TOP 10 STUNNING WEDDING PHOTO SPOTS IN THE DANDENONG RANGES
You’ll cherish your wedding photos for a lifetime - discover the top 10 Dandenong Ranges wedding photo spots chosen by a professional Melbourne wedding photographer!
Hi, I am your location guide for the day and am a passionate professional <wedding photographer in Dandenong range. So, put your trust in me as I take you on this virtual guide to explore the best wedding photo locations for you in the Dandenong Ranges!
I've had the privilege of capturing stunning photos of couples at various locations in the magical Dandenong Ranges. But some spots truly stand out for creating lasting memories of your big day. The landscape and vistas provide the perfect backdrop to frame your love story in a way you'll cherish forever. How about you hop in and let me show you these top 10 fairy tale locations in the Dandenong Ranges through my wedding camera?
For Cherished Memories: 10 Fairy Tale Dandenong Ranges Wedding Photo Locations
My overview of the top 10 wedding photo locations in the Dandenong Ranges outlines their scenic backdrops, permit needs, and addresses to simplify your planning. So, 3..2..1, Let’s click!
1. ALFRED NICHOLAS GARDENS
Alfred Nicholas Gardens offers photo inspiration for capturing a couple's wedding day. As a wedding photographer, I love the storytelling opportunities this historic botanic garden provides. It is one of my favorite spots for wedding photos in the Dandenong Ranges. Wandering the themed gardens with a couple and seeing their joy in the history and horticultural wonders on display never fails to spark creative ideas for a wedding photo shoot.
The contrast of colours, landscaping, and styles provides endless inspiration for creative photography for wedding ceremony. From traditional posed shots amidst the roses to candid photos of couples wandering hand in hand down meandering garden paths, this magical place transforms wedding days into memories that will last a lifetime. However, a permit from Parks Victoria is required for wedding photography and videography.
Key Info of the ALFRED NICHOLAS GARDENS
- Address: 1A Sherbrooke Rd., Sherbrooke, VIC 3789
- Contact Number: 13 1963 (within Australia) or +613 6145 0211
- Wedding Photography Permit: $72.10/hour/member
Map:
See a real wedding at Alfred Nicholas Gardens.
2. RJ HAMER ARBORETUM
The R.J. Hamer Arboretum offers a breathtaking backdrop for a wedding photo shoot. Set amongst the rolling hills and distant mountain views of the Dandenong Ranges, these national park photos provide a tranquil forest setting perfect for capturing timeless wedding memories. It features clusters of mixed native and exotic tree species spread over 101 hectares. It lends itself to stunning photos with sweeping forest backdrops and dappled natural light. As a wedding photographer, I often suggest photos amongst the Japanese Cedar and northern hemisphere conifers, which burst into fiery colours during the peak wedding months of Spring and Summer, adding vibrant hues to photographs.
The Arboretum's bush setting also pairs beautifully with the rich cultural history of the Wurundjeri people, the traditional owners of this land. Including elements of this connection to the country in your wedding photos will fill them with deep meaning and spirituality for years to come. A permit is required for wedding photography and videography from Parks Victoria.
Key Info of the RJ HAMER ARBORETUM
- Address: 10 Chalet Rd., Olinda, VIC 3788
- Contact Number: 13 1963 (within Australia) or +613 6145 0211
- Wedding Photography Permit: $72.10/hour/member
Map:
See a real wedding at RJ HAMER ARBORETUM.
3. SHERBROOKE FALLS
As a wedding photographer, Sherbrooke Falls holds a special place in my heart. Away from the popular lookouts and tourist spots in the Dandenong Ranges lies Sherbrooke Falls, the perfect spot for capturing creative photography for wedding ceremony. Tucked away within the O'Donohue Picnic Ground lies a trail that winds its way down to the falls, passing towering Mountain Ash and tree ferns draped in hanging moss.
When a couple decides to include Sherbrooke Falls in their wedding photo shoot, I know we are in for a treat. The mossy grotto surrounding the falls, the towering tree ferns, and the sound of running water create an earthy backdrop that complements any bride and groom. I suggest walking the trails hand in hand, stopping to sit beside the creek, or swinging from branches overhanging the pool. These candid moments of joy and connection within nature often result in my favourite images from the day.
