3 Days in Melbourne: A Photographer's Guide to 9 Stunning Locations

After thorough research, I’ve cracked the code to Melbourne’s best-kept secrets. Skip the generic Great Ocean Road day trips—here’s how to experience the wild coast, enchanted forests, and golden hours like a pro. 🌟 DAY 1 | Great Ocean Road’s Epic Sunset ⏰ 12:00 PM: Private transfer from airport (4hr drive). ⏰ 5:00 PM: Twelve Apostles at sunset (most tours leave too early!). 📸 Pro tip: Use an 85mm lens to compress the sea stacks against fiery skies. The post-sunset glow is pure magic. 🏡 Stay overnight in a nearby coastal. 🌟 DAY 2 | Gibson Steps Sunrise + Buffalo Mountain ⏰ 7:00 AM: Race the tide down Gibson Steps—waves crashing against cliffs feel like the edge of the world. ⏰ 9:00 AM: Spontaneous detour to Mount Buffalo (6hr drive). Worth it for the snow-dusted summit at sunset! ❄️ 🌟 DAY 3 | Enchanted Forest + Vintage Steam Train ⏰ 7:00 AM: Black Spur Drive—foggy ferns transform this road into a dinosaur-era dreamscape. ⏰ 10:00 AM: Puffing Billy Steam Train (Book Belgrave → Lakeside). The wooden bridge’s S-bend is the money shot! 🚂 (Yes, you can dangle your legs!) ⏰ 2:00 PM: State Library Victoria—head to the 6th floor for symmetrical shots + frame-within-frame portraits. ⏰ 3:00 PM: Shoot the "Southern Hemisphere’s prettiest McDonald’s" (Jay Chou’s iconic spot!). ⏰ 5:30 PM: St Kilda Pier—free penguin viewing at the rocky end of the boardwalk (binoculars help!). ‼️ Pro Tips 🚗 Why Private Transport? Saves time between far-flung spots. Customize your itinerary freely. Safely store gear/luggage. 🎫 Key Bookings: Puffing Billy tickets 1 week ahead. 📸 Gear: 12-24mm (landscapes/architecture). 70-200mm (coastal close-ups/penguins). 🧥 Pack Smart: Seasons flip—bring layers even in summer! #HiddenMelbourne #PhotographyHacks #TravelLikeALocal