A FRESH LENS: Master the art of capturing Port Douglas’ magical sunset hues

BUSINESS FEATURE

Jamie Jansen

Journalist

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Port Douglas’ photogenic locations offer an ideal starting point for beginner photographers. Picture: Tracey Jones Photography

A favourite activity in Port Douglas involves witnessing the captivating sunset at Rex Smeal Park, where the Coral Sea unfolds before you and the rainforest-clad mountains provide a picturesque backdrop. But why just watch when capturing this natural display can make it even more memorable?

A new unique offering has entered the Port Douglas scene, as local photography expert Tracey Jones introduces sunset photography walking tours. 

Taking place every Sunday and spanning three hours, these tours invite up to ten participants to capture the town's unique beauty and allure through their lenses, crafting photographs to be cherished for a lifetime.

Worried about lacking camera expertise? Worry not, as no prior photography experience is needed; beginners are warmly welcomed. Plus, you don't need a camera, your phone works perfectly fine too.

Sneak peak of the tour

Intrigued? Read on for a sneak peek of the tour.

Setting off from the iconic Sugar Wharf, our adventure begins with a briefing followed by 30 minutes of exploration. Here we capture the beauty of the building, inlet, and picturesque views. 

Next stop: the beach behind the Wharf and St Mary’s by the Sea for more shots, including breathtaking Sugar Wharf backdrops. 

Capping it all off is the grand finale at Rex Smeal Park, where an hour of fun allows us to seize a mesmerising sunset, complete with boats arriving at the scene.

But this tour offers more than enhancing your photography knowledge; Tracey introduces you to Port Douglas' captivating history. 

As she guides you through iconic and picturesque locations, you'll uncover historical sites and embrace the local culture. 

Throughout the journey, Tracey provides not only extensive one-on-one photography guidance but also enriches the experience with abundant historical and cultural insights about the locations you visit.

The magic of Port Douglas

According to Tracey, Port Douglas offers an ideal starting point for beginner photographers. 

“Its simplicity and stunning sunsets, easily captured with basic skills, make it perfect,” she said. “And don't forget the photogenic locations, practically designed for ‘Instagrammable’ shots.”

Tracey's profound connection with nature is at the heart of her own photography journey, which started as an underwater photographer in Thailand and then expanded to the Great Barrier Reef.

“I've always loved nature and being creative, and photography combines both passions,” she explained. “My photography centres around nature, capturing landscapes, wildlife, and sunsets, all subjects that deeply fascinate me.

“Sharing my expertise through teaching photography brings me joy, especially when I witness my students understanding concepts and experiencing those satisfying 'aha' moments.”

Photography adventure awaits

This sentiment is reflected in the tour, which is packed with valuable photography insights and offers essential techniques made easily accessible through one-on-one guidance.

Tracey ensures you harness your camera's complete capabilities, sharing tips and tricks on ideal positioning and achieving that flawless shot.

In addition, she leads you through the diverse phases of sunset lighting, from the brightness of daylight, through the warmth of the Golden hour, to the cooler shades of the post-sunset blue hour.

“Cloudy weather won't hinder the tour,” Tracey assured. Even on overcast days, creativity blooms with long exposure shots and dynamic captures, like waves crashing on rocks. 

“Overcast days offer diverse photography opportunities, especially for subjects like flowers, as they minimise reflections on petals and other surfaces,” Tracey said. “Rest assured, there's always potential for great shots, even without a clear sunset.”

For more information about the tour, click here.

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