How Timing Works
When will the shoot be? Around sunset – unless you tell me otherwise. I typically schedule sessions around sunset. You’ll find some general timeframes to keep in mind listed below. That said, if a different time works better for your schedule, like sunrise or something in between, just let me know!
As we get closer to the day, I’ll fine-tune the exact start time based on lighting and all the behind-the-scenes details — tides, wind, cloud cover, local events, and even traffic — so you can simply relax and look forward to your session. The goal? To find the perfect moment for natural, relaxed, and timeless images you’ll truly love.
Day Sessions: While sunrise and sunset offer the most flattering light, I’m also happy to shoot mid-morning or afternoon if that works better for you. No matter the time, I’ll make the most of the conditions to ensure your photos are beautiful. Just let me know your preference, and I’ll do my best to accommodate.
Sunset Sessions: The most popular option — and for good reason. Noosa is stunning at golden hour. Your session will be timed to begin during the golden light window based on the day’s sunset (see time window guide below), and adjusted slightly based on cloud cover and your package length. We usually meet at a nearby car park, start in a shaded area, then move to the beach as the light softens.
Sunrise Sessions: Expect an early start — often before dawn — but the peaceful atmosphere and soft morning light are worth it. Fewer people, calmer winds, and perfect beach conditions make this a magical time to shoot. We’ll meet in the dark at a designated car park and head to the beach just as the light begins. Timing will depend on sunrise and your session length.
Example Time Windows: I recommend keeping a two-hour window open. This flexibility helps us make the most of it.
When Will I Know the Exact Time? As your session date approaches, I’ll be in touch to confirm the exact start time. You won’t need to guess or figure anything out — I’ll keep you updated so it’s all stress-free.
| Month | Sunrise | Sunset |
|---|---|---|
| Jan | 5:00–7:00am | 4:45–6:45pm |
| Feb | 5:15–7:15am | 4:30–6:30pm |
| Mar | 5:30–7:30am | 4:30–6:30pm |
| Apr | 6:00–8:00am | 4:00–6:00pm |
| May | 6:15–8:15am | 3:30–5:30pm |
| Jun | 6:30–8:30am | 3:00–5:00pm |
| Jul | 6:45–8:45am | 3:00–5:00pm |
| Aug | 6:00–8:00am | 3:30–5:30pm |
| Sep | 5:15–7:15am | 4:00–6:00pm |
| Oct | 5:00–7:00am | 4:15–6:15pm |
| Nov | 4:45–6:45am | 4:30–6:30pm |
| Dec | 4:45–6:45am | 4:45–6:45pm |
Locations are based on your shoot time and chosen according to weather, tides, light, and accessibility
- How will I know where to meet you? As your session date approaches, I’ll be in touch to confirm the exact time and location to meet.
- Location examples: In the meantime, if you wish to visualise some options, I’ve included a gallery of my most-loved spots. Please note — some locations only work in the right conditions.
- Don’t worry: with 20+ years of experience in Noosa, I’ll recommend the best location and guide you every step of the way.
Sunset Locations *Most Popular*
My goal is to find a peaceful place where we can catch a glimpse of golden light as the sun sets over the western horizon.
I often recommend beaches north of the Main Beach ‘Middle’ Groyne (the central rock wall), as these access points are typically more spacious and relaxed than First Point or the Noosa National Park. When conditions allow, Noosa Spit and Noosa Dog Beach also offer a beautiful, open feel with fewer crowds. All of these spots are easily reached by driving north along Hastings Street into Noosa Woods and following Claude Batten Drive.
Click the map to enlarge
Sunrise Locations
For sunrise sessions, we’ll head to a wide, east-facing beach to make the most of the soft morning light.
When the ocean is calm, Castaways Beach is often my top pick — it’s quiet, natural, and beautifully lit in the early hours. If the wind is up, I may suggest a more sheltered alternative, like the northern end of Main Beach or another hidden gem nearby. Above all, I’ll choose a location that’s both visually stunning and comfortable for your family on the day.
Click the map to enlarge
Location 1
Noosa Spit Beach – ‘River’ Groyne (the river rock wall): Noosa Spit is a beautiful, ever-changing location at the river mouth. Because it’s tidal, the landscape shifts often — some days there’s a wide stretch of sand, and other times the beach can disappear entirely. For this reason, I only suggest it when conditions like tide, wind, and light are just right. It’s not a location I use often, but when it comes together, it’s stunning.
