Australia is a land of contrast: Travel photos covering the scenery!

I spent a year road tripping around Australia, and the thing that got me the most about this country, other than its sheer vastness, was the variety of scenery and sights on offer.

From desert-like sand dunes to tropical rainforest, from incredible beaches to splendid mountains, from natural gorges to man made artworks, Australia kept me enthralled. And I barely even made it to Queensland!

Though I run the risk of sounding like a clichéd brochure – Australia really does have something for everyone. Let me take you through some of the diverse sights I found whilst travelling in Oz, and let me know if you agree!

This is a guest post from Laurence of Finding The Universe. His site is one of my favourite travel blogs as I’m often blown away by his incredible photography:

Australia: Land of Contrast in Photos

#1) Uluru Rock at Sunset

“I thought I’d start with a classic. This is Uluru at sunset. It’s a bloody long way from anywhere, and it’s “just a rock”… but wow. What a rock!”

Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is Australia’s most iconic natural landmark. Situated in the heart of the Northern Territory, this massive sandstone monolith holds not just geological significance but also deep cultural and spiritual meaning for the Anangu people, the traditional owners of the land. While Uluru is spectacular at any time of day, experiencing it at sunset is something truly special. There’s a sense of magic that comes alive as the fading sunlight transforms the rock’s surface through an incredible palette of colors.

• Golden glow: Uluru shines in vibrant yellows and oranges as the sun sets.
• Deep red phase: The rock turns into a glowing crimson just before twilight.
• Final fade: As night approaches, soft purples and browns take over the rock’s surface.

Tip: Take time to learn about the Anangu people and their connection to Uluru before your visit. It will add depth to your experience.

#2) Great Ocean Road In The State Of Victoria

“Australia is home to one of the worlds greatest road trips, along the Great Ocean Road in the state of Victoria. These rock outcrops are part of the Twelve Apostles, which is arguably the highlight of the road trip.”

The Great Ocean Road, stretching along the southern coast of Victoria, Australia, is often considered one of the most scenic drives in the world. With its dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, lush rainforests, and iconic landmarks, the Great Ocean Road offers endless opportunities to capture stunning landscapes. Along the 243-kilometer stretch you’ll find distinct vantage points and breathtaking views that inspire both amateur and professional photographers alike.

The Twelve Apostles are, without a doubt, the crown jewel of the route. These towering limestone stacks rise majestically from the Southern Ocean, and the best time to photograph them is during sunrise or sunset, when the light adds warm tones to the rock formations.

• Twelve Apostles: Iconic limestone stacks best photographed at sunrise or sunset.
• Loch Ard Gorge: Capture the interplay of water, cliffs, and sandy beach.
• Great Otway National Park: Perfect for long-exposure waterfall photography.

Tip: Don’t just focus on the major landmarks—some of the smaller, lesser-known beaches along the Great Ocean Road offer incredible photographic opportunities

#3) Coastal Rainforest in the Otways

“When I thought of Australia before I visited, lush verdant forest was not the first thing that sprang to mind. I was, it turns out, entirely wrong. Forests like this coastal rainforest in the Otways are spectacularly green and eminently explorable. Hurrah!”

Tucked away along the southern coast of Victoria, Australia, the Otway Ranges (also known as the Otways) offer a unique experience for traveler photographers seeking natural beauty. The coastal rainforest within the Great Otway National Park is one of the most enchanting landscapes in the region, filled with towering trees, flowing waterfalls, and lush plant life.

The Otways are an ever-changing environment, where soft light filters through dense canopies and moss-covered rocks seem to glow with life. From macro photography of intricate ferns to wide-angle shots of cascading waterfalls, the rainforest offers endless opportunities to create unforgettable images.

The light in the Otways is magical, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Sunbeams pierce through the canopy, creating patterns of light and shadow that dance along the forest floor. Even on overcast days, the soft, diffused light gives the forest a moody, ethereal atmosphere, perfect for capturing the deep greens of moss-covered trees and ferns. Rain, too, can enhance the scene. A light drizzle makes the leaves glisten, adding a reflective quality that makes your photos look alive with texture. It’s the kind of environment where you don’t need perfect weather to take beautiful photos—the forest works with whatever the sky gives you.

