Photo by Axioo

As far as Australia’s major cities go, Perth in Western Australia might struggle to keep up with the likes of Sydney and Melbourne in terms of size, but we promise you, this quiet cousin has a distinct charm and unique disposition all its own. With expansive landscapes and breathtaking natural sights that are a photographer’s dream, it’s no wonder Perth takes its place comfortably among the most beautiful destinations that Australia has to offer. Still not convinced? Perhaps these 12 locations will do the job. As they say, a picture is worth a thousand words…

Photo by Axioo

Photo by Sih Han Lim Photography

“I’m a big fan of Perth. Having worked and lived outside of Boston for 8+ years, Perth reminds me a lot of my good times in the States. The views from its various beaches and natural parks are simply breathtaking, and you get blue skies most of the time.” Sih Han Lim Photography

#01 Cottesloe Beach

One of Perth’s most well known and best loved beaches, Cottesloe Beach can get pretty busy on warm days, but don’t let that deter you. The views and lighting are virtually second to none if you go in the late afternoon or just before sunset, although you might want to give this a miss if the weather gets too windy. Go in March, and you might even be there for Sculpture by the Sea, an amazing annual sculpture exhibition.

Photo by Ben Yew Photography

Photo by Ben Yew Photography

Photo by Andy Phe Photography

“I personally love spring time in Perth due to its great weather and blooming of the city’s natural attractions/parks.” Andy Phe Photography

#02 Lancelin

Looking for something a little different? About an hour’s drive from Perth is Lancelin, a town that’s as well known for its extensive sand dunes as it is for windsurfing and rock lobster fishing. The sand dunes here are the largest in the state – around 2km long, ideal for sand boarding, and wonderful for taking photos of course!

Photo by Axioo

Photo by Axioo

Photo by Sidlefaye Photography

“Perth is a beautiful and relaxed city with many spectacular natural sights such as Lancelin, Pinnacles and Wave Rock. There are also magnificent beaches including Cottesloe Beach in Fremantle, or you could visit the breathtaking Swan Valley wineries and Margaret River. The best season to visit Perth is spring, when wild flowers are blooming everywhere and the daily temperature sits at around 20-25°C.” Sidlefaye Photography

#03 Rottnest Island

One of Perth’s most popular vacation spots, Rottnest Island is well known for its beautiful beaches, abundant Aussie wildlife, and the cute rock wallabies known as quokkas! If you’re an avid walker, the island has some first rate nature walks too. Catch a ferry to Rottnest Island: 25 minutes from Fremantle, 45 minutes from Hillarys Boat Harbour, or 90 minutes from Barrack Street Jetty.

Photo by Ben Yew Photography

Photo by Ben Yew Photography

Photo by Ben Yew Photography

#04 Lesmurdie Falls

Lesmurdie Falls in the Lesmurdie Falls National Park is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the area. Situated in the Perth Hills, it’s certainly not for the fainthearted. There’s a walking trail that starts at the top of the falls with a short walk to the viewing platform, or you can follow the trail all the way to the base of the falls. This goes without saying, watch your step!

Photo by Steven Cheah Photography

Photo by Steven Cheah Photography

#05 Pinnacles Desert

It’s a little bit of a drive – about three hours from Perth – but you won’t regret visiting Nambung National Park, home to the famous Pinnacles Desert. Here, the golden sands, wind sculpted forms and cloudless blue skies give rise to stark, striking photographs not often seen. Or visit between August and October, when colourful wildflowers blanket the earth, and you’ll have a completely different experience altogether.

Photo by Mustard Seed Photo

Photo by Mustard Seed Photo

Photo by Mustard Seed Photo

“Perth is a great place to visit as it offers some of the best beaches and landscapes I’ve ever seen. Perth boasts an amazing outdoors, so when you are here, you shouldn’t be shooting indoors, but explore our beautiful city instead! The best time to visit would be around spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May), and I always recommend that couples do their shoots in the late afternoon, as this is when they will get the most ideal ambient natural light.” Mustard Seed Photography

#06 Kent Street Weir Park

Part of the Canning River Regional Park, Kent Street Weir Park is very popular with locals, families and bridal couples. The river is a lovely spot, and for the young at heart, there’s also the Castledare Miniature Railway just nearby. Miniature train rides run only once a month, so be sure to check the schedule if you plan to hop on.

Photo by Steven Cheah Photography

#07 Fremantle

Located 30 minutes from the CBD, Fremantle, or “Freo” as the locals call it, is Perth’s port city. As rich in history as it is in art and culture, visitors can take a guided tram tour of the city, or explore the old buildings and fine architecture on foot. The Fremantle Prison is the state’s only World Heritage listed building, with the Fremantle Arts Centre, Fremantle Markets and Western Australian Maritime Museum being other top attractions.

Photo by Harvard Wang

“There’s always something timeless in Perth, be it an old, cracking wall in the middle of the city, Freo’s graffiti or the architecture of the University of WA.” Harvard Wang

Photo by Edwin Tan Photography

Photo by Axioo

#08 Alverstoke Barn

The Alverstoke Barn in Brunswick is the go-to destination for barn and/or country themed photoshoots and weddings. Situated right in the heart of dairy country, about 1.5 hours from Perth, it’s surrounded by lush green hills, farmland and a picturesque town. The Heritage Function Centre has a barn and restaurant for wedding celebrations, while the heritage rose garden promises some very pretty photos.

Photo by Ben Yew Photography

Photo by Ben Yew Photography

#09 Matilda Bay Boat House

Another fantastic site for wedding photographs, the Matilda Bay Boat House enjoys quite the reputation, and has even become an icon of sorts for Perth. To make things even more interesting, the jetty that leads to the distinctive blue house has been known to flood over on occasion in recent years. Great for photos, not so good for wedding gowns.

Photo by Multifolds Photography

Photo by Andy Phe Photography

#10 Caversham House, Swan Valley

One of the most beloved wedding and reception venues in the Swan Valley, Caversham House is well worth the drive (25 minutes) or ferry ride (cruise up the Swan River). Make sure you arrive hungry because the region boasts a wealth of fresh local produce and artisan foods, including fruits, nuts, honey, chocolate, cheese, wine and more. Enjoy the sights, and don’t forget to visit some of the art galleries and antique furniture stores in town.

Photo by Ben Yew Photography

“These are my fave places around Perth. It is really hard to pick, but my top three are Fremantle, Caversham and Laurelville, York.” Ben Yew Photography

Photo by Melissa’s Photography

#11 University of Western Australia (UWA)

Not surprisingly, UWA is one of the top choices when it comes to outdoor photoshoots and wedding photography in Perth. The European inspired architecture on campus makes for a magnificent backdrop, especially if you’re a fan of old buildings. Plus it’s only five minutes from the Perth CBD. Just remember that you will need to purchase a license to photograph here.

Photo by Ben Yew Photography

Photo by Andy Phe Photography

#12 Chittering

Less than an hour’s drive from Perth is Chittering, a rural town that’s definitely worth exploring as a photography destination. Chittering Valley is beautiful, especially when the wildflowers are in full bloom. Even better, you won’t have to worry about crowds.

Photo by Gary Wong Photography

Photo by Gary Wong Photography

AirAsia X, the World’s Best Low Cost Carrier, flies to Perth from Kuala Lumpur 11 times a week from only RM229 one way. Promo ends 17 April 2016.