To me, Sherbrooke Falls holds the essence of rustic beauty and timeless romance that should be captured in Dandenong ranges wedding photography. However, permits for photography or filming are required.
Key Info of the SHERBROOKE FALLS
- Address: Odonohue Track, Sherbrooke, VIC 3789
- Contact Number: 13 1963 (within Australia) or +613 6145 0211
- Wedding Photography Permit: $72.10/hour/member
Map:
4. DANDENONG RANGES BOTANIC GARDENS
The Dandenong Ranges wedding photography at Botanic Gardens offers a truly magical setting. Wandering the many paths that crisscross the peaceful landscape, I always find new spots of heart-stopping beauty for capturing a bride and groom. From stunning views over the Yarra Valley to secluded gardens bursting with colour, the Botanic Garden photos tell a romantically beautiful visual story.
In spring and autumn, the Gardens truly come alive with an explosion of rhododendrons, azaleas, and camellias. The sea of blooms offers couples a backdrop of nature's finest art. A wedding couple strolling hand in hand down a path lined with blossoms creates images of pure romance. Serenity Point is my favourite spot for couple portraits. With its sculpted lawns opening up to the sweeping vista beyond, the ambience invites intimacy and reflection. Couples quietly gazing at the view and each other give me a chance to capture those quiet moments of joy and connection in your botanic garden photos. Though, a permit is required for wedding photography from Parks Victoria.
Key Info of the DANDENONG RANGES BOTANIC GARDENS
- Address: The Georgian Rd., Olinda, VIC 3788
- Contact Number: 13 1963 (within Australia) or +613 6145 0211
- Wedding Photography Permit: $72.10/hour/member
Map:
5. OLINDA FALLS
Olinda Falls is a magical location nestled in the lush rainforest of the Dandenong Ranges. Towering stringybark eucalyptus trees form a canopy above the cascading waterfalls, creating an enchanting backdrop for wedding photos. The romantic, rustic theme of the setting pairs perfectly with timeless nature-inspired wedding styles. Couples love being photographed under the waterfall itself or on the surrounding rocks and paths beside the misty ponds.
I recommend allotting at least an hour to shoot at Olinda Falls so you have time to explore different areas and capture photos from multiple angles.
Overall, Olinda Falls is one of my favorite spots in the Dandenong Ranges for capturing couples' love stories amidst the beautiful rainforest setting. The fresh, natural light filtering through the trees and the sounds of running water creates an atmosphere that puts my clients at ease, resulting in my most creative and heartfelt wedding photographs. A permit is required for wedding photography from Parks Victoria.
Contact Info of the OLINDA FALLS
- Address: Doughtys Rd., Olinda VIC 3788, Australia
- Contact Number: 13 1963 (within Australia) or +613 6145 0211
- Wedding Photography Permit: $72.10/hour/member
Map:
6. CLOUDEHILL GARDENS & NURSERY
Cloudehill Gardens & Nursery provides an enchanting setting for capturing timeless wedding photos. The terraced gardens, with their array of colourful borders, sculpted hedges, and signature Maples Court, always amaze me. The lovely, tranquil lawns and pavilions create a serene backdrop perfect for formal, candid, and creative photography for wedding ceremony. I call Maples Court 'my spot’ for couple portraits, with the stately Yokohama maples framing the timeless scene.
The Theatre Lawn provides a stunning backdrop with its towering copper beech tree. As a wedding photographer to me, photographing a wedding at Cloudehill captures not just a fleeting moment in time but the timeless themes of nature, love, and happiness that transcend the moment. The ever-changing garden provides a poetic backdrop that imbues each image with a deeper meaning to be treasured for years to come. A photography or filming permit is not required.
