There's something about a Surf Coast wedding. Salt in the air. Big skies. That golden late-afternoon light coming off the water.
I'm Mike, a wedding photographer based just up the road in Geelong. I've been photographing weddings along this stretch of coast since 2018, from clifftop ceremonies in Torquay to barn celebrations tucked into the hills at Bellbrae.
The coast does half the work for me. My job is to capture you actually enjoying it, not standing stiffly in front of it.
No awkward posing. No performing for the camera. Just you two, your people, and a day that feels like yours.
The light, mainly. The coast gets this soft, golden quality in the late afternoon that you just don't get inland. Time your portraits right and the whole world glows.
But it's also the variety. Within twenty minutes of Torquay you've got beaches, bushland, farmland and clifftops. Whatever your day looks like, there's a backdrop that fits.
And because I'm local, I know where the wind hides, where the light lands, and which spots are five minutes from your venue instead of forty. That local knowledge buys you more time at your own reception, which is where the best photos happen anyway.
RACV Torquay Resort is one of my favourite spots on the coast. Coastal views, that resort polish, and plenty of good light to work with.
Bellbrae Harvest is another favourite. All greenery and stillness, just minutes from the beach.
Beyond those, the Surf Coast is full of brilliant spots. Beach ceremonies at Anglesea and Point Roadknight. Pub receptions in Aireys Inlet. Lorne weddings where the Otways meet the sea. Backyard celebrations on bush blocks in Bells Beach and Jan Juc.
If your venue's on the coast, chances are I've shot there or somewhere very close.
LOVE NOTE FROM Brydie + James
"He took time to get to know James and I on a deeper level so that on the day he nailed the type of photos we were after. He made the day so enjoyable and was a sense of calm when times got a little stressful. The photos are absolutely beautiful.
We will be recommending Mike to everyone we can possibly think of.
Thanks Mike, highly recommend!"
An amazing human and an even better photographer
LOVE NOTE FROM Laura + Tom
"From start to finish, he was relaxed, fun, and an absolute joy to have around on our big day. He has an incredible ability to capture moments in a way that feels natural and effortless. During the ceremony, he took stunning shots without us even noticing he was there (in the best way possible!). Our family and friends have not stopped raving about how friendly and great he was - especially when we had a sneak peak few photos to show the day after the wedding!
We can’t recommend Mike enough!"
Mike was absolutely epic!
LOVE NOTE FROM Ellen + Josh
"We're extremely grateful for how organised he was, not only on the day but in the lead-up helping us plan the logistics and timings when we had no idea what we were doing. He's an easygoing and lovely bloke and was particularly good at getting photos of the kids. He helped ease our nerves and made sure the day ran smoothly and we can't thank him enough."
He helped ease our nerves and made sure the day ran smoothly
LOVE NOTE FROM Elisabeth + Jan
"... Also clearly experienced with knowing which range of images to capture and how to set them up perfectly, including guiding you to the best poses in a fun and easygoing way. Mike was so supportive and helpful just in general on the day and his energetic, warm, fun and friendly personality also made us feel super comfortable - which really helped with the photos as well as contributing to the happy celebratory vibe on our special day!
Thanks Mike, highly recommend!"
He is truly talented and also clearly experienced
Yep, I shoot all over. Geelong, the Surf Coast, the Bellarine, and right across Victoria. Travel within 100km of Geelong is included with seven and nine hour coverage, and 50km with the four hour option. Heading further afield? Just mention it in your enquiry and I'll sort the details.
Absolutely. I offer planning support and casual catch-ups so everything feels clear and relaxed ahead of time. For four hour bookings, we'll catch up over Zoom or phone.
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