Where Is the Best Place for a Family Photoshoot in Busselton? A Local Guide to the South West's Most Beautiful Locations


If you're searching for the best place for a family photoshoot in Busselton, you're certainly spoilt for choice. The South West of Western Australia is home to some of the country's most breathtaking scenery, from pristine white-sand beaches and rugged coastlines to towering forests and tranquil bushland.


As a local Busselton family photographer, one of the questions I'm asked most often is:


"Where should we have our family photos taken?"


The answer really depends on the style you're dreaming of. Whether you love the beach, the forest, or something a little more adventurous, here are some of my favourite family photography locations across Busselton, Dunsborough, Margaret River and the South West.


Busselton Foreshore

The Busselton Foreshore is one of the most popular family photography locations in the South West, and it's easy to see why.

With calm waters, soft white sand, shady parklands and the iconic Busselton Jetty, this location offers plenty of variety without needing to travel between spots. It's especially perfect for families with young children, as there's room to run, play and explore while creating natural, candid photographs.

Sunset is particularly beautiful here, with Geographe Bay often treating us to soft pastel skies and calm reflections across the water.

Best for:

  • Families with toddlers
  • Holidaying families
  • Extended family sessions
  • Classic beach photography



Meelup Beach

Located just outside Dunsborough, Meelup Beach is one of the South West's most picturesque beaches.

Its crystal-clear turquoise water, smooth granite boulders and sheltered shoreline make it a stunning location for relaxed family photography. The calm conditions are ideal for little ones who enjoy paddling in the shallows, while the surrounding native bush adds beautiful texture and variety to your gallery.

Golden hour at Meelup is simply magical, with warm light dancing across the bay as the sun begins to set.

Best for:

  • Young families
  • Summer sessions
  • Calm beach settings
  • Coastal holiday memories


Eagle Bay

If you're looking for uninterrupted coastline and breathtaking ocean views, Eagle Bay is hard to beat.

The long stretches of white sand, sparkling blue water and rolling coastal dunes create a timeless backdrop that feels effortlessly relaxed. Because the beach is so expansive, it's easy to find a quiet spot, even during the busier holiday periods.

Eagle Bay is perfect for families who love walking barefoot along the shoreline, collecting shells and simply enjoying time together.

Best for:

  • Natural, candid photography
  • Families visiting Dunsborough
  • Wide-open coastal scenery



Sugarloaf Rock

For something a little more dramatic, Sugarloaf Rock offers one of the most iconic coastal landscapes in Western Australia.

Towering limestone cliffs, crashing waves and panoramic ocean views create a spectacular backdrop that's completely different from the region's calm beaches.

This location is best suited to families with older children who enjoy exploring, as the rocky landscape adds adventure and incredible variety to your images.

Best for:

  • Dramatic coastal landscapes
  • Older children
  • Sunset photography
  • Adventurous families


Yallingup

Yallingup is famous for its incredible coastline, and it's easy to understand why.

From sandy coves and rugged limestone formations to coastal dunes and native vegetation, Yallingup offers an amazing variety of scenery in one location. Every visit feels different, making it one of my favourite places to photograph families.

Whether your children are splashing in the water, climbing over rocks or wandering through the dunes, Yallingup captures the relaxed South West lifestyle beautifully.

Best for:

  • Beach lovers
  • Families wanting a mix of scenery
  • Natural, playful moments



Boranup Forest

If beaches aren't your style, Boranup Forest is one of the most magical family photography locations in the South West.

Located just south of Margaret River, this magnificent karri forest is famous for its towering trees, peaceful atmosphere and winding forest roads. Walking beneath these giant trees feels like stepping into another world, making it an unforgettable setting for family portraits.


One of the things I love most about Boranup Forest is the way the light filters through the towering karri trees, creating soft, golden beams that add warmth and depth to every photograph. The earthy tones, native ferns and quiet surroundings make it a beautiful choice for families wanting something timeless and unique.


It's particularly stunning during autumn and winter when the forest is lush and vibrant, but it photographs beautifully all year round.

Children love exploring the forest, collecting leaves and discovering the natural surroundings, which helps create genuine smiles and authentic moments without anyone feeling like they're posing.

If you're visiting Margaret River, Augusta or Busselton, Boranup Forest is well worth the drive and offers a completely different backdrop to the beaches the South West is famous for.

Best for:

  • Nature-loving families
  • Autumn and winter sessions
  • Maternity photography
  • Families wanting a unique forest backdrop
  • Relaxed, earthy photographs



Local Bush Locations Around Busselton

Not every beautiful location needs to be on the coast.

The Busselton region is home to several peaceful bush locations featuring peppermint trees, native grasses and beautiful filtered sunlight. These hidden gems provide a quiet, natural setting that feels warm and timeless.

Bush sessions are also a fantastic alternative on windy days and create a completely different look to beach photography while still showcasing the beauty of the South West.

Best for:

  • Families wanting privacy
  • Earthy, neutral colours
  • Year-round photography


Which Location Is Right for Your Family?

The best location comes down to the style of photographs you'd love to look back on for years to come.

If you're dreaming of calm turquoise water, Meelup Beach and Eagle Bay are perfect choices. If dramatic coastal scenery is more your style, Sugarloaf Rock offers breathtaking ocean views. Families wanting a classic South West beach session will love Busselton Foreshore or Yallingup, while those looking for something truly unique should consider the towering karri trees of Boranup Forest or one of the beautiful bush locations around Busselton.

One of the best things about living and photographing families in the South West is the incredible diversity of landscapes. Within an hour's drive, you can choose between world-class beaches, ancient forests, rugged coastlines and peaceful bushland, each offering its own unique character and beauty.


Looking for a Family Photographer in Busselton or the South West?

I photograph families throughout Busselton, Dunsborough, Meelup, Eagle Bay, Yallingup, Margaret River, Boranup Forest, Bunbury, Cowaramup and across the South West of Western Australia.

If you're unsure which location would suit your family best, I'd love to help you choose the perfect setting based on your vision, your children's ages and the memories you'd like to create together.s.