• Morning light: Capture the forest awakening as sunlight filters through the canopy.
• Overcast days: Use the soft light to highlight details in the foliage.
• Rainy moments: Embrace the wet conditions to create reflective, atmospheric photos.

Tip: Bring a lens hood or microfiber cloth to keep your gear dry if you’re shooting in misty or rainy conditions.

#4 Painted Desert near underground mining towm of Coober Pedy

“Now this is more the Australia that I imagined, although I never thought that the outback could be quite so weirdly colourful. This is the Painted Desert, just outside the underground mining town of Coober Pedy. It’s not hard to see where the name came from!”

The Painted Desert, located near the quirky underground mining town of Coober Pedy in South Australia, is one of the most surreal landscapes in the Outback. Known for its vibrant, multi-colored hills and ancient geological formations, this remote desert offers photographers unmatched opportunities to capture the rugged beauty of the Australian Outback.

The Painted Desert’s striking colors are the result of millions of years of erosion and weathering, revealing layers of ochre, red, orange, and white sediment. The hills appear as though they’ve been brushed by an artist’s hand. It’s this variety of hues and textures that makes the desert so captivating to photograph.

The rock formations and rolling hills stretch out endlessly, creating compositions that look like they belong on another planet. You can experiment with different focal lengths—wide-angle lenses capture the vastness of the desert, while telephoto lenses highlight the intricate layers of the hills.

• Rich layers of color: Capture reds, oranges, and ochres that shift throughout the day.
• Endless horizons: Use wide-angle lenses to emphasize the vastness of the desert.
• Detailed rock formations: Zoom in on the textures and patterns in eroded hills.

Tip: Plan your visit during early morning or late afternoon to make the most of the golden hour light, which enhances the vibrant colors of the desert.

#5) Antony Gormley’s “Inside Australia” piece, in Western Australia

“The massive scale of the Australian outback means that there is plenty of room for plopping a bit of art here and there without bothering anyone. This is Antony Gormley’s “Inside Australia” piece, which spans ten square kilometers on a dry salt lake in Western Australia. It is, as with many attractions in Australia, a long way from anywhere. Still worth the visit though!”

This awe-inspiring piece stretches across ten square kilometers, featuring 51 life-sized sculptures that seem to rise out of the cracked salt bed, blending with the arid landscape. For photographers it’s an opportunity to capture the interaction between art, landscape, and light in one of the most remote locations on the planet.

Antony Gormley’s “Inside Australia” installation was designed to reflect the landscape and people of Lake Ballard. Each of the 51 sculptures is based on a 3D scan of a resident from the nearby town of Menzies, but with the figures elongated and abstracted, giving them an otherworldly appearance. These sculptures are positioned across the salt lake, spaced apart so that visitors must walk from figure to figure, experiencing both the artwork and the landscape together.

This installation encourages photographers to think creatively about composition. The sculptures stand starkly against the flat, cracked salt surface, providing striking contrasts that are perfect for minimalist photography. At the same time, the sheer size of the installation—spread over ten square kilometers—invites photographers to play with perspective and scale, making each sculpture appear both tiny and monumental depending on how it’s framed.

• Abstract forms: Capture the surreal shapes of the sculptures.
• Vast spaces: Use wide angles to convey the enormity of the landscape.
• Interaction with the land: Frame sculptures with elements of the salt lake’s terrain.

Tip: Arrive an hour before sunrise or sunset to find the best spots to frame your photos. The changing light can transform the mood of the entire installation in just a few minutes.

#6) Top of the “Castle” in Morten National Park across to the New South Wales coastline

“I mentioned mountains I believe. This is the view from the top of the “Castle” in Morten National Park across to the New South Wales coastline. This walk was probably one of the toughest day hikes I’ve ever done, and was my favourite day hike in Australia.”

Perched within Morton National Park in New South Wales, The Castle is one of the most challenging hiking destinations along the NSW coastline. However, this imposing rock formation offers more than just a tough hike—it’s an ideal location for photographers. With rugged cliffs, lush valleys, and panoramic views stretching all the way to the coast, The Castle provides a range of opportunities to capture stunning landscapes and dramatic skies. 

The Castle’s rugged rock formations and steep cliffs make it an ideal subject for wide-angle photography. The contrast between rocky outcrops, dense forests, and open skies creates natural compositions that feel grand and cinematic. From the summit, photographers can capture sweeping views of Morton National Park’s valleys, rivers, and distant coastline. It’s a landscape that invites creative framing and experimentation.