See real wedding at Cloudehill Garden & Nursery
Contact Info of the DANDENONG RANGES BOTANIC GARDENS
- Address: 89 Olinda-Monbulk Rd., Olinda, VIC 3788
- Contact Number: +61397511009
Map:
7. OLINDA TEA HOUSE
The moment you walk through the garden gates of the Olinda Tea House for wedding photos, you step back in time. Wooden walls and lattices decorated with ivy make a beautiful space filled with the colours and smells of lovely roses and other flowers in the green gardens. As I take pictures of the bride and groom against the backdrop of aged stone walls draped in ivy creepers, sweet scents fill the air. Tea sets and cups rest on worn wooden tables under the old verandah, much like an ordinary English country garden.
The big old trees and leafy ferns in the surrounding forest provide romantic shadows and shade for intimate moments between the new couple. I know the memories made here amidst the fragrance of roses, the songs of magpies, and the chirps of other birds will stay with the cherished photos for years to come. Country charm and rustic simplicity elegantly merge at the Olinda Tea House, creating romantic wedding photographs that capture timeless moments of love, including precious portraits with their alpacas. No permit is needed for wedding photography and filming.
Contact Info of the OLINDA TEA HOUSE
- Address: 86 Olinda-Monbulk Rd., Olinda, VIC 3788
- Contact Number: +61458996666
Map:
See a real wedding at Olinda Tea House.
8. SKYHIGH MT DANDENONG
Skyhigh Mt. Dandenong offers spectacular panoramic views of the sprawling Melbourne cityscape, making it an ideal wedding venue for couples who want memorable photos incorporating unique scenic backdrops. Located high up on Mt. Dandenong in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges, Skyhigh's award-winning restaurant and garden setting provide stunning natural lighting and foliage, perfect for romantic wedding photos filled with character and charm. The floor-to-ceiling windows in the function room flood the space with soft natural light, ideal for capturing warm, atmospheric portraits of the newlyweds and their loved ones. But the best part is venturing outside into the sprawling landscaped gardens —offering endless opportunities for creative environmental portraits and candid moments among the blossoms.
The soaring views of Melbourne from the garden terraces and gazebos will definitely make for stunning 'couple' shots to remember. This is one of those locations that will ensure my clients' complete satisfaction. Permits are not required.
Contact Info of the SKYHIGH MT DANDENONG
- Address: 26 Observatory Rd., Mount Dandenong, VIC 3767
- Contact Number: (03) 9751 0443
Map:
See a real wedding at Skyhigh MT Dandenong.
9. GLENFERN VALLEY BUSHLANDS
As a wedding photographer seeking the perfect location to capture the essence of love and nature's beauty, I can't help but be enchanted by the Glenfern Valley Bushlands in the Dandenong Ranges. This hidden gem exudes a rustic charm and a sense of wilderness that complements the spirit of every couple's special day. Nestled within the picturesque Dandenong Ranges, the Glenfern Valley Bushlands offers an idyllic setting for couples who desire a natural and intimate photoshoot. The theme of this location can be described as "rustic romance" – where towering eucalyptus trees, native flora, and meandering paths intertwine to create a dreamy backdrop.
I find myself drawn to this spot for its versatility and timeless appeal. Whether it's candid shots among the wildflowers, enchanting captures under the canopy of trees, or intimate portraits against a backdrop of serene greenery, the Glenfern Valley Bushlands promise a plethora of artistic opportunities. No permit is needed.
Contact Info of the GLENFERN VALLEY BUSHLANDS
- Address: Glenfern Rd., Upwey VIC 3158, Australia
- Contact Number: +61 1300 368 333
Map:
10. PUFFING BILLY RAILWAY
I also feel excited for the wedding couple who have chosen this whimsical venue. Rolling through the lush Dandenong Ranges on this historic railway will make for unforgettable wedding photos. The rumble and clatter of the old steam engine chugging up the hills create a nostalgic atmosphere. Couples looking for a vintage, whimsical theme will love the antique carriages and charming station stops.
As we pass through green forest tunnels and across creek ravines, the light filtering through the ti-tree and mountain ash creates a gorgeous golden hour glow, perfect for romantic portraits. And despite the vintage vibe, the open-sided carriages allow for modern, creative photography with the stunning natural backdrop as a focal point. The grassy lawns, lake views, and landscaped gardens offer plenty of picturesque spots. It is an ideal location for couples looking to integrate timeless elegance and adventure into their wedding photos. However, you may need permits for photography and filming here.
