In November, I landed a shoot in Gippsland Victoria. Visit Victoria sent me to document the landscapes, beaches and activities in the region. I love receiving a brief that is open to my creative interpretation, so I had a lot of freedom for the week I was there.

Below are a few shots that I hope inspire you to get out there!

I based myself out of Lakes Entrance in East Gippsland for the beginning of the trip. I spent my time shooting at in around Lakes, Lake Tyers, 90 Mile Beach, Metung and Paynesville. I had such an incredible time here, a part of me really fell in love with the seclusion, laid back lifestyle and how stunning the beaches and lakes were.

A highlight for me was the day spent sailing on the Gippsland Lakes, thanks to the team at Riviera Nautic. I boarded at Metung, and ventured to various spots across the lakes. A variety of boats can be hired with or without a driver. Seeing the lakes from this perspective should really be on everyone’s to-do list.

Note: There are a lot of holiday houses up this way, so don’t come up on a long weekend if you’re after some down-time, certain spots on and near the water get busy!

As a photographer, you’re at the mercy of the weather; I was lucky this time-round, missing those crazy Spring storms by a week! Phew! The light during the days was clean and crisp, and golden hour in these parts was ever-so dreamy. There’s something about those orange and yellow hues that made you want to stay for the Summer.

For the second half of the trip, I based myself from the quaint little town of Mirboo North back in West Gippsland. Surrounded by rolling hills, farming, dairy producers and breathe-taking national parks, this was a complete change of scenery to Lakes. Take Grand Ridge Road to Mirboo North (a 4WD is necessary, the road are unsealed in parts).

There is tonnes of wildlife in Gippsland (kangaroos, koalas, echidnas, wombats – all which I saw!) but drive carefully, as they’re out and about, especially en-route to the national parks. I spent time shooting at Blue Pool in Briagolong, Tarra Bulga National Park and Toorongo Falls. These spots are so close to Melbourne and would make the perfect weekend away for those in need of a nature fix!

One of my favourite things about my job are the places I’m sent to shoot, and the people I meet along the way. I can’t wait to get back to Gippsland later this year and keep exploring!

Hit me up for more tips or recommendations.

x JW

Article in collaboration with Visit Victoria.