The challenge of the hike adds a layer of adventure to the photography experience. Reaching the summit involves climbing, scrambling, and traversing exposed sections. But the reward at the top is worth every step. Golden hour light on the cliffs transforms the landscape into a palette of warm hues, while cloudy days lend a moody, mysterious atmosphere to the scene.

• Wide vistas: Capture the expansive views stretching toward the coastline.
• Rock formations: Use the natural cliffs to frame your shots creatively.
• Dramatic skies: Enhance your compositions with clouds and changing light.

Tip: Arrive early to scout your vantage points—the best light doesn’t last long, and preparation ensures you capture the perfect shot.

#7) Outback Storms!

“Being British, it would be remiss of me to talk about a place without mentioning the weather. Outback storms can be fierce and seriously dramatic – as this one was! The brunt of it hit camp seconds after I got this shot, and washed my tent away. I slept in the car.”

Outback storms are known for their dramatic skies, towering cumulonimbus clouds, and powerful lightning displays, creating an ideal setting for photographers who seek bold, atmospheric shots. Capturing these weather events is not just about taking photos; it’s an adventure in itself. Hence, it requires patience, planning, and a sense of awe for unpredictable nature.

Whether you love landscape photography, lightning captures, or time-lapse sequences, there’s something truly exhilarating about chasing a storm across the endless horizons of the Outback. The Outback’s wide, open landscapes provide an ideal canvas for storm photography.

Without the clutter of urban structures or dense forests, storms are fully visible from miles away. Photographers can watch as massive thunderclouds form, swirling and growing in size until they release rain, lightning, and thunder in an awe-inspiring display. Storm chasers often describe the sight as nothing short of nature’s art in motion.

What makes photographing storms so rewarding is the unpredictability. One moment, the sky can be filled with ominous clouds; the next, a streak of lightning slices through the darkness. The changing light and weather conditions offer endless ways to experiment with your shots.

• Cumulonimbus clouds: Capture the towering structures forming on the horizon.
• Lightning strikes: Freeze the moment with high-speed photography.
• Changing conditions: Embrace unpredictability for dynamic shots.

Tip: Use a remote shutter release for lightning photography—it helps you capture the moment without camera shake.

#8) Red Sand of The Outback meets the sea in Francois Perron National Park – Western Australian coastline

“The outback is a red place. Really really red. In this shot the red sand of the outback meets the sea in Francois Perron National Park, on the Western Australian coastline. The black line along the coastline is a flock of comorants. WA is the less popular coastline in Australia for travellers, but it really deserves some serious attention.”

Where else in the world can you witness the red sands of the Outback colliding with the turquoise waters of the ocean? Located on the Shark Bay World Heritage Coast in Western Australia, Francois Peron National Park offers one of the most visually striking landscapes you’ll ever encounter. The vivid contrast between the rich, ochre-colored dunes and the sparkling blue sea creates an ideal scene for photographer’s.

The deep, rusty reds of the desert blend seamlessly with the brilliant blues and greens of the Indian Ocean, creating a palette that feels almost unreal. This contrast is especially striking under the intense Australian sunlight.

The best times to shoot are during the early morning and late afternoon, when the soft, golden light enhances the vibrancy of the sand and water. Midday, although harsh, also offers unique photographic opportunities. Shadows are minimal, and the direct light brings out every fine detail in the dunes and shoreline, making them appear almost three-dimensional.

• Red dunes meet turquoise seas: Capture the vibrant clash of colors at the shoreline.
• Golden hour magic: Soft, warm light enhances the natural hues of the landscape.
• Midday light: Highlight textures and patterns in the sand and sea.

Tip: Bring a polarizing filter to reduce glare from the water and emphasize the richness of the colors in your shots.

#9) Impressive Beaches at Hellfire Bay in the Cape Le Grand National Park in Western Australia

“Speaking of beaches, Australia has no shortage of these, with some seriously impressive beaches to be found all around its coastline. This is Hellfire Bay in the Cape Le Grand National Park in Western Australia.”

Nestled along the rugged southern coast of Western Australia, Hellfire Bay in Cape Le Grand National Park offers photographers an exceptional mix of white sand, turquoise waters, and granite headlands. Known for its untouched beauty and serene atmosphere, this beach is a must-visit for anyone seeking to capture the raw magic of Australia’s coastline.