Key Info of the PUFFING BILLY RAILWAY
- Address: 1 Old Monbulk Rd., Belgrave, VIC 3160
- Contact Number: + 61 3 9757 0700
Map:
Top 10 Dandenong Ranges Photo Locations
| Dandenong Ranges Wedding Photo Locations | Styles | Approx. Photo Time | Permit | Weather |
| ALFRED NICHOLAS GARDENS | Adventurous, Scenic, & Natural | 40-60 mins | Yes | All |
| RJ HAMER ARBORETUM | Adventurous, Scenic, & Natural | 40-60 mins | Yes | All |
| SHERBROOKE FALLS | Rustic, Timeless, Romantic, & Natural | 40-60 mins | Yes | All |
| DANDENONG RANGES BOTANIC GARDENS | Historical, Botanical, & Artistic | 40-60 mins | Yes | All |
| CLOUDEHILL GARDENS & NURSERY | Vintage, Classical, & Timeless | 40-60 mins | No | All |
| OLINDA TEA HOUSE | Elegant, Urban, & Romantic | 60-80 mins | No | All |
| OLINDA FALLS | Scenic & Natural | 40-60 mins | Yes | All |
| SKYHIGH MT DANDENONG | Modern, Minimal & Elegant | 60-80 mins | No | All |
| GLENFERN VALLEY BUSHLANDS | Rustic & Romantic | 60-80 mins | No | All |
| PUFFING BILLY RAILWAY | Adventurous, Historical, & Classic | 60-80 mins | For some parts | All |
GUIDE ON FINDING THE PERFECT WEDDING PHOTO LOCATION
The location you choose for your wedding photos can make or break your memories. But if you follow some of my simple advice, I assure you that no one can stop you from having the best wedding photo shoot. It's just a few simple things; I have also seen photo shoots that failed. But yours won't trust me! So, SMILE PLEASE... 3..2..1, CLICK!
SCOUT LOCATIONS AHEAD OF TIME
I always recommend that my couples scout potential wedding photo locations months before their big day. Visit the spots at different times of day to see how light impacts the visuals. Start by considering your ceremony venue. The garden, courtyard, or dining hall often provide amazing backgrounds with unique details. Importantly, choose a backup location keeping these factors in mind:
- Weather: have a backup plan if it rains.
- Surroundings: avoid locations with traffic, noise, or disrepair.
- Activity: Choose spots that allow you to focus on each other.
THINK ABOUT THE AESTHETIC YOU WANT
Rustic weddings call for farms and fields. Beach weddings need ocean views. City weddings work well in parks and gardens. Look for locations with interesting backdrop elements like gardens, water features, or architectural details. Mix it up with both outdoor and indoor spots. Outdoor gardens, parks, and beaches make for classic wedding photos, while buildings with architecture, staircases, and hallways work wonderfully inside. Avoid spots with visual clutter that may distract from your images.
Most importantly, choose a place that reflects your couple. The location should speak to their love story, personalities, and aesthetics as a couple. With the right spot and a creative eye, your wedding photos will become happy memories to cherish for a lifetime.
HIRE A PHOTOGRAPHER EARLY
Book your photographer at least 3–4 months before the wedding. They can help you scout and choose the best photo locations that suit your style. Their experience and knowledge will definitely help you make the right calls. Plus, they are professionals; hear out their ideas and what they have to say, and be flexible.
LOGISTIC
Think about ease of access, proximity to the ceremony, parking availability, and how much time you'll have to spend at each spot. The easier a location is to photograph, the better the photos will turn out. Importantly, prepare for permissions. Some public spaces, like parks, require permits for professional photo shoots. Check the rules and get permits if needed well in advance.
BUDGET EXTRA TIME
Wedding days are hectic. Plan at least 30–60 minutes at each photo location to ensure you get all the shots you want with minimal stress. Consider how long it will take to transport the entire wedding party between locations. Allow enough buffer time between ceremonies and receptions.
Finally, with careful planning and scouting, we'll find the perfect place to capture your love on your special day. I look forward to helping you choose a location that creates truly meaningful photographs.
WHEN SHOULD WE DO OUR WEDDING LOCATION PHOTOS?
The best time to do your wedding location photos is 2 to 3 hours before the ceremony starts. This allows:
- Enough time for guests to arrive and get seated.
- You and your partner to freshen up and prepare for the ceremony after your photos.
- The photographer is to finish any remaining shots and pack up before the ceremony.
- Optimal lighting conditions - shooting earlier in the day ensures you have natural light for photos.
- Minimizing conflicts with your wedding schedule and timeline.
WHERE SHOULD WE DO OUR WEDDING LOCATION PHOTOS?
The most meaningful and photogenic wedding location photo spots are:
- The place you first met or had your first date: Capturing photos of where your relationship began has sentimental value.
- Your family homes: Photos in front of both of your childhood homes show your shared history, and it sounds nostalgic.
- Favourite shared spots: Parks, cafes, or any place you spend time together as a couple.
- The wedding venue itself: Inside, outside, and the surrounding grounds.
- Nearby scenic backdrops: Landscapes, gardens, architecture, and street scenes to make your photos unique, beautiful, and memorable.
HOW MANY WEDDING PHOTO LOCATIONS SHOULD WE TAKE PHOTOS AT?
Ideally, you want to limit the number of wedding location photo spots to 3 to 5 key areas. This:
- Allows enough time at each location for a good variety of poses and emotions in your photos.
- Prevents your location photo session from dragging on and running behind schedule.
- Aligns with a typical 2 to 3-hour pre-ceremony timeframe for location photos.
- Reflects the most meaningful places to you as a couple without becoming too extensive or exhausting.
Wedding Photo Locations In Dandenong Ranges Don’t Require A Permit.
Here are my recommendations for gorgeous permit-free wedding photo spots in the Dandenong Ranges:
- CLOUDEHILL GARDENS & NURSERY: The botanical gardens and grounds here offer beautiful natural backdrops for pictures. The ponds, lawns, and pathways are ideal locations for a variety of photos without needing a permit.
- OLINDA TEA HOUSE: The charm of the historic tea house, combined with the surrounding gardens and views of the Dandenong Valley, makes this a lovely spot for wedding photography.
- MARYBROOKE MANOR: The historic homestead, manicured gardens, and grounds at Marybrooke Manor offer classic photo opportunities in an English country estate-style setting.
- SKYHIGH MT. DANDENONG: The views from Skyhigh looking over the Dandenong Valley and ranges would make for stunning backdrop photos on your wedding day.
- STONEHURST OF SASSAFRAS: The expansive gardens, grounds, and Wilson's Promontory views at Stonehurst provide beautiful natural settings for wedding photos without needing a permit.
PERMIT-REQUIRED WEDDING PHOTO LOCATIONS IN DANDENONG RANGES
These are some iconic permit-required wedding photo locations in the Dandenong Ranges worth considering for the awe factor they can bring to your photos.
- ALFRED NICHOLAS GARDENS: The perfectly manicured topiaries, hedges, and garden features make for classic wedding photo backdrops.
- RJ HAMER ARBORETUM: The expansive collection of rare and beautiful trees, cascading wisteria, and peaceful pathways provide stunning natural aesthetics ideal for wedding portraits.
- SHERBROOKE FALLS: The secluded natural setting nestled in the ranges provides an enchanting backdrop for bridal portraits.
- DANDENONG RANGES BOTANIC GARDENS: The vast array of garden zones, from English style to bamboo groves, offer unique backdrops for creative wedding photos.
- PUFFING BILLY RAILWAY: While the scenic railway ride itself does not require a permit, formal wedding photographs along the tracks and stations do. But the historic steam train adds a nostalgic aesthetic to the Dandenong Ranges wedding photos.
BACKUP WEDDING PHOTO LOCATION IN DANDENONG RANGES FOR WET WEATHER CONDITIONS
Here are my recommendations for the best indoor backup photo locations in the Dandenong Ranges for wet weather:
- VOGUE BALLROOM
The grand ballroom and function rooms at Vogue Ballroom make ideal alternate indoor photo locations. The high ceilings, columns, chandeliers, and parquet floors provide classic backdrops perfect for seamlessly transitioning your wedding photos indoors if it rains on your big day.
2. CHATEAU WYUNA
The historic mansion and gardens at Chateau Wyuna offer stunning outdoor photography spots. But the manor house, with its grand entry hall, library, and sitting rooms, also serves as an indoor alternative should the weather turn unfavorable. The elegant decor and high ceilings make for timeless interior wedding photos.
3. AVALON CASTLE
Known for large weddings, Avalon Castle features multiple indoor function rooms and ballrooms that become perfect alternate photo spots in wet conditions. The castle-themed decor with turret archways, banquettes, and amber lighting adds to the ambience for creative indoor wedding photos if outdoor options are compromised.
BEST CAR SHOOT WEDDING PHOTO LOCATIONS IN DANDENONG RANGES
The best car shoot wedding photo locations in the Dandenong Ranges that I personally suggest would be:
- OLINDA FALLS CAR PARK: The car park overlooks the waterfall and has plenty of room to arrange your wedding vehicle. The lush green surroundings and rocks provide nice backgrounds for photos.
- PUFFING BILLY RAILWAY STATION: The historic railway station and gardens make for a picturesque scene. Plenty of space to position the car and capture photos with the Puffing Billy steam train in the background.
- SKYHIGH TEA HOUSE: The car park overlooks the mountain range landscape. Freshly fallen leaf litter on the ground provides textural interest in photos. Wedding parties can enjoy high tea while you shoot.
- SHERBROOKE FOREST PICNIC AREA: Large cleared area with tall eucalyptus trees and forest ferns in the background. Plenty of space to shoot from multiple angles and minimal crowds.
RECOMMEND WEDDING PHOTO LOCATIONS FOR MODERN AND ELEGANT WEDDING
Of all the weddings I have done in the Dandenong Ranges; these are wedding photo locations that stand out for a modern and elegant wedding vibe:
- OLINDA TEA HOUSE AND GARDENS: The manicured gardens and landscaping at Olinda Tea House provide a sophisticated yet whimsical setting for photos. The tea house itself has an elegant style that would serve as a beautiful backdrop.
- SKYHIGH MT. DANDENONG OBSERVATORY: The sleek, modern design of the observatory contrasted with the natural mountain backdrop would make for striking photos with a contemporary aesthetic. The surrounding lawns and gardens are also well-maintained.
- STONEHURST OF SASSAFRAS GARDENS: The landscaped gardens with geometric patterns, hedges, and topiaries at Stonehurst would provide a staid yet modern environment for photos. The gardens themselves have an air of sophistication.
HOW LONG SHALL I ALLOCATE FOR WEDDING PHOTO LOCATIONS?
I recommend allocating at least 2–3 hours for outdoor wedding photo locations. This allows time for setting up the scene, posing your couple and wedding party, and taking enough photos from various angles and compositions. For multiple locations, you'll need more time; I'd recommend a full 4-6 hours or at least 2 days to cover 2-3 different spots.
A PRO TIP FOR CHOOSING WEDDING PHOTO LOCATION
The PRO Tip that I want to give you all is to choose locations that reflect you as a couple. Rather than just the most picturesque spots, ensure the locations have special significance or meaning for you. This could be where you had your first date, somewhere that reminds you of a special memory together, or simply a place that reflects your shared interests and personalities. Meaningful locations will shine through in your photos, making them eternal memories.
CREATING LASTING MEMORIES STARTS HERE AT - TREE STUDIO!
A wedding is more than one day; it's the beginning of a lifetime together. Let our expert photographers capture the joy, beauty, and romance so you can treasure those sacred moments forever. Trust us! When we say it, we mean it!
Contact us today for a free consultation at 0420 296 586.
Your wedding photos will be treasured for a lifetime. Discover the top 10 wedding photo spots in the Dandenong Ranges, carefully selected by a professional Melbourne wedding photographer! Each location offers unique and breathtaking backdrops, ensuring your wedding memories are beautifully captured.
