Tasmania is one of those places where it's hard to take a bad photo. Whether you're a beginner or a well-seasoned photographer, taking photos of the Island of Inspiration has got to be one of the best things to do in Tassie.
From incredible coastlines to pristine snow-capped mountains, there are so many must-see places in Tasmania, and Hobart's photography potential is undeniably a drawcard for photographers.
If you've been thinking about a visit to Tasmania, it's time to do just that — travel-friendly camera in tow. Here's our photographer's guide to Tasmania, covering the best landscape photography hot spots and all the gear you'll need to get the shot.
Table of contents
- What sort of photographs can I take in Tasmania?
- What gear do I need?
- Essential items to pack
- Where to go for the best photography spots
What sort of photographs can I take in Tasmania?
Tasmania is a haven for landscape photographers. The climate is cooler than the rest of Australia, with more frequent rainfall, resulting in lush, dense environments that contrast sharply with the often barren mainland.
The flora that results from this climate makes it a wonderful habitat for a huge range of native fauna, so wildlife photographers will really enjoy all the animals popping up in their frames. Be on the lookout for echidnas, wombats, kangaroos, and eagles, as well as animals unique to Tasmania such as the Tasmanian Devil.
What gear do I need?
This will largely depend on the kind of photography you're into. To maximise image quality, we always recommend a camera with a large image sensor, such as a DSLR or mirrorless camera. Both are great, but for Tasmania photography, mirrorless cameras have a slight advantage as they're lighter and more portable. As the climate can be quite wet, weather-resistant camera gear is also recommended.
Your lens choice will depend on the results you're after. For landscapes, wide-angle lenses are generally considered essential. If you're photographing Tasmania's wildlife, a telephoto lens is your best option — these allow you to get much closer to the action without scaring animals away.
Essential items to pack
- A tripod — Keeps your shots free from blur and helps you compose with greater accuracy. There's a wide range of travel-friendly options available.
- A camera bag — Keep your gear safe at all times. Given Tasmania's wetter climate, a bag with rain protection is the best option.
- ND filters — Tasmania's waterfalls are full and flowing year-round. An ND filter helps you soften the movement of water without overexposing your shots.
- Spare batteries and memory cards — Don't miss a shot by running out of power or storage.
While not essential, a portable travel drone is a great addition — aerial photography in Tasmania is guaranteed to be breathtaking, and you'll get a unique perspective on the stunning scenery.
Where to go for the best photography spots
You can pretty much head anywhere in Tasmania and find a sensational view. If you're short on time, here are the spots we recommend:
- Wineglass Bay — Crystal-clear blue water and white sands. One of Tasmania's most photographed views and a must-visit for any landscape photographer.
- Bay of Fires — A pristine beach backdrop combined with incredibly unique orange boulders. As cool as the name suggests.
- Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary — Get up close with native wildlife, perfect for aspiring wildlife photographers.
- Port Arthur — A heritage-listed site with plenty of man-made structures to photograph alongside lush greenery. Guided tours offer a fascinating insight into Australia's history.
- The Tarkine — A relatively untouched national park home to various rare native species — a brilliant opportunity to capture truly unique images.
Tasmania is a beautiful destination, especially for photographers. Before your trip, shop all the camera gear online or pop into your closest Ted's Cameras store for expert advice from our team.