The moment you arrive at Hellfire Bay, you’re greeted by soft white sand that squeaks underfoot and water so clear it looks like glass. The contrast between the bright sand, turquoise sea, and the dark, weathered rocks makes shots especially pop.

The changing tides also offer exciting opportunities to experiment with different compositions. At low tide, photographers can capture mirrored reflections on the wet sand. Meanwhile, high tide brings waves crashing against the rocks, creating dynamic, action-packed shots. Every angle offers something unique—whether you’re shooting wide vistas of the entire bay or zooming in on the interplay of rocks and water.

• Granite headlands: Frame the landscape using the rugged cliffs for a dramatic effect.
• Tide variations: Experiment with reflections on wet sand and waves against the rocks.
• Color contrast: Capture the vivid blues and whites under the Australian sun.

Tip: Bring a polarizing filter to enhance the colors and reduce reflections from the water and sand.

#10) Aboriginal Rock Art

“Australia is a place with an incredible cultural history, having been populated by the Aboriginal people for over 40,000 years before the white man rocked up and, well. History does not paint a pretty picture. Rock art like this can be found in all sorts of places, and it is truly fascinating stuff.”

Australia’s ancient Aboriginal rock art sites are more than just historical treasures—they are windows into the oldest continuous culture on earth. For photographers, these sites offer a rare opportunity to capture meaningful connections between art, history, and landscape.

Found in remote gorges, rock shelters, and rugged cliffs, these artworks reflect the spiritual beliefs and cultural practices of Aboriginal peoples. Visiting these sites is more than a photography trip—it’s an immersive cultural experience that encourages photographers to approach their craft with respect, patience, and curiosity.

One of the most compelling aspects of Aboriginal rock art is how it blends seamlessly with the natural environment. These artworks are often painted, engraved, or etched onto rock surfaces in places that hold deep cultural significance. As a photographer, you have the unique opportunity to capture art and landscape together, revealing the connection between the people, the land, and their stories.

Some of the most famous sites, such as Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory and the Burrup Peninsula in Western Australia, feature intricate paintings and carvings that depict animals, ancestral beings, and ceremonial practices.

• Rock art in Kakadu: Frame paintings within the larger escarpments for dramatic shots.
• Burrup Peninsula petroglyphs: Capture carvings against the backdrop of rugged cliffs.
• Natural elements: Include plants, rocks, and sky to tell a more complete story.

Tip: Use a wide-angle lens to capture both the rock art and the surrounding landscape, emphasizing the connection between the two.

#11 Planehenge Outback Sculpture – Oodnadatta Track in South Australia

“Speaking of art, here’s another wacky bit of outback sculpture, found out on the Oodnadatta Track in South Australia. This one is called Planehenge.”

Hidden in the heart of South Australia’s Outback, along the legendary Oodnadatta Track, lies Planehenge—a quirky, surreal sculpture installation that’s all kinds of bizarre. Officially known as Mutonia Sculpture Park, Planehenge is a collection of recycled planes, old machinery, and abstract art installations created by artist Robin “Mutoid” Cooke.

Planehenge isn’t your typical tourist attraction. It’s an eclectic mix of large-scale sculptures. The centerpiece is a pair of light aircraft, tilted upright and buried nose-first in the desert like a twisted homage to Stonehenge. Surrounding them are rusted metal sculptures, giant bicycles, and abstract structures—all created from discarded materials salvaged from the Outback.

Photographers have endless opportunities to experiment with composition, angles, and framing. The contrast between the surreal sculptures and the vast desert landscape creates a sense of both immensity and absurdity. Thus, making it an ideal place for wide-angle shots and creative storytelling.

• Wide-angle shots: Capture the sculptures against the sprawling desert landscape.
• Close-up details: Focus on rusted textures and abstract patterns.
• Unusual perspectives: Experiment with angles to create surreal compositions.

Tip: Bring plenty of water, fuel, and supplies—the remote location means you’ll need to be self-sufficient during your visit.

#12 Waterfall Photography Down Under

“Sure, Australia can’t compete with other countries when it comes to waterfall scale, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in availability. If you like a good waterfall, then you’ll find plenty to get your waterfall on down under!”

