open areas like the beach so that lighting can bounce around and not be hidden by tall trees. I will always give my honest opinion about how things will look with what the weather is doing on your photoshoot day. Sometimes the weather is just not right and I will advise to move to another date for better results.
FOREST LOCATION #1
I have been using this area for a few years, it has changed a lot with forest timber being lopped but it has always had beautiful lighting on sunny days. There is a natural spring that runs over the road so great for older kids to throw rocks, or splash in on a hot summers day at the end of the session. This location is around 15 minutes from the Bundaberg airport.
FOREST LOCATION #2
This location is on the opposite side of the main Bundaberg/Childers road. It has forestry, sandy tracks, macadamia option and also Lake Gregory so all of these locations are fairly useable in the one afternoon. Lake Gregory is a beautiful water location, but I do not recommend for younger children that run towards water. It is also a great option for darker/overcast days.
BARGARA BEACH (MARY KINCROSS PARK END).
This is a lovely beach location at Bargara. It has a few minutes walk from the car parking area. It is very sheltered, and usually has a little creek running to the ocean at the right tide. Great for days that are a bit windy as there is protected areas. Always spray for mozzie and midges for beach sessions as they are usually around at sunset times.
BUNDABERG BOTANIC GARDENS
A classic spot if you like maintained gardens with multiple areas to choose from. I highly recommend using this when the weather is bright and sunny, as it can be little more closed in than other areas which can make it quite dark. It is generally green all year round.
BAROLIN RESERVE BARGARA
This public location is a great spot for those whole love a little bit of a country feel to their photos. The trees have grown a lot since I started using this location, so it's nice to have some options with a great green backdrop. It is usually always green throughout Summer and there is some dry grassy areas during Autumn and Winter for those golden country feels. There is also a set of timber stables which is also fun, making shots feel a little rustic. Multiple gates and fence lines means there is lots of fun for the kids to climb and play.
MY PROPERTY @ SOUTH BINGERA
We have been at our property for just over a year and I keep finding the prettiest spots to use! We are mostly bushland with a country feel and on sunny days the light is glorious. It is a great private setting on 20 acres. It is green mostly through summer and dries out over Autumn and Winter.
ELLIOT HEADS BEACH (CARAVAN PARK SIDE)
Known for its white sand and beautiful blue water, it would have to be my favourite beach to photograph. This particular location is used when a slightly earlier time is needed or if it's too bright to use the other side. There is a little creek that runs down one side which is fun for smaller children to play in. This side can be busy during school holidays so I tend to avoid it during busier times. It can also be very windy, so I would advise you on the day which beach will be best pending weather.
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