Location 2
Beach Access 14 & 15 – Noosa Main Beach South of the ‘Middle’ Groyne (the central rock wall)
Facing east to southeast. This orientation showcases the edge of Noosa National Park in the background, offering a dramatic coastal view with tree-covered cliffs faintly visible in the distance. I usually try to avoid photographing the crowds that gather in the pocket of Noosa Heads near First Point, but it could be fun to capture a few shots there for atmosphere!
Location 3
Beach Access 12 & 13 – Noosa Main Beach North of the ‘Middle’ Groyne (the central rock wall)
Located just north of the central rock wall (the Middle Groyne), Access 12 & 13 faces toward the river mouth and slightly northwest. This angle offers a scenic backdrop that includes a glimpse of the North Shore across the water, making it ideal for capturing softer lighting and a wider, open view of the coastline. The beach here tends to be a little more relaxed, with gentle curves leading toward the river entrance.
Location 4
Sunset Cove – Noosa Dog Beach
Noosa’s best west-facing beach for sunset. It offers a spacious setting with beautiful natural light. It’s ideal when conditions are calm and the tide is favourable. Please note, this beach is popular with dog owners, so dogs may be present during your session. I’ll recommend it when it suits your session best. When it works, it provides a stunning backdrop.
Location 5
Woods Bay & Secret Spots
Peaceful, tucked-away spots near the river, Woods Bay, can be lovely when the light and tide are right. They offer a small, calm, natural backdrop with a more secluded, vegetation feel. That said, it’s not always ideal — the light can be tricky, and there’s not always enough space or beach to work with. I’ll suggest them if it suits your session and the weather conditions.
Location 6
Sunshine, Sunrise, Castaways, Marcus, and Pergegian Beaches
These east-facing beaches are ideal for early morning shoots, offering stunning golden sunrises over the ocean. While they don’t provide a traditional sunset view—since the sun sets in the west behind coastal vegetation and homes—they still have something special to offer in the late afternoon. As the sun dips lower, typically about two hours before official sunset, the light softens beautifully, casting pastel hues across the sky and water. This creates a dreamy, flattering glow perfect for photography sessions with a softer, more romantic feel.
I often choose Castaways in particular, as it’s super accessible—there’s no need to navigate stairs, and the car park is just a short, easy walk from the beach.
Other locations
Location 7
Laguna Grove, Hidden Grove, Casuarina Gardens, & Maison La Plage Grove
These beautiful, parkland-style spaces are popular for weddings and events and technically require a booking and permit through Noosa Council. While I don’t plan full sessions here for that reason, we may be able to briefly use them — especially for a few shaded moments, if they’re unoccupied at the time. They can work well as a soft light transition before we head to the beach.
Location 8
First Point, Little Cove & Noosa National Park
While these iconic spots are undeniably beautiful, I don’t usually schedule sessions here. They’re often way too busy, the beach can sometimes disappear at high tide, and parking is extremely limited, which can make things feel stressful before we even begin. Instead, I’ll suggest quieter nearby locations that offer the same beauty, with a much more relaxed experience. If you’d still like to shoot here, I’m happy to accommodate when possible — please note an additional fee applies.
Location 9
Sunshine Coast Locations
Beyond Noosa, the Sunshine Coast offers a diverse mix of beaches. Sunrise and Peregian are quiet and open, great for natural, minimalist shots. Coolum features rugged headlands and surf vibes, while Marcoola and Mudjimba feel more secluded. Further south, Mooloolaba, Alex Headland, and Maroochydore offer lively esplanades and wide ocean views. Caloundra blends calm bays and surf beaches, with glimpses of the Glass House Mountains on clear days.
Location 10
Interstate & International Locations
I’ve been fortunate to photograph in diverse locations around Australia and the world, from the beaches of Bali, Fiji, and Brazil, to the rugged coastlines of South Africa and the Mediterranean charm of Spain, Greece, and Turkey. My work has also taken me to remote islands, the cultural landscapes of China and Japan, the tropical beauty of New Caledonia, and iconic spots across America. Each place brings its own light, texture, and rhythm — all of which shape the way I capture people and place.