Australia is known for its diverse landscapes, from red deserts to lush rainforests. But tucked within these wild places are distinct waterfalls. From powerful cascades tumbling down rocky cliffs to gentle streams trickling through dense rainforests, no two waterfalls are the same. This diversity allows photographers to explore a variety of moods and compositions, creating images that reflect both the dynamic and peaceful elements of water in motion.

• Tropical waterfalls: Visit Queensland’s Daintree Rainforest for lush backdrops and hidden falls.
• Mountain cascades: Explore Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain to capture waterfalls framed by rugged cliffs.
• Coastal waterfalls: Photograph waterfalls that flow straight into the ocean along New South Wales’ coast.

Tip: Research seasonal changes—some waterfalls are more vibrant after rainfall, while others offer calmer flows during the dry season, ideal for close-up photography.

#13 Outback Wave Rock – a giant rock formation that looks like a frozen wave

“I have to admit, I was a bit of a fan of the outback. This is the wave rock, a giant rock formation that looks like a frozen wave. There is all sorts of science behind its formation, but really, what you’ll want to do when you visit is pretend you’re surfing it. Far more fun than reading about geology.”

Towering at 15 meters (49 feet) high and stretching for 110 meters (360 feet) long, this natural wonder near the town of Hyden offers a unique experience for photographers. However, Wave Rock is not just about size—it’s about the patterns, light, and abstract compositions you can create as you photograph this natural marvel. It’s a place that encourages photographers to experiment with angles and lighting, creating images that convey both the grandeur and artistry of nature.

Wave Rock’s beauty lies in its unique shape and layered textures. Formed over 2.7 billion years, this rock formation features a curved granite wall, sculpted by erosion and weathering over millennia. The striations on the rock surface—bands of red, brown, yellow, and grey—give photographers ta canvas to play with contrast and composition.

The smooth, undulating shape of the rock makes it look like it’s flowing forward in perpetual motion, despite being frozen in place. For photographers, these natural curves create opportunities for dynamic, abstract compositions. You can focus on the play of shadows across the rock face, or zoom in to capture the fine details of the weathered surface.

• Layered colors: Use the natural striations to create high-contrast images.
• Flowing shapes: Frame the curves of the rock to mimic the movement of a wave.
• Textured close-ups: Capture weathered details that tell the story of erosion over billions of years.

Tip: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon—the light at these times enhances the colors and textures of the rock surface.

#14) Sunset at Lagoon Beach in Tazmania

“And really, I couldn’t finish without sharing a sunset photo. Here is a sunset at lagoon beach in Tasmania.”

Located on the northeast coast of Tasmania, Lagoon Beach offers an idyllic setting for photographers seeking sunset moments. This stretch of coastline, with its soft sand, gentle waves, and lagoon, transforms under the fading light of day. Photographing the sunset at Lagoon Beach is about more than just getting beautiful pictures. It’s about experiencing a sense of calm while witnessing the natural world shift from day to night.

The magic of sunset photography lies in the soft, warm light. At Lagoon Beach, the golden hour light creates a gentle glow over the water, highlighting the subtle movements of the waves and casting long shadows across the sand. Photographers have the chance to capture layers of warm tones—from golds and oranges to soft purples and blues.

The sky changes rapidly during sunset, offering new compositions with every passing minute. The reflections on the calm lagoon waters mirror the vibrant colors of the sky, doubling the impact of the scene and adding depth and symmetry to your images. It’s an ideal moment to experiment with different angles and play with the dynamic relationship between sky and water.

• Golden light: Capture the beach bathed in soft, glowing tones.
• Reflections in the lagoon: Use mirrored water to create symmetrical compositions.
• Rapid sky changes: Take advantage of evolving colors for multiple shots.

Tip: Set up before the sun begins to set—this gives you time to compose your shots and adjust settings as the light changes.

Distinct Travel Photos From Australia

And that’s it! I hope you enjoyed the photo essay – I’d love to hear your thoughts on the photos or Australia in the comments below!

Laurence. I’m a traveller, writer and photographer, slowly exploring the world on a trip I started in June 2009 after quitting the corporate life.

Laurence is a talented traveller, writer and photographer. Follow along with all of his adventures on his travel blog Finding The Universe, like his facebook fan page & follow